Familes Supporting Adoption - Western Washington Chapter

Will You Be There This Saturday???

2011-11-07T18:47:00.000-08:00

The Annual FSA Western Washington What to Expect when Expecting through Adoption Conference is this Saturday at 9am. Will you be there??? We hope so. If you have RSVP'd already then you are set to go. If not, you can still attend. Just stop by on Saturday between 9 and 6.

· When: Saturday, 11/19 from 9am - 6pm

· Where: Renton Stake Center (19714 106^th Ave SE, Renton WA 98055)

· 9:00am – Welcome in RS Room

· 9:30am – “Marking the Box” in YW Room

· 11:00am – “Networking” in RS Room

· 12:00pm – Lunch in YW Room

· 1:00pm – Adoption Panel in YW Room

· 2:00pm – Special Needs Adoption in RS Room

· 3:00pm – Trans- Racial Adoption in YW Room

· 4:00pm – “Talking to Kids about Adoption” in RS Room

· 5:00pm – “Being an Advocate and FSA” Q & A in YW Room

· 5:30pm – Closing and Raffle in YW Room

A light lunch (pizza and salad) will be provided. Feel free to bring snacks (or an alternate lunch); especially if you have any special dietary needs or if you did not RSVP by 10/31.

Anyone is welcome to attend, but only registered applicants are eligible for lunch.

Did you know that November is National Adoption Month??

2011-11-02T17:34:00.000-07:00

In 1976, the governor of Massachusetts, Michael Dukakis, announced an Adoption Week for his state. Later that same year President Gerald Ford proclaimed that Adoption Week would be celebrated nationally. According to Child Welfare Information Gateway, President Reagan proclaimed the first National Adoption Week in 1984. As more and more states started to participate in Adoption Week it became clear that more time was needed for holding events and in 1995, President Clinton, proclaimed November as National Adoption Month.

The celebration usually includes National Adoption Day with courthouses throughout the nation participating and hundreds of adoptions being finalized simultaneously.

November 19, 2011, will mark the 12th year for Adoption Day, which is part of National Adoption Month. Through the help of adoption professionals, child advocates, judges, and attorneys, thousands of children in foster care will finalize adoption and become part of a permanent home and family.

In our chapter, we are celebrating National Adoption Day at our local conference in Renton, WA. Hope you can attend or that you celebrate National Adoption Month and/or Day in your own way.

FSA Conference Flier -- Hope to see you on Saturday, November 19th in Renton.

2011-10-05T13:20:00.000-07:00

Upcoming Office Sponsered Adoption Education Opportunity -- Saturday, October 22nd, 9am

2011-09-26T14:59:00.000-07:00

The next adoption education classes offered by the Renton Office will be held on Saturday, October 22nd. If you are looking to learn more about adoption or are in need of your required adoption education hours, please save the date. Those living in Alaska are welcome to consider joining by phone. For those interested in learning more on improving your online profile, plan to join from 4:30PM – 5:30PM. This hour will focus specifically on improving your online profile and visual outreach. You can attend in person or can request an invite to Meeting Place to join by phone or computer. If you have questions, please contact a member of the Adoption Team at LDSFS.

When: Saturday, October 22nd, 9 AM - 6 PM PST
(or 4:30PM -5:30PM if you have already had the core classes and are joining only for the Improving Your Profile Portion.)

Where: LDS Family Services: 220 South Third Place Renton, WA 98057

Please RSVP to your LDSFS Caseworker or contact the office directly at 425-228-0074. Bring a snack and a lunch if you want to eat in; however, we expect to have time for a short lunch break.

More Finding Ideas

2011-09-10T23:39:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for a child over the age of six or a sibling group of two or more children? Can you parent a child with difficult behaviors or have experience with medical challenges? Opening up your home to a child in need is certainly a very special gift. Our Matching Assistance Program could be for you!

Every day children’s case workers from all over the United States search for suitable homes for hundreds of foster kids nationwide. In this search, they are looking at parenting qualifications such as: Parent Training and Education, Ability to accommodate special needs, and family background.

