Adoption Agency?

Question

My husband and I are just starting the adoption process. We know that we want a domestic adoption, and are open to race/ethnicity as well as open/semi-open/closed adoption processes. We have looked into several different agencies, but many seem to have very wonderful attributes. How do we know which agency to go with?

Answer 1

I would suggest going directly through DHS.  There are lots of kids in foster care who need homes, and it's free to adopt through the state.  Good luck!

Answer 2

I think you would have to go with a referral if you have one.  I adopted and loved the agency.  Here is there website.

www.adoptionhelp.org

Answer 3

Look into an agency that is local to you.  Interview parents who have adopted though them for their perspective, and birth parents who have placed with them for theirs.

Check with DHS and the courts for complaints filed against them.  Stay away from any agency that wants to be the post placement go-between  between you and your child's mother/parents.  You should be able to contact them directly, and they should be able to do the same.

Have a friend contact them as a prospective birthparent, and see how she / they are treated.

Above all, if you can in your hearts commit to a fully open adoption, DO IT.  Our experience has had some rough spots like any relationship, but for the most part, it's been wonderful, DESPITE our agency.  Our son is going on ten, and I wouldn't have a closed adoption for the world.

Answer 4

I chose international adoption after trying so long with domestic adoption.  The chances that the parent could actually go back to court and re-establish their rights as the birth parent ANd WIN are so great and in their favor, that I couldnt bare the thought of it.  Please be careful in your decision.  Please do your legal homework first.  Dont make an emotional closed decision because you want a child fast.  The worst thing I can imagine in loosing your child afterwards.

Answer 5

Do your research.  Check out adoption boards where it is ok to discuss agencies.  You need to go with an agency that other aparents have had good experiences with - and there are some very unethical and bad agencies out there.  Ask what their average wait time is.  How much do they require up front? How much at match? How much of the $$ is at risk if the match fails.

Research, research research.

Good luck.