National Council For Adoption

02/08/2021

Family adopts three children with three different heart conditions

"These kids might have been born with a broken heart, but they are strong, and there's a light in them," Tara said.
https://www.heart.org/en/news/2019/03/20/family-adopts-three-children-with-three-different-heart-conditions
#chdawarenessmonth #specialneedsadoption

While many American families adopt children from China, even multiple children, there's more to the Fussell family. Each of the three children they adopted had a heart condition.

02/02/2021

Save the Dates for this year's Conference! Learn more and submit a presentation proposal at https://adoptioncouncil.org/conference

#socialworkceu #adoptionconference #adoptionagencies #adoptionattorneys #socialworkers

02/01/2021

Understanding the Adoption Tax Credit - National Council For Adoption

The Adoption Tax Credit can significantly offset the costs and fees of an adoption process, but prospective adoptive parents need to ensure they understand the basics before determining how much it can help them. In this updated Guide to Understanding the Adoption Tax Credit, we explain what the ATC is, how it is different from a tax deduction, how it works, and what the eligibility and qualifying expenses are. We also discuss proposed legislation to improve the ATC’s ability to help more families and strengthen opportunities for more children to thrive in permanent, loving families.

Read this month's #AdoptionAdvocate by Ryan Hanlon and Becky Wilmoth (Bill's Tax Service) here: https://adoptioncouncil.org/publications/understanding-the-adoption-tax-credit/

The Adoption Tax Credit can significantly offset the costs and fees of an adoption process, but prospective adoptive parents need to ensure they understand the basics before determining how much it can help them. In this updated Guide to Understanding the Adoption Tax Credit, we explain what the ATC...

01/13/2021

We are pleased to share that NCFA has announced the 2021 Recipients of the Ruby Lee Piester Award, Dr. and Mrs. Wayne and Linda Sharp. The full announcement, including a commemorative video, is available on our website at https://adoptioncouncil.org/blog/2021-ruby-lee-awardees/

01/05/2021

People who are interested in adopting are often worried about their ability to come up with the necessary funds for the adoption process. They may also wonder how they can afford the services required for a child with known medical, developmental, or other needs. Adoption subsidies are an underutilized and often misunderstood resource for those who qualify for adoption assistance. This month’s issue of the #AdoptionAdvocate provides essential information and answers to frequently asked questions about adoption subsidies.

Read it here: https://adoptioncouncil.org/publications/a-guide-to-adoption-subsidies-and-assistance-for-adoptive-parents/

Author Jennifer Kelly is a founding partner of Special Angels Adoption - Advocates for Special Needs and also serves
as the Program Director for Advocates for Children and Families in Alabama.

01/05/2021

'I fell in love with this boy in the photo. I knew he was going to become our son'

“Adoption is always derived from loss, and that is often overlooked. We, as adoptive parents, are not saviors or heroes in this. We are just people who grew our family through adoption, who have the privilege of doing everything we can to raise healthy and happy boys.”
https://www.kidspot.com.au/news/mums-touching-story-of-adopting-her-two-sons-from-south-korea/news-story/aa985d211dc287cf9feb9ce270f6de02

"He had the sweetest pudgy cheeks, fluffy black hair, and a smile that was seriously the sweetest thing I had ever seen."

01/04/2021

The 117th Congress is officially underway and you might be surprised to learn that the Congressional Caucus on Adoption is the largest, bi-cameral, bipartisan caucus in Congress. Are your Senators and Representative part of the Caucus? Contact them today and ask! contactingcongress.gov is the easiest way to get in touch with them. Point them to ccainstitute.org to learn more about joining the caucus and thank them for advocating for sound adoption laws and policies that work in the best interests of children in need of permanent families.

01/04/2021

Adoption rates up in Region 8, officials hope this trend continues

Some good news this Monday morning out of Arkansas! https://www.kait8.com/video/2020/12/30/adoption-rates-up-region-officials-hope-this-trend-continues/

The year has presented many challenges, but one good thing has risen at the very end of the year, adoptions and fostering needs have been met despite the pandemic.

01/01/2021

Timeline Photos

12/31/2020

With a new year of opportunities before us, we are so grateful for the generosity of many who have stepped up this season to support NCFA's work in adoption education, research, advocacy and awareness. In these final hours of 2020, we invite you to join them with a special end of year gift of your own to support adoption! With your help, we can achieve our shared vision to help every child, everywhere, have the loving and permanent family they deserve.

12/31/2020

Why I'm Supporting NCFA this Season - Lauren's Story

"Adoption has given me a wonderful family and a stable upbringing. I love that NCFA provides resources, training and support for all members of the adoption triad." Listen to the rest of Lauren's story and join her in supporting NCFA at adoptioncouncil.org/donate

12/30/2020

There's still time to make a special end of year gift to support NCFA's work advocating for laws and policies that strengthen and support adoption! Give today at adoptioncouncil.org/donate

12/30/2020

Christmas a special holiday for adoptive families around Meridian

"“As an advocate for fostering and adoption, I encourage others to consider it," Barr said. "Not only consider it but to do it. There are so many children out there who need love and acceptance.”"
https://www.meridianstar.com/news/local_news/christmas-a-special-holiday-for-adoptive-families-around-meridian/article_c581a5f1-4458-5282-a82f-4dd83b3b9184.html

There’s an old saying that goes “There’s no place like home for the holidays.”

