Domestic Adoption
Learn more about domestic adoption networking
While waiting for a domestic placement can be an anxious process for some, nothing puts adoptive parents in the driver’s seat like a concept known as Adoption Networking. This process, which frequently decreases waiting time for a child and reduces costs for adoptive parents, has been taught to families by AAI since its inception—and has brought AAI to number one in the state for infant adoption. Sound intriguing? Keep reading.
What is Adoption Networking?
Simply defined, “Adoption Networking” is the activities employed by prospective adopting couples to reach adoption-minded birth parents. While keeping their name on a list of couples seeking birth mothers, some parents simultaneously take a more active approach, spreading the word that they are interested in domestic placement. Whether by telling everyone they know or sending emails of their profile, posting their profile on community message boards or using classified advertising, these couples choose a firsthand approach to complement their adoption decision. Perhaps most importantly, families can network however they choose and to whatever degree they feel comfortable with.
Why Try Adoption Networking?
In a culture that no longer looks down upon single parenthood, the number of women experiencing unplanned pregnancies in the U.S. who choose adoption is decreasing. For those who do choose adoption, some decide to seek out prospective adopting parents among family and friends, rather than use a professional agency. Networking can help prospective adoptive families make connections with these women. After a birth mother is found by adoptive parents, AAI provides the counseling, prepares hospital plans, and completes the legal work required. Over the past 10 years, 15-20% of AAI couples who have adopted domestically have successfully done so through Adoption Networking. As an added bonus, couples who successfully find a birth mother through networking benefit from a reduction of $5,400 on their adoption costs.
Who Chooses Adoption Networking?
While the benefits of Adoption Networking are numerous, the choice may not be the right one for all couples. Most often, couples who benefit most from this process are those who desire an open adoption, and who are comfortable with speaking directly to the birth mother or birth parents (as opposed to having AAI as an intermediary). Families who choose Adoption Networking often have a closer personal relationship and stronger ties to the child’s birth mother.
How Can I Get Started with Adoption Networking?
Begin by viewing some of the profiles available on AAI’s web site. Take note of how much information is included, and how much information you would be comfortable with providing during your quest.
Any family completing their home study through AAI will benefit from learning successful methods of Adoption Networking through their home study process and be able to rely on the expert advice of many staff members and an agency specializing in privately arranged adoptions.
More Information
For more information on how to network and how it can work for you, please call us today at 616.667.0677.
