When you finally make the decision to expand your family through adoption it’s exciting! However, although you may feel ready to launch yourself into the process right away, try and resist the urge to let your excitement carry you away and take your time selecting an adoption agency. Remember, your adoption agency will be your partner throughout the adoption process (and possibly beyond!), so it’s important to find an agency that meets your needs and is truly right for you.
Finding potential adoption agencies to investigate is easy. A quick google search will pull up TONS of agencies in your local area or you can use the National Foster Care & Adoption Directory to find a list of all of the adoption agencies and resources available in your state. Remember though, not all agencies are created equal and not every adoption agency will be able to meet your unique needs. Read our tips below for sorting through potential organizations to find the adoption agency that’s right for you:
What Do I Want? – Before you start your search, figure out what you want. Are you interested in domestic adoption or international? Are you open to adopting sibling pairs? Were you looking to adopt newborns only or are you open to different age groups? Understanding what your needs are will help you narrow down agencies and enable you to ask specific questions to ensure an agency will be able to meet your needs.Know The Law – Whether you are adopting domestically or internationally, make sure you understand the laws around adoption. When you’re looking at agencies across the United States, keep in mind that adoption is regulated by state law and be sure to check your state’s statutes before you start researching adoption agencies.
Do your homework! When you’re looking for an adoption agency do as much research as you can on your own before you decide to call them for more information. Reputable agencies should have a website with plenty of information about the services they offer! Here are a few things to look out for while doing your research:
Ask Questions – Once you’ve narrowed down your choice of adoption agencies it’s time to call them and see what they’re like in real life! Ask them as many questions as you can and track all of their answers carefully. A good adoption agency will be one that you trust and that is honest with you about your adoption options and is fully transparent when providing estimates of the timetables and fees involved. The best adoption agencies will be committed to honesty, transparency and open communication from your first phone call until the adoption is finalized.Ask for References – A good adoption agency should be able to refer you to other parents who have adopted with them so that you can talk to someone who’s already been through the process. Once you’ve got a few references to call, set up a time to talk with each of them about their experience adopting through the agency.Talk With Staff – Phone calls are great, but an in-person visit should be a part of your interview process for any agency you’re seriously considering. See if you can set up a time to meet with someone 1-on-1 or, if they offer it, attend an adoption information/orientation session.
Choosing an adoption agency is a critical part of the adoption process, so take your time to ensure you are making a smart, fully informed decision. As eager as you are to get started on your adoption journey, definitely don’t jump at the first agency that makes pie-in-the-sky promises or guarantees an expedited adoption. By doing your homework and being patient you’ll ensure that you start the adoption process on the right foot, with an agency that’s fully committed to doing what’s best for you and your family.
Have more questions about adoption? Get more information about adoption and learn about Child Crisis Arizona'sAdoption Services by visiting our website, calling us directly at 480.834.9424 or attending one of our upcoming adoption orientation sessions!
