Laura-Valentine Lock is a college freshman and activist who has rasied tens of thousands of dollars to make adoption possible for vulnerable children, especially those abandoned or at risk of abandonment. In honor of National Adoption Month (November), we spoke about her ministry.

1) When did you first realize you were adopted by your adoptive parents?

Growing up I always knew I was adopted; my parents didn't keep that a secret from me. I knew I was different. But I truly didn't get the idea of being abandoned or adopted until I was in middle school.

2) Can you describe how you felt on that first mission trip when you realized not all orphaned children had the opportunity for a loving family as you have had?

When I went on my first missions trip with my high school to Mukono, Uganda we worked at an orphanage and it shocked me. I saw firsthand the cruel existence that these children face.

I felt pain and guilt. I really questioned, "Why me? Why was I chosen?” ...