[kimJohn]

We are new to this forum and wondered if anyone could recommend any agency. We are looking to adopt a caucasian infant. Any agency we should avoid? Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
If you want to contact us directly our email is:
jlmksu1@aol.com

[Linny]

I would like to post the same thing to you, as I posted on another forum:

Do not deal with agencies that ask for large amounts of money up front, and that do not refund that money in total should the expectant parents choose to parent, and the adoption falls through. These agencies are harder to find---it's true. But, agencies CAN be found that charge only a few hundred dollars for applications, and will NOT require the balance of money until the placement is secure.

We have adopted six times.....and are waiting for our seventh (Lord willing). I feel I have learned more in this last 'waiting period' than I ever have before! One of the biggest, is realizing that more and more agenices are asking for INCREDIBLE amounts of monies......that couples will LOSE, if the adoption does not go through. To me, this is outrageous. I realize agencies have their overhead, etc........but to charge hundreds of dollars 'at match'....before the expectant lady even delivers, is very, very risky, indeed....if you don't have the money to lose. And yes, there ARE agencies that don't do business in this matter.


Another suggestion......be VERY CAREFUL when dealing with facilitators (if they are even legal in your state). There are some that are honest.....but there are a lot that do little networking and will charge you huge fees for work you might have done yourself. There are two referral services I suspect are reputable---just from reading about them on boards for the last two years....but here again.....be sure this avenue can be done within your state.

Check with the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys. Click on your state to find members in your state and members in nearby states. Some do a lot of networking between other attorneys and agencies and charge very minimally for this. Others will charge an arm and leg to do so. You will have to call them and ask these questions; but don't be discouraged if the first ones you call are outlandish.

Do not be fooled by agenices/ attorneys/ facilitators, referrals who will tell you that 'even though the costs are substantial, you can get most of the money back from the adoption tax credit'. This is poor justification for them charging huge prices! Some people are not able to take that tax credit......it is NOT an automatic thing and depends on the individual income.


I hope I have helped in some way. Please feel free to private message me if I can be of any further help.

Sincerely,

Linny