Having your profile, narrative, home study, and possibly a video ready for a searching case worker greatly increases the chance that you will be selected as a potential family for a waiting child.

You don't need extraordinary equipment to provide these to us. Pertinent, honest, and entertaining family photos can be taken with an ordinary digital camera and uploaded via the internet to the Family Website. The profile consists of information about how to reach you, your situation, and your parenting experiences.

Matching Assistance is a password protected site with additional child listings, helping support qualified, current home studied families looking for sibling groups or single children over the age of six.

Many families have a difficult time finding children to submit on as well as being considered and notified by the caseworkers. We're here to help families through this sometimes long and difficult part of the adoption process. We are NOT taking place of your adoption worker. We work alongside you as part of a team to help place a child or children in your home.

We can, depending on the option you choose, follow up on children you inquire or submit your homestudy on, search nationwide on your behalf and support you throughout your adoption journey. We are here for YOU!

We pride ourselves on having a very current and reliable web listing of over 800 children waiting for their adoptive families. When you submit your homestudy through Matching Assistance, caseworkers get to know who you are with the information you provide in your family biography, written by you, including your family photos and any additional family documents or video included each time you request we submit your homestudy for a child.

The Children
Most waiting children are OVER the age of 6, male, are school aged, part of a racial, ethnic, or cultural minority. Part of a sibling group needing to be placed together, and/or have physical, mental, developmentalor emotional disabilities. All are waiting for the love and security that only a permanent family can offer.

The average age of a child in foster care is 9, but children range from infants to teenagers. Virtually every race, ethnic group, and socioeconomic category is represented.

Our Goal
Our goal is to work alongside families providing them with one on one communication, assurance and assistance in learning how to best represent themselves in their family profile and home study, as well as helping them to do child searches based on what will best fit within their family.

Matching Assistance The Matching Assistance Option supports your family, by assigning a Family Adoption Specialist during your journey to adoption as well as someone who reviews your family materials and gives your perspective and suggestions for your family web profile. We will update and follow up on the children you submit on. CLICK HERE

Photolisting This option gives families the ability to show caseworkers their personality and character through pictures and a bio page. You are NOT assigned a family adoption specialist and your worker is responsible for follow up on any inquiries and submissions on children. CLICK HERE
Please contact the Matching Assistance Director at jennyhancock@afamilyforeverychild.org. I look forward to talking with you.

Mark Your Calendars!!!

2011-09-06T18:55:00.000-07:00

November is National Adoption Awareness Month and we are celebrating with a Chapter Wide conference.

"What To Expect When Expecting Through Adoption" will be held all day, 9am-6pm, Saturday November 19th at the Renton Stake Center. Classes will include:

What to expect with a special needs adoption - A class on special needs children by people who have adopted kids with special needs.

What to expect with a trans-racial adoption - A class on raising children in a trans-racial family by people who have adopted kids of all different races.

What to expect from networking - A class on ways to network your adoption by a fellow FSA member know for her networking skills.

What to expect when marking the box - A class on information about all hte different health concerns you must think about when filling out your acceptance paperwork by a Pediatrician.

What to expect when talking to your kids about adoption - A class on open communication with your children about their adoption by our Regional FSA Chairs.

What to expect from FSA - A class on what FSA is and how it is here to help by the Seattle Chapter President.

There will also be a Full Story Panel. Adoptive Couples, their Birth Parents and adopted children will be telling their story and answering your questions.

We are working on getting free childcare available and lunch will be provided. We need a head count, so if you are interested in attending, please e-mail us at families.supporting.adoption@gmail.com

This event is FREE so register and we will see you there!

Labor Day Camping

2011-09-06T18:44:00.000-07:00

We had a HUGE success at our 2nd Annual Labor Day Camp Out and Pancake Breakfast. Twenty Eight people were in attendance over the holiday weekend. Thanks to all those that came out, it was so good to talk about adoption and how it has blessed each of our lives as well as learn a little about how Foster-to-Adopt works.

The cooks! Thanks Cassie and Dan!

