GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Nov. 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Adoption Journey Project, New Rhythm and Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO) announced plans for the first ever adoption awareness Google+ Hangout concert to be broadcast live on YouTube.  On Sunday, 7pm EST (4pm PST) November 18, the hour long web event will feature songwriter and lead singer of the Jason Yost Band, performing adoption themed songs as a part of the event. Concert organizers chose to broadcast the concert live over the Internet during National Adoption Month, officially designated by The White House, because of the intersection of harnessing a social media platform and potential audience exposure to new audiences on YouTube.

"We're excited because of the movement we're seeing in using music to further adoption awareness.  It's wonderful seeing how this event will help share the critical needs of over 100,000 children in need of a loving family in this country right now," said Marc Andreas, Vice-President of Client Marketing at Bethany Christian Services, the nation's largest adoption agency.  There are roughly 420,000 children in the foster system in the U.S. today, with nearly 120,000 waiting to be adopted. Globally, an estimated 18.3 million children have lost both parents.

During the concert, viewers will also hear from several adoption movement advocates including: Mark Batterson - Lead pastor of National Community Church, Ken Coleman of The Ken Coleman Show and Catalyst Conferences, Johnny Carr - National Director of Church Partnerships for Bethany Christian Services, Jedd Medefind, President of CAFO and New Rhythm Co-founder and CEO Shelly Yost.

"What's exciting about the Adoption Awareness Live Google+ Hangout Concert is that people can host a meaningful yet entertaining evening with friends simply by inviting them over and tuning in together.  Hopefully it can be the start of some interesting conversations," said Jason Yost, who will lead the live music concert.

All audience members who attend the live concert will be offered complimentary downloads of two complete music albums: "Rescue Me" from the Jason Yost Band and "Adoption Is Everywhere" compilation published by The Adoption Journey Project.  The free music download page is available at: www.adoptionjourney.org//freemusicoffer

Details of the Adoption Awareness Google+ Hangout On Air Live YouTube Concert
WHEN: Sunday November 18, 7pm Eastern / 4pm Pacific
Pre-registration and free concert details: http://www.adoptionjourney.org/livehangout

ABOUT THE ADOPTIONJOURNEY.ORG PROJECT
The Adoption Journey Project is a collective of organizations who want to break down the barriers to adoption - Bethany Christian Services, Lifesong for Orphans, and Lifeline Children's Services. The goal is to foster honest conversations about the adoption process, offer comprehensive yet easily accessible information about domestic and international adoption, and connect those who have already adopted with those who are thinking about it. Visit http://www.AdoptionJourney.org or follow on Twitter:@AdoptJourney

ABOUT NEW RHYTHM PROJECT
New Rhythm Project is a non-profit organization that works to educate, communicate, and facilitate local communities to care for orphaned and abused children across the globe. The organization is a collaboration of professionals, specialists, & thinkers who are passionate about creating & shaping opportunities for individuals & families to care for orphaned and vulnerable children. Visit http://www.newrhythm.org/ or follow on Twitter: @new_rhythm

ABOUT CHRISTIAN ALLIANCE FOR ORPHANS
The Christian Alliance for Orphans unites more than 100 respected Christian organizations and a national network of churches. Working together, the joint initiatives inspire, equip and connect Christians to reflect God's heart in caring for orphans in adoption, foster care and global orphan care initiatives. Visit http://www.christianalliancefororphans.org/ or follow on Twitter: @OrphanAlliance

Media inquiries: Kenny Jahng, kjahng@fivestone.com [973.500.8536]

SOURCE AdoptionJourney.org / Bethany Christian Services