Monday, November 18, 2013

National Adoption Month

“Foster kids are in the system because something happened in their life that wasn't supposed to…(foster care) has an assumption built in that it is temporary…(adoption tells kids) ‘you matter here; I’m yours and you’re mine.’” --Bill Johnson, Ft. Wayne, Indiana (Bill and Camilla Johnson are the proud parents of three daughters ages 9, 13 and 15.) (Quoted on the Indiana Department of Child Services site)

The month of November is celebrated nationally as National Adoption Month.  This month serves as an excellent time to raise awareness of an issue and need that arguably is an all-year need.  Adoption covers many areas, including step-parent adoptions, but also foster parent adoptions.  Both are equally important, but it is important that before you do make that decision to adopt, it is best to educate yourself as to the requirements of adoption in Indiana.  Adoption requires a preparation process, including training, background checks, a home study and more.  After completing the preparation, individuals must be considered as potential pre-adoptive placements for waiting children.  They are selected based on characteristics that make them a good match for the child and the child's needs.  You can begin the preparation process by calling 1-888-25-ADOPT.

It should be noted that Indiana residents must also have a recommendations from the Department of Child Services Special Needs Adoption Program (SNAP) before being considered as potential placement for a child.

This month also raises awareness of those children who can be difficult to place in permanent placements, including sibling groups, adolescent and teenager children, and special needs children.

Adopt Us Kids has an ongoing list of children and sibling groups who are available and waiting to find forever families.  You will find photos, as well as information about their interests, strengths and hobbies, and you are encouraged to submit an inquiry if you feel drawn to a specific child or sibling group.


For more information, also visit the Indiana Foster care and Adoption Association



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