Chris and JoNette

Brett and Carol's little one, Brayden.

Carol and Brett G. and son, Brayden.

Heidi and Ryan C. with their son, Ezra, and foster children, Miles and Zala.

Jeff and Gina S. and son, J.D. .

Some of the gange enjoying the pancake breakfast.

Cassie W., Julianna M., Jacob M., Dan M., Katie M., Sarah M., and Chris B. enjoying some games.

Dan and Julianna M. with daughter, Mikayla.

The M's playing some games.

Add caption

An Opportunity to Learn More About Washington's Waiting Kids -- Sept. 24th, 1-5 PM in Redmond, WA -- Sponsered by Overlake Christian Church

2011-08-16T16:45:00.000-07:00

Wait No More^®: Finding Families for Washington's Waiting Kids

Saturday, Sept. 24, 2011
1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
Overlake Christian Church
Redmond, WA

Learn more about the Focus on the Family Adoption & Orphan Care Initiative at iCareAboutOrphans.org.

You can make a difference in the life of an orphan.

*Models used for illustrative purposes

Greetings from Focus on the Family!

It's my privilege to extend an invitation for you to join us for our Wait No More®: Finding Families for Washington's Waiting Kids conference presented in conjunction with local adoption leaders on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2011 in Redmond, WA.

As you may know, we recently launched our Adoption & Orphan Care Initiative™ in an effort to raise awareness throughout the Overlake Christian Church regarding the plight of orphans, with particular emphasis on legal orphans right here in the U.S. foster care system.

In Washington alone, more than 1,000 children and youth are waiting in the foster care system for adoptive families. Thankfully, with over 5,000 churches in Washington, there is every reason to hope that we can make a difference in the lives of these lonely children. Consider the impact if families throughout the state's congregations welcomed these waiting children in foster care into their hearts and homes: We could see no children in foster care awaiting adoption! Such a goal is certainly not beyond the realm of possibility, and we are committed to doing everything possible to help bring it to fruition.

This gathering will provide detailed information regarding the adoption process via the foster care system. Additionally, those present will be given an opportunity to ask questions and to become acquainted with the faces and stories of some of the children waiting in Washington's foster care system who long for a family to call their own.

This is a free event, but we do ask that you take a few minutes to register. All participants who register in advance will be provided with a selection of complimentary resources.

In James 1:27 we're told, "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans ... in their distress ... " With that exhortation in mind, we urge you to join this informative and ground-breaking conference.

We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, Sept. 24 from 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Again, please take a moment to register. Meanwhile, we would covet your prayers for this vital undertaking on behalf of Washington's waiting kids. May God's blessings remain upon you and your loved ones in the days ahead.

Sincerely,

Jim Daly
President

Win a Pair of National Conference Tickets for August 12th and 13th 2011 in Utah

2011-07-10T22:24:00.000-07:00

The National Conference is quickly approaching.

We thought that with all the excitement of the conference, it would be a great idea to have a blog giveaway!

We are giving away a PAIR of National Conference tickets to a lucky blog reader ($80 value)!

You might be thinking, "Oh no! I already purchased my tickets!" Don't worry! We will refund you for two of those should you win.

If you would like to enter this giveaway, here is what to do:

•Leave a comment on this blog post on the National Blog.
•Include your email address in this comment.

Extra Entries are Available:

Leave an additional comment with your email address for each extra entry.

•"Follow" The FSA National Blog.
•Subscribe to The FSA National Blog.
•follow @NationalFSA on Twitter.
•Tweet about this giveaway, using @NationalFSA in your tweet! (This can be done once per day.)
•Become a fan of or "like" Families Supporting Adoption on Facebook.
•Blog about this giveaway on your blog, linking back to this post. Leave a link to your post in your comment.
•Add one of the Families Supporting Adoption blog buttons to your blog.
•Email your family and friends about this giveaway; send your email to fsablog at gmail dot com.

