7 Ways You Can Volunteer in Adoption

Agencies often are in need of volunteers. Many agencies are not-for-profit or trying to limit the overhead costs passed on to adoptive families, so volunteers play a vital role in that circle. Whether it be filing paperwork, responding to emails, answering the phone, assembling packets, guest writing blogs, or helping with events, volunteers are needed at most agencies.

You don’t have to be a foster parent to help in the foster care program. Consider offering your services in professional areas that can cut costs for them. Photographing waiting children or foster families is one way to give back. Being a foster buddy or donating items that foster families need for quick placements are other options. Foster programs often hold events that need volunteers to help make them successful. Contact your local family services today!

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While orphanages are a thing of the past in the US, there are still some group homes with therapy as a focus as well as many, many orphanages internationally. You may not be able to travel to the international orphanages, but you can volunteer at local group homes or contact orphanages to see what you can do to help. It may be fundraising, donating items the children need, or just advocacy and awareness.

Do you have a passion for adoption and the willingness to share your story? You can blog, write a book, or be a public speaker. Whether it’s attending small groups to share your adoption story, being on an educational panel, or speaking to large groups, awareness is a key component to changing how adoption is viewed.

Adoption is far from flawless. How can you see to it that the ethics we want to see are passed on into laws? By helping create that change! If you feel like you can be in an educational or lobbying role, then make yourself heard. Get involved with state and national policy makers. Visit local doctors or agencies and be the change!

If you are considering opening your home to children in need, there are many options to help. Whether you are a long-term foster parent, an interim care provider, or interested in fostering to adopt, help is needed to provide stable, loving homes to children. You will likely need some training, background checks, and a home study, but don’t let that deter you from making a difference!