What to look for when choosing an agency


1. Reputation – Can you get references from other people who’ve foster adopted with this agency from beginning to end. Did they support you? Answer all your questions?


2. Size of agency. I prefer a smaller agency, but others like to work with large agencies. With a larger agency you’ll get more services. Respite (see below) Classes, support will be more available. The downside of a larger agency is that you may not feel part of the agency ‘family’, unless you have a great caseworker on your side.


3. Training and Classes. What types of classes are held onsite? Can you take the required CPR class at their office or will they help you find another class? What about specialized classes such as parenting special needs or Love and Logic? Does the agency require more training than your state?


4. Respite Care. Will your agency help you find or provide respite services? Most states will not allow you to leave foster / foster adopt children with babysitters. Trained respite providers will give you a much needed break on occasion.


5. Do they seem organized? When you call do they know who you are? Do you need to explain yourself to a new person each phone call? Can they locate your paperwork quickly?


6. What other resources can they link you up with? Can they direct you to adoption support or foster support in your area?


7. Do they have post adoption services? What if you have trouble and questions later? Can they help?


8. Do they specialize in certain types of children? In our area some agencies place special needs children, another works only with teenagers. Be sure to ask the question before starting your paperwork to make sure it is a good match!


9. Open adoption? Do they support open adoption? Do they discourage it? What type of support do they offer? Will they help with visitations? If you want a semi-open adoption, will they act as an intermediary for letters? There isn’t a right or wrong way to do this, but you need counseling to help you decide what is right for your family based upon the birth family and safety issues.


10. Go with your gut. Trust yourself and how you feel when you first make contact. After all, you are the one who is going to be working with the agency closely. Know what you like and choose accordingly.

Good luck!

Comments? Email me at fostadoptblog@adoptionmail.com or leave a comment below.