Denise Hobbs                                                              Sandra Roberts

   
                                Why Adopt?
  Adopting a child is a wonderful way to add to your family. There are a lot of legal requirements for this important process. The Center for Family Development can help families meet the legal requirements of the Adoptive Home Study. We work with the families in making adoption a smooth transition by providing the formal assessment of the home and family. We meet with the family to determine the success of parent/child bonding and blending the dynamics of the new family.

FAQ

How do I begin the adoption process?
 The first step is to educate yourself about adoption and decide what kind of child you are interested in. Fill out an application with a licensed child placing agency like The Center For Family Development. The next step is the home study process.

What is a home study?
 A home study is a lengthy process that includes information about your background, medical, financial, and housing situation. Federal law requires that a criminal background and fingerprint record check be completed. A social worker experienced in the adoptive process will help you through the home study. It is estimated it will take about 2-3 months to complete the home study.

Do I have to attend any classes?
 Adoption and parenting classes are offered to explain the special psychological and bonding issues unique to adoption.

How much does it cost?
 The cost can vary depending on the income and necessary services. The federal tax credit makes adoption more affordable than in the past. Please call the Center for Family Development for a full schedule and to discuss your questions.

How long will it be before I will be selected for placement of a child?
 The time it takes varies depending on the birthmother's criteria for her child. The Center for Family Development offers the birthmother input into the selection process. Typically between one and two years average.

What would adoption mean for me?
 Adoption is the act of giving up your parental rights to your child by choosing to place your child in the lifelong care of another family.

How much does it cost?
 Adoption does not cost anything for birthparents. All legal fees and agency services are free.

Will I be able to choose the adoptive family?
 The Center for Family Development has approved adoptive families you may choose for your baby. You will be asked the characteristics that you would like the adoptive family to possess. Our adoption counselors will then select several family profiles from which you may choose.

Will my information remain confidential?
 The amount of information exchanged between you and the adoptive families is determined by the type of adoption you choose. The three main types of adoption are: Open-Adoption, Semi-Open, and Closed-Adoption.

What services does The Center for Family Development offer to birthmothers?
 A counselor will be available to you to aid in finding a personalized adoption plan to meet your specific needs. The counselor will provide vocational and career guidance. Transportation and 24-hour emergency access to your counselor is available.

What adoptive parents say about the Center for Family Development...

 "The adoption counselor made us feel comfortable. The counselor was knowledgeable, nonjudgmental and friendly. I really liked the fact that the counselors have personally adopted children."  David and Brenda

 "Our adoption was an amazing journey. The professional  counselors were wonderful to talk with. They not only understood the process, they had experienced it themselves"     The Frazier's

What birthmothers say about the Center for Family Development...

 "I like the fact that you give me the information and I make the decisions.  My counselor is easy to talk with, she really listens to me." Laura

 "I like the way you really respect and understand my decision to put my baby up for adoption. My counselor supports me"  Yolonda