12/28/2020

When you give to NCFA, you make it possible for us to provide support and services to hundreds of professionals who collectively serve thousands of families and children.

From social workers to case managers, program directors and intake counselors, the vital work of adoption professionals is vital to the interests of children and parents during some of their most formative life experiences. NCFA provides adoption agencies and attorneys with the resources, training, and community connections necessary to equip them for best practice as they strive to serve with compassion and a commitment to the highest ethical standards.

Give today with a special year-end gift at adoptioncouncil.org/donate.

12/27/2020

The journey of adoption doesn’t end when the papers are signed. Being adopted impacts one's life in new ways all the time, whether four or 42. NCFA seeks to give voice to adopted individuals and to offer resources that help them find the trusted guidance and support needed to embrace their story and live confident in their worth, strength, and identity.

As we anticipate the start of a new year, and opportunities to increase our impact, we hope you will join us in our mission to serve everyone connected to adoption through a special, end of year gift. adoptioncouncil.org/donate

12/22/2020

Part of honoring birth parents means ensuring they have access to the resources they need to find their own healing through compassionate care and ongoing support. Because even when a birth parent is confident in their decision, there will be difficult days, and times when the pain is more profound. And, there are inevitable challenges when navigating complex issues like open adoption or search and reunion.

Your end of year gift supports NCFA's collaborative programs that provide education, advocacy, and research aimed at improving supports and services for birth parents.

Thank you for supporting NCFA's work to make a difference in the lives of everyone connected to adoption.

12/21/2020

From Congo to Camas to college

“Jacques’ parents call their son a fighter filled with resiliency shown every day. Their children by way of international adoption are the light of their lives, they say. Jacques believes his life has been shaped this way for a purpose, and knows it is special to have a family like Rod, Dina and Poonam.”
https://www.columbian.com/news/2020/dec/20/from-congo-to-camas-to-college/

CAMAS — This is how many know Jacques Badolato-Birdsell: a Camas High School standout in football, wrestling and track and field who set two single-season school records in 2019 playing running back i

12/21/2020

May peace and joy fill your home this season!

12/18/2020

Kentucky family adopts child with same rare disorder son has

“It’s a challenge, but it's totally worth it to give a child in need a chance to have a long, loving, typical life,” Monica said. “You will absolutely change the child’s life, but also your own.”
https://www.today.com/parents/kentucky-family-adopts-child-same-rare-disorder-son-has-t203597
#familyfriday #internationaladoption #specialneedsadoption #familiesforall

Tag and Trey Poynter share the same genetic blood condition that causes spontaneous internal bleeding.

12/17/2020

Expectant parents want to make the decision that is right for them and their baby. They deserve access to trusted resources and ethical professionals, and the opportunity to make a fully informed decision. One that's right for them. One that only they can make.

Your end of year gift goes directly to NCFA's adoption education, awareness, and research programs to meet the needs of expectant parents as they consider the option of making an adoption plan.

Thank you for supporting NCFA's work to make a difference in the lives of everyone connected to adoption.
adoptioncouncil.org/donate

12/16/2020

Minnesota Family Shares Experience Of Adopting Brothers During COVID

“Sometimes you have to stop and look for the silver linings. I think what the pandemic has taught all of us is one of the most important things are connections and for a child the most important thing is family,” Oberdorfer said.

A great article featuring NCFA member agency Children's Home & LSS Adoption & Foster Care

The pandemic forced several organizations to pause and figure out how to move forward. That's true for adoption in Minnesota.

12/16/2020

‘You love this country, and it’s taken from you’: Adoption doesn’t guarantee US citizenship

Passage of the #adopteecitizenshipact is long overdue. Through many conversations and interviews, NCFA was pleased to serve as a source for this new article just published in USA TODAY which shines a spotlight on the injustice faced by so many adopted individuals. Learn more about the issue and how you can support the passage of this critical legislation at http://adopteecitizenshipact.org

Thousands of adoptees who came into the U.S. legally as children found out they aren’t citizens. They face uncertainty and, at worst, deportation.

12/11/2020

What Happened After I Tried to Adopt an Opioid-Dependent Baby. Twice.

"I read some more words I’d prepared, telling Grayson how happy I was for the privilege of a life with him: 'I love you more than I ever thought possible. Today’s your day, buddy.'"
Washingtonian

Carrie Brady was 40 and single when she decided to adopt the child of someone addicted to drugs. A harrowing story of birth in the 21st century.

12/08/2020

Dinner :60 | Adoption from Foster Case | Ad Council

Kudos to the Ad Council for an exceptional job telling the story of teen adoption! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5tD1AEXvUg8&feature=youtu.be
To learn more about adopting from foster care, and adopting adolescents or older children, search our resources at adoptioncouncil.org!
#familiesforall #adoption

There are roughly 122,000 youth under the age of 18 currently waiting to be adopted. Teens in the foster care system have lower adoption rates, and often wai...

