How The Adoption Process Works

Central to a successful adoption is creating an "adoption plan." Begin by having an open, totally honest, soul-searching discussion with your mate. Discuss your reasons for wanting to adopt. Talk about how adopting a child will impact your lifestyle. Talk about your expectations for the child. Attend an adoption seminar to learn the basics about adoption. Keep notes and ask questions. Examine your financial picture and discuss an adoption budget with your mate.

Once you have made the decision to adopt, your next step is to select an adoption provider. An agency like the Adoption Alliance can provide guidance, information, and support throughout the adoption process. An agency can also help you to better focus your efforts, which can conserve resources such as time, patience, and money in the long run.

The Adoption Alliance works directly with adoptive parents to guide them through the multiple steps in adoption. The Adoption Alliance provides:

• Adoption education and planning assistance
• Homestudy service or referral
• Assistance locating a birth mother and working with her throughout her pregnancy
• Counseling
• Coordination of necessary legal services
• Post-placement services