A FEW WORDS
FROM MOM & DAD

“We're Ron and Valarie Lemco, Drew's parents, and Jun's in-laws. Drew's kindness and devotion to his relationships have stood out since he was young. He has shown us that family transcends blood ties, as he treats his lifelong friends as if they were part of the family, even taking on the role of an uncle to their children.

As a teacher, Drew will go to the ends of the earth for the children in his care. When his school refused to pay for art docents in his class, he invited me to teach art. Watching Drew work with his students, I was so proud seeing how he genuinely cared for his students. Drew puts so much into connecting with the kids and he knows art offers opportunities for them to express themselves on their own level. He cared enough to bring this to them when the school couldn’t.

Drew and Jun make an exceptional team and offer an extraordinary foundation for their child's growth. Their loving nature, amazing listening skills, and genuine interest in others' perspectives are qualities that are sure to enrich their child's life. In our time with Jun, he's proven to be a kind, generous person. He's supported us in learning more about our finances, reaching out to every family member, driven by his passion to help each of us thrive. Each year we rent a ‘Christmas Cabin’, where we play games, sing karaoke, and eat great food for three days. Throughout that time, Jun can be found engaging in deep and heartfelt conversations with each family member. It was in one of these moments that he asked for Drew's hand in marriage, a gesture that touched me deeply.

Family togetherness is a value we hold near to our hearts. I see this in the way Drew and Jun reach out to their nieces and nephew and make genuine connections. They will be wonderful and caring parents and we can’t wait to meet our new grandchild! Spending time with our grandkids and watching them grow is our greatest joy. We love to teach them about gardening and spiders and worms in the yard! We pick blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries from our garden. We keep a special watering can just for grandkids to water the plants and feel a sense of accomplishment when they enjoy those berries.

Having grandkids makes us better people. We get to unconditionally love these little ones, spoil them as grandparents and then send them home! They are the truest joy in our lives, and we promise to always create a safe and loving environment for them.

Jun is already an amazing father, and we believe Drew was born to be a father. We are so excited to see them as parents, and singing “You are my sunshine’ to our newest grandbaby!”

A FEW WORDS FROM PASTOR GAIL

“My name is Rev. Gail Song Bantum and I am Jun and Drew’s pastor at the church they are actively involved in. 

I have know both of them as glass half-full people. Drew carries a deeply empathetic, nurturing, and constructive posture both toward people and situations. He is level headed when faced with challenging unknowns and seems to always figure out a way forward. I believe this quality makes him a trusted partner, friend, son, brother, school teacher, and one of our beloved and consistent volunteers with the kids at the church. 

Jun is one of the most encouraging people, with an “anything is possible” kind of mindset I’ve ever seen. He is an entrepreneur and creative at heart, passionate about giving back and making possible for others what is needed to bridge a gap he senses. I was there when he launched a new non-profit organization to empower queer youth of faith who were on the margins, looking for places to belong. I’m confident his care and advocacy for young people emerges from his own journey of seeking belonging, as well as being a dad already to two beautiful young adult children. 

Being a parent myself to three beautiful multiracial adult children, I know parenting is not easy. I not only see my role as their pastor but as a friend who provides love and care for them in practical ways. 

I believe they will be compassionate, fun loving, and wise parents because of the many life experiences they hold together, alongside the value of wholeness and flourishing they both embody and hope for in the world. “

A FEW WORDS FROM MEGHAN

“My name is Meghan Opbroek and I am one of Drew and Jun’s closest friends.

Drew has been my best friend and confidant for nearly 20 years. Drew is truly an extraordinary individual, radiating kindness, warmth, humor, and compassion. We met in our early twenties and I am proud to say that he has profoundly shaped my life. Drew's caring nature extends far and wide. He's not only an exceptional listener but also an unwavering supporter. His intelligence and sense of humor are unparalleled, and he possesses a unique gift for instilling belief in others, even when they doubt themselves. Drew serves as an inspiration, encouraging people to reach for their dreams and realize their full potential. I am immeasurably enriched by having him as my closest friend.

Jun is an exceptional person in his own right. I had the pleasure of meeting Jun through Drew six years ago. Jun dedicates his time and energy to empowering and uplifting others. He exudes intelligence, humor, and charisma, which naturally draws people toward him. Being in Jun's company is an uplifting experience, as he genuinely listens and cares deeply for those in his life. 

Together, Drew and Jun form an incredible couple who are destined to be exceptional parents together. Witnessing their love for each other is a heartwarming experience. Their communication and unwavering support for each other's dreams are a testament to their beautiful partnership. Both Drew and Jun already invest a considerable amount of their energy in supporting youth through their work, church, philanthropy, and volunteer work. They embody all the qualities one would desire in parents—loving, honesty, reliability, and authenticity. Family holds immense significance for them.

Moreover, Drew and Jun know how to have fun! From family karaoke sessions to board game nights, and stand-up comedy, their lives are a constant source of laughter and joy. I cannot stress this enough. I cherish the moments spent at their home, with Jun playing the piano and singing, and Drew cooking his newest dish. Their lives are a testament to warmth and happiness.

As their future "Auntie Meghan," I am thrilled at the prospect of forging a close relationship with their child and supporting them in their journey of parenthood. I regularly travel from Oregon to visit them, and most holidays are spent in their loving company. I am eagerly anticipating the expansion of their family, which, in turn, will expand my own.“

A FEW WORDS
FROM JOHN

“As future uncle and auntie to their new little one, my fiance and I wholeheartedly recommend Jun and Drew as adoptive parents.

I have the honor of being Jun’s best friend. Having known Jun for over fifteen years and Drew for more than five, I have witnessed their remarkable journey from early romance to a loving marriage. Their relationship is a testament to mutual respect, love, and support, making their home a sanctuary of peace and happiness.

Jun and Drew are truly exemplary people. Jun's dedication to social good through his involvement with many non-profits, and Drew's experience in education demonstrate their deep commitment to nurturing and uplifting others. Their stable, financially secure environment, and emotional maturity make them ideally suited for parenting.

Observing Jun with his daughters has always been inspiring. His patience, adaptability, and genuine love and care for his children are obvious.

In conclusion, Jun and Drew are outstanding candidates for adoption. Their loving home, combined with their dedication to the well-being of children, assures me that any child would thrive under their care.”