12/07/2020

Welcoming A Love Beyond Borders Adoption Agency and Absolute Love Adoptions, Inc to the NCFA membership community!

Learn more about NCFA membership options for adoption agencies and attorneys at https://adoptioncouncil.org/adoption-professionals/membership/

12/07/2020

This is a powerful story well worth the read (parts 1 and 2) for everyone connected to adoption - from expectant and birth parents to adoptive parents and professionals.

(1/2) “I found out I was pregnant the day before my senior year, and my parents took me to an adoption lawyer so that we could learn about the process. She showed us a box full of folders and pictures from families hoping to adopt. I spent months looking through family profiles—but nothing felt right. I don’t even know what I was looking for. Maybe I was looking for myself in ten years-- someone who could raise my son like I wished I could. The one thing I knew was that I wanted an open adoption. I wanted to be part of my son’s life. But those arrangements weren’t common back then. Families would offer to send pictures, but not much more. And I don’t blame them for wanting to feel like their child belonged to them. But sometimes it felt like the focus was only on the baby. I was doing this huge number on myself emotionally, and I was expected to fall in line. But Kathy and Tom weren’t like that at all. When they came to our house, it was a completely different energy. Kathy kept saying: ‘Thank you so much for considering us. She explained that she’d miscarried many times. She didn’t try to negotiate. It was actually the opposite—she kept adding to my requests. When I asked if I’d be able to come over, she said: ‘I’d love for you to babysit.’ When I asked if I could see my son on his birthday, she said: ‘I was thinking family dinners.’ It was always: ‘Whatever makes you comfortable,’ and for the first time I felt seen. I called Kathy the next day and asked her if she’d adopt my baby. Over the next several weeks, we spent a lot of time together. We talked about the baby some, but it was mainly about me: my worries, my plans, my hopes. Aden arrived a month early, and Kathy handled the delivery with such grace. The entire time she was focused on my comfort level, and where I was emotionally. As soon as Aden was born, and they placed him on my chest, I said: ‘Please give him to his mom.’ Kathy let me buckle him in the car seat before they drove away. And I gave him a kiss, and it hurt so much. But I also felt so much relief. Then I felt immense guilt for feeling relief. Had I really done this for my child? Or had I done it to get myself off the hook?”

12/04/2020

Discover the trusted adoption expertise of NCFA

After 40 years, there's a lot we could write about who we are and what we do to serve everyone connected to adoption. But we thought we'd show you instead. Check out the NCFA story in this just released video!

12/03/2020

Seasons of annual celebration are strongly linked to traditions, memories, and family. Which holidays are celebrated, and how they are celebrated, is also strongly tied to religious and cultural background. These elements of the holidays can present some unique challenges for adoptive families and individuals that have been adopted to navigate. In December’s issue of the #AdoptionAdvocate, adoption professional Elise Lowe provides suggestions on responding to holidays in ways that strengthen bonds and reinforce the family unit.

Read it here: https://adoptioncouncil.org/publications/unwrapping-opportunities-for-adoptive-families-during-the-holidays/

12/02/2020

Inspired to Serve

"With your help, there's so much more to be done. At this critical time, there are children out there who desperately need families, and we can help." Check out more in this "Inspired to Serve" message from adoptive parent and NCFA board member Andrea. Make your Giving Tuesday or end of year gift at adoptioncouncil.org/donate.

12/01/2020

What better way to give generously than to help children and youth come into loving, permanent, well-prepared and supported families, through adoption? In the U.S. alone, there are over 122,000 waiting for a family. Now is the time to make a difference!
Join our Giving Tuesday fundraiser at https://www.facebook.com/donate/1735385993290399/
or give safely and securely through our website at adoptioncouncil.org/donate
#familiesforall
#supportadoption

12/01/2020

Professional and Personal - Ryan's Story

"I'm proud of the work that NCFA does to further research. I'm proud of our work advocating for better legislation on behalf of birth families and adoptive families. I'm proud of NCFA's advocacy for families like mine."
Hear more from Ryan Hanlon in this quick video for all our followers and supporters!

Supporting NCFA is easy this Giving Tuesday. Just visit adoptioncouncil.org/donate to get started.

12/01/2020

Tomorrow is one of the best days of the year - the day when generosity shines bright and lives are changed through the kindness of caring people.💛

This Giving Tuesday we invite you to make a difference in the lives of everyone touched by adoption by supporting NCFA. 💙

Together, we can help more children come into permanent, loving families through adoption. Together, we can deliver impactful training for adoption professionals to better serve expectant, birth and adoptive parents. Together, we can provide lifelong resources for adoptive individuals. Together, we will stand for sound adoption policies and laws to make adoption better.

🌟 Set up your personal Facebook fundraiser for NCFA: https://www.facebook.com/fund/AdoptionCouncil/

🌟 Give through NCFA's current Facebook fundraiser: https://www.facebook.com/donate/1735385993290399/

#givingtuesday2020 #supportadoption #familiesforall