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We are just starting our adoption process to build our family thru domestic infant adoption and truly couldn't be more confused. So far I have read books, gone to informational meetings, spoke on the phone with agencies, and looked at online websites. Much of what I have gathered has been informative and very much helpful - but at the same time I keep getting the gut instinct that some of it may be too good to be true.
- Where do you start?
- Are you better off using a small local agency in your community or a more national agency?
- How can you tell if their quotes on wait times, matches, etc.. are accurate. What specific questions should you ask in order to get the most accurate information?
Sorry to post such a lengthy post. I am equally excited as I am overwhelmed by the process. I am located in Ohio if anyone has experience with an agency in that area or nationally that they would recommennd or not, please PM me and a brief reason why. Thanks so much! :thanks:
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I am also seriously considering domestic adoption after completing an international adoption 2 years ago. I am also full of questions and it would be good to see some answers to your questions. I am using an agency that has been around for about 25 years and is reputable. I will be meeting with them to discuss my options very soon. follow your gut instincts if they seem to be promising you the world with definitive timelines etc...
there are no absolutes in adoption.
good luck,
zinnia
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We wanted to keep as many options open as possible when we started the process, so while we had our homestudy done through a small local agency, we were going to contract with a more national agency, that is, one who had offices in 4 or 5 states. Also we were networking on our own (profiles to ob/gyns, etc). By chance, our baby came through the local agency! So, we had ties to them and the national agency, which increased our chances. We are starting the process again for our second child, and have contracted with the local agency only this time, but are still networking on our own. In my opinion, an agency shouldn't try to give a timeframe for domestic placement. Our agency typically works with only 10 families at a time, and told us there was no way to estimate. However, we finished our paperwork in Dec of 2007 and brought our son home in March of 08, so you just never know. You also never know when your profile will be viewed by a birthmom who likes you, or what will make her like you. The first birthmom we met liked us because we are outdoorsy like she is, but chose a family because the mom reminded her of her aunt... I'll pm you with the "national" agency's info. I don't know what Ohio's laws are like; I'm in NY, so my out of state choices were limited.Good luck!Lynn