[JaneV]

Hi all,

My husband and I are beginning the process of finding a domestic adoption agency. We're not sure if we should pick a large one because they would have more experience and more potential birth mothers or if a small (local?) agency would be easier to work with.

Does anyone have any thoughts on this? Also, is it common to sign with two agencies simultaneously? Thanks in advance. Feel free to PM me with any advice!

[Disneycrazed]

I don't know if big or small is as important as how good the agency is and how many babies they place each year.
I would pick a few good agencies to look into and ask for people's opinions on them. Remember though that theyneed to PM you. it is against forum rules to discuss them on the boards. Good luck!!!!

[Stormster]

Hi Jane. We have been trying to figure out the same thing. We are currently working with a consultant who helps us place ads and to 'screen' the calls we get. It has been about six months and we have not had many calls, just one that didn't work out. We are going to continue the private route but if we still don't have any progress by February we are going to ALSO sign with an agency.
I have been trying to figure out who to use. It is so overwhelming. Also, I found an agency I thought seemed interesting and then got a letter from them that they are not licensed in NY where we live! I don't know about being with two agencies but I would think it is ok ....I would probably keep it private though so each one works hard for you. Anyway, I was wondering if we could try to PM eachother as we hear about any agencies that seem great. I have this weird attraction to some of the smaller agencies in Utah. I always assumed I would go with Gladny but I just don't know.

Anyway, let me know if you would like to share info.

Thanks.

G.

[jaenelle]

We went with a large agency that places many babies. So far, our experience with them has been very positive. If you really want the personal attention and handholding, then probably a smaller agency is better. But if you feel you can handle not being walked through the whole process, then a larger agency will probably result in a shorter waiting time overall.

[tobeafamily]

Originally Posted by JaneV

Hi all,

My husband and I are beginning the process of finding a domestic adoption agency. We're not sure if we should pick a large one because they would have more experience and more potential birth mothers or if a small (local?) agency would be easier to work with.

Does anyone have any thoughts on this? Also, is it common to sign with two agencies simultaneously? Thanks in advance. Feel free to PM me with any advice!

Jane,

I agree that what is more important is the agency's track record - how many domestic parental placements do they make every year, and what % of their clients get a placement within one year? That's important too: They can say they've had 80 placements - put that in perspective? Was that out of 90 waiting families ore 900?

Also look at their reputation within your community: Would your OB/GYN say good things about them? Religious Leader?

Lastly, how comfortable are YOU with them? If you feel like you're being treated as a number, it won't get better, and this is stressful enough with an agency whose staff you like. It's important that your needs and their services are a FIT no matter what their size.

JMHO

Regina

[Momtosons]

The agency I used(although I did not pick it....I was matched through a refferal service), was small! It was wonderful to call and always have the same person answer the phone....a person that knew me!! It was a great experience!!