Don't forget to leave your email address so we can contact you should you win. Entries will be accepted until Thursday, July 14, 2010 at 11:59 PM MST. The winner will be announced the following day via email. The winner has 48 hours to respond. If they fail to respond, a new winner will be selected.

Good Luck!

The Fine Print:

This giveaway is for two full National Conference tickets only. The winner will be responsible for travel to the conference and hotel accommodations. This blog is run by a member of the FSA National Board who is responsible for the National Conference. This board member was not compensated for this post. Winner will be randomly selected.

Ocean Shores FSA Outing this Saturday, June 25th at 11ish AM

2011-06-23T20:53:00.000-07:00

You probably already know, but just in case you do not, here's the info ...

Join up with Families Supporting Adoption at the Beach in Ocean Shores on Saturday, June 25th. This is a very casual event and anyone is invited. Bring your family, your friends, or grab a friendly neighbor! We just want a chance to visit, hang out, fly kites, and enjoy nature together. Look for our new FSA signs on the beach to find us or call Julianna at 360-464-5887.

Bring your own lunch and any supplies you may want for a day at the Beach in the Pacific NW (i.e. sunscreen, a rain jacket, lunch, water, sand toys, rubber boots, towels, kite, etc.).

Upcoming Office Sponsered Adoption Education Opportunity -- Monday, August 29th

2011-06-23T20:45:00.000-07:00

The next adoption education classes offered by the Renton Office will be held on Monday, August 29th. If you are looking to learn more about adoption or are in need of your required 10 adoption education hours, please save the date. Those living in Alaska are welcome to consider joining by phone.

When: Monday, August 29th, 9 AM - 6 PM (PST)

Where: LDS Family Services: 220 South Third Place Renton, WA 98057

Please RSVP to your LDSFS Caseworker or contact the office directly at 425-228-0074. There will be a 1/2 hour lunch break. Plan to bring snacks and dress comfortably.

Images from the Carkeek FSA Outing on June 18th

2011-06-19T22:53:00.000-07:00

Carkeek Park was a bit wet this past Saturday for our FSA Seattle Area Beach Event on the 18th, but at least one family braved it anyway. If the rain scared you away, let's hope for sun this coming Saturday as FSA will be heading out to the beach again. This time we will be meeting in Ocean Shores, WA on Saturday, June 25th at 11 AM. Find your kite, decide what you will pack for your own picnic lunch and watch for information on how to meet up on this blog and in your in-box (via Evite) soon.

Registration for the International 2011 FSA Conference is Now Available

2011-06-19T20:48:00.000-07:00

Registration is up and running for the

2011 FSA International Conference in Utah this Summer.

Click here to go to the registration page.

The conference will be held at the Davis Conference Center in Layton, Utah on Friday, August 12, 2011, from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, and Saturday, August 13, 2011, from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.

The cost of conference is $40 per person for early registration.

After July 15, 2011, registration will be $45 per person.

**Conference registration for birth parents is free**

Lodging information is located on the registration site.

Watch the National Blog for more details about workshop topics...coming soon at: http://familiessupportingadoption.blogspot.com

Friday Keynote Speaker: Sister Julie B. Beck, Relief Society General President

Special Guest Speaker: Chuck Johnson, National Council For Adoption

Saturday Keynote Speaker: Dr. Karyn Purvis, Texas Christian University

Join FSA in Spreading a Postive Image of Adoption at the Tumwater Parade on Monday, July 4th

2011-06-16T08:52:00.000-07:00

DATE: Monday, July 4th, 2011

TIME: Check in between 9:30 and 10:15. The parade starts at 11:00am.

Banners and posters will be available but if you would like to bring one your welcome to do so. Include a pic of your family and a comment about adoption OR blow up your pass along card to poster size.

A picnic celebration at Friendly Grove Park, in Olympia, will follow the parade so bring a packed lunch. The park has swings and a playground equipment as well as tennis courts, a field and space for kids to ride their bikes.

We are hoping for at least 10 families so e-mail us if your able to join us. We need a final head count by Fri. July 1st.

Thanks!

We've mentioned it before, but did you know we are heading to the Beach in Seattle on Saturday the 18th at 11ish??

