[jkjjpc]

I am a single male seeking to adopt a son. I have completed the home study except for selecting a country. The two primary options are Russia and Ukraine. I am leaning toward Ukraine for a variety of reasons, including the fact that they appear more friendly to single male adoptions and the one trip requirement. I have read a lot on this forum and others and would like to hear any advice people may have as I make my decision. The agency that I would be working with for Russia would send me to the St. Petersburg region. For Ukraine, I could either work with a local agency that has a relationship with a group of facilitators in Ukraine, or I could go independent such as through the Cathy Harris organization. For those who suggest Ukraine, I would liek to hear your advice on agency versus independent adoptions.

Note: I'm posting this in the general section, the Russia section, and the Ukraine section to maximize visibilty and responses.

Thanks in advance

John

[skiboo]

Hi John,
I don't have advice to offer per se, but I do want to wish you the best of luck with your adoption. I have heard (second hand) a lot of good things about the orphanages in the St. Petersburg area, but have never been there myself as we are still early in the process.
Which agency sends you to St. Petersburg? Just curious...
Janie

[papedge]

Hello we are adopting from St.Petersberg have not been there yet hope to go sooooon waiting on russian invite they said it should be anyday I have a friend that vacation in St.Petersberg he said it is just wonderful there well keep intouch and mybe I will go soon and tell you all about it over there

[Cristel]

Hi. I do not have much advice for you. I just thought I'd let you know of a new book out about a single man's experience adopting from Russia. I haven't read it, but it looks good. Maybe you've already heard of it. If not, it is called:

Adopting Alyosha:
(A Single Man Finds a Son in Russia)
Robert Klose

It can be found at this website (and maybe others???):
http://www.adoptshoppebooks.com/russ...t.htm#Adopting Alyosha:

Good luck, Cristel

[CHARLESL]

John,

Good luck in your search. I adopted two boys from yekaterinaburg russia in jan. 2000. They are now 8 and 5 years old. The youngest was 16 months the oldest was four. I used childrens home socity of minnesota. They were great. I got hit with every crazy bad thing that could happen. The end result is that I have two great sons that I could never live without. The russian orphand=ges were lacking everything. America is a great place...................so remember that if people tell you it is impossible....just keep moving forward and find that agency that will help you. The russian orphanges are busting at the seams and these children need loving homes. Do what ever it takes to bring one to the states...................You are only a child once, and every kid deserves a good child hood. Keep the faith and go forward.

chuck