[moelladeville]

I wonder if those of you choosing agencies are aware of a yahoo group where agencies are NOT welcome, and people share their stories -- good and bad -- about adoption agencies and professionals from all countries -- by name.

I wish I had had it as a resource when I was making this important decision. I think since it's a not-for-profit site, I can mention the url, which is http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Adopti...guid=276926758

You do need to join, but that keeps agencies from being able to read it, although like anywhere, the occasional mole forwards posts to agencies. In case the url above is removed, you can also research them by searching yahoo groups for adoption agency research.

If you have completed an adoption, join and share. It's a great information exchange.

[becky716]

I'm a member and love it.

Bump, bump, bump!!

[P.E.Z.]

For people who might sign with a bad agency this info is
PRICELESS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks for posting it .

[mommytoEli]

you know what is funny...I joined this group recently and read all kinds of crap about my agency that sounds JUST like what I am going through...and what I've heard from others here. So, it didn't help me avoid them, but at least I don't feel crazy...I know it is not just me. Anyone wanting to yell at me, I acknowledge the fact that people can have different experiences with the same agencies. I am happy for those of you that have had a positive experience with my agency. People that run agencies can be nice people, but still be bad business people or have poor communication skills. Had I known how many people were getting the run around and how few people were being serviced as promised from my agency BEFORE I started and fell in love with ELi, I would not have chosen them. I encourage those looking for an agency to know that there are some people who are just complainers out there, but if you hear much much more negative than positive, seriously weigh your decision before making it. THere are many people on this board, and on other groups, who are very happy with their agencies.....research like a maniac

[Kirsten]

The best part about this list is that you can name names and get specific information about an agency before you use them. There's also databases on things such as agencies that use trolls/moles, agencies who have been in the media, agencies with gag clauses, what to ask an agency/facilitator before using them etc.

I too thought that we were the only people unhappy with our agency and lo and behold, there's a ton of people on the agency research yahoo group that feel the same way. In fact, our agency has even sent a "nasty-gram" to the list moderator because of all the bad publicity they've been getting. What an eye opening experience- too bad I didn't know all this before signing.

Kirsten

[becky716]

I thought it was funny that the "nasty gram" blew up in their faces. It really showed what a horrible agency they really are. Funny, too, that it was my agency! Don't you just love them.

[Michelle Smiles]

I was a member before I signed with my agency and it was so helpful in doing research! A good resource for those out there looking for information!

[PMAPhila]

I am also a member (still doing my research) and am so thankful for the board. It is a wonderful source of info.

Tricia

[P.E.Z.]

Bumping ! Bumping ! Bumping !

[Disneycrazed]

Could someone tell me how long it takes to get approved?

[kimy]

Oh Marjorie,
you know I have a storie to tell.
Kim

[lifessence]

i wish i knew about this group before we signed with our agency as well! now when we go to adopt again i will have plenty of opportunity to ask all the questions i now know are so important up front!!!!

buyer beware - so sad but true! i'm so thankful we found our sons and trust that God knows much better than we ever will why we went with this agency.

i second research like mad before falling in love with a child from a photo listing!!!!! God will lead you if you listen to the right agency who will bring you to the right child!!! adoption is the biggest leap of faith i have ever experienced - my dh second's that as well!!!

[Mary Mulcahy]

Marjorie, thank you for posting this. I try to respond to all my PM about my agency and my experience but this site tells it all! Sometimes, I think if I knew then what I know now,...

For those who have not picked a placement agency it is so worth it. Please take the chance.

I have seen so many terrible cases due to the agency and the attorney.
Mary, mom to two
Hey Marjorie nice to see your post.

[P.E.Z.]

bumping up !!!!!

[DPline]

Another bump for a great site. Well worth joining. Lots of very worthwhile discussion and information.