2011-06-15T13:24:00.000-07:00

Meet us at the Salmon Slide at 11 AM.

This Saturday is our Seattle Area beach outing at Carkeek Park and next Saturday is our Ocean Shores Beach Outing. Both events will meet up at 11 AM. Anyone is welcome to attend. (Carkeek Park is located at: 950 North West Carkeek Park Road Seattle, WA 98177). BTW, it is the lowest tide of the summer this week, so even if you don't meet up with us at Carkeek, its a great week to visit a Seattle area beach on the Sound any day this week (14th -18th) between about 10 AM and 2 PM.

Here are some details regarding Carkeek this weekend:

Join up with Families Supporting Adoption (FSA) at Carkeek Beach in Seattle on Saturday, June 18th. This is a very casual event and anyone is invited. Bring your family, your friends, your pet or grab a friendly neighbor! We just want a chance to visit and hang out and enjoy nature together. Let's meet at the bottom of the Salmon Slide near the playground at 11 AM. Just text or call me if you want to know where we are headed next! (Larissa - 801-209-4198)

From the Salmon Slide, North of the main play area, we can stick together or spread out. At Carkeek, there is plenty of sand, picnic benches, a great play area, and as it is low tide, beach naturalists will be there to point out the cool creatures of the Puget Sound. Expect the parking to be limited and feel free to arrive any time and just connect at the Salmon Slide at 11 AM. Bring your own lunch and any supplies you may want for a day at the Beach in the Pacific NW (ie. sunscreen, a rain jacket, lunch, water, sand toys, rubber boots, etc.)

See the previous blog post at http://fsawa.blogspot.com/2011/04/save-date-for-fsa-beach-day-saturday.html if desired. Hope to see you at Carkeek Park on Saturday, June 18th at 11 AM (or in Ocean Shores the following week on Saturday, the 25th if that works better. Expect to receive an Evite and watch for an updated blog post with the Ocean Shores details coming soon).

http://www.seattle.gov/Parks/environment/carkeek.htm

NCFA is pleased to release Adoption Advocate No. 36, "Avoiding Adoption Scams."

2011-06-02T20:45:00.000-07:00

Introduction

Most adoptions go well. The adoptive family has good intentions and works with adoption professionals who help address everyone’s needs and legal rights. However, the fact remains that adoption fraud does indeed exist. Creating a legally binding family through adoption isn’t always easy, and the existence of adoption fraud can make the process even more challenging.
It is important to note that not all unfortunate circumstances are the result of fraud. A finalized adoption may not occur even if adoption professionals provide all of the services for which a prospective adoptive family pays. An expectant mother may intend to place her child with an adoptive family, then ultimately change her mind and decide to parent before the end of the legal risk period. These are difficult situations,but they are not necessarily the result of fraud.
When it comes to adoption fraud, the biggest factor working against prospective adoptive families is their strong, “I’ll do whatever it takes” desire to adopt. Even when adoptive parents realize that something is amiss in a particular situation, their deep desire to adopt can sometimes override their instincts and logic and allow them to emotionally rationalize what is happening.
To decrease their chances of becoming victims of fraud, prospective adoptive parents must educate themselves about adoption scams, the common early warning signs that something is not right, and the actions they can take to help ensure a safe adoption.
While adoption fraud can certainly exist in international adoption, this Adoption Advocate focuses on domestic adoptions and the ways in which potential adoptive parents can recognize and avoid fraud.

Adoption Scams

An adoption scam occurs when an adoption professional, potential birth family, or prospective adoptive parent intentionally deceives another party for personal gain. The personal gain may be financial, but it may also be related to getting attention or experiencing a sense of power.
Here are just a few examples of fraudulent behavior:

An adoption professional purposefully withholds medical information from an adoptive family to push an adoption through that the family would not otherwise pursue.
An adoption professional promises an expectant mother that she will pay for her medical expenses, but then the professional reneges on the promise after parental rights are terminated.
A woman pretends to be pregnant and leads a prospective adoptive family to believe that she is considering making an adoption plan with them.
A pregnant woman promises to make an adoption plan with multiple families while accepting money for pregnancy- related expenses from all of them.
A prospective adoptive family promises an open adoption to an expectant mother so that she will make an adoption plan with them and then cuts off all contact after the adoption is finalized.

To avoid experiencing adoption fraud, prospective adoptive parents must pay close attention to the warning signs and practice due diligence when circumstances warrant.
While multiple types of adoption fraud unfortunately can and do occur, the remainder of this article focuses on fraud perpetrated against prospective adoptive parents.

Pay Attention to the Warning Signs

According to NCFA president Chuck Johnson, who spent 17 years working with hundreds of birthparents and adoptive families as the director of an adoption agency, “Many adoptive families that experience fraud recognize the seriousness of the warning signs only in hindsight. These families later acknowledge that they just didn’t pay attention to the red flags or hoped that, by ignoring them, things would somehow work out. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to get out of a bad situation or take steps to learn more if you cannot identify the red flags early on.”
It’s important to remember that a red flag or warning sign doesn’t mean that a fraud will occur. It should be a trigger for adoptive families, however, to “dig deeper,” further research the people with whom they are working, and proceed with caution.

Warning Signs of Fraud by Adoption Professionals

Here are some of the more common warning signs of adoption professionals defrauding prospective adoptive parents:

They are not responsive to calls or emails.
They never send requested and promised documents.
They pressure families inappropriately.
They suggest atypical approaches or methods that conflict with previous commitments or written agreements. At their worst, they break the law.
They don’t take the necessary steps to learn about the expectant mother and biological father, thereby taking unnecessary risks due to lack of knowledge that the adoptive family must ultimately bear.
They make guarantees about a situation or how quickly a prospective adoptive family will match and adopt.
They find the adoptive family online and present them with just the “perfect” opportunity.

Warning Signs of Fraud by Potential Birthmothers

There are also warning signs related to birthmothers who may be attempting to commit adoption fraud:

They continually make excuses for not sending proof of pregnancy, not responding to emails and messages, or missing scheduled calls or meetings.
They immediately tell a prospective adoptive family how wonderful the family is without asking many questions or getting to know them at all.
They avoid meeting with an adoption agency, pregnancy counselor, or attorney.
They always seem like they are in the middle of multiple crises, and they try to pull the prospective adoptive family into their drama.
They frequently ask the potential adoptive parents about paying for expenses.

Dig Deeper

Adoption scams existed long before the Internet, but the Internet does make it easier for scammers to find and take advantage of prospective adoptive parents. However, the Internet works both ways; prospective adoptive families can leverage technology to research both potential adoption professionals and potential birthparents.
Digging deeper isn’t just about technology, however. Many low-tech methods may sound obvious when you read them here, yet some prospective adoptive parents spend thousands of dollars and make major life decisions without doing the proper due diligence.

Low-Tech Methods

Prospective adoptive families should interview the professionals with whom they are considering working and meet them in person. It’s important to explore their values when it comes to adoption, as well as their expertise and ability to provide the required support for everyone involved. The decision to work with a particular adoption professional is too important to make without completing this basic step.
Families should also ask for references from adoption professionals and then do what many people fail to do – call them! Although the professionals will only offer satisfied clients as references, families can still ask important open-ended questions that can help provide insight into how the professional works. Make sure the references are from clients that have used the professional’s services recently.
Families should also contact a state’s bar association to research an attorney and contact a state’s licensing specialist to research an agency. It’s important to know whether others have made formal complaints against a particular professional.

High-Tech Methods

The Internet and technology in general can also play an important role in further researching potential adoption professionals and expectant parents. Here are just a few examples of what prospective adoptive families can do:

Leverage adoption-related online forums to find families that have experience with a specific adoption professional.
Publicly share non-identifying information about potential birth families (or identifying information on a one-to-one basis) to check whether the birth families are working with others or match the characteristics of prior scammers.
Search online for past litigation against a particular adoption professional.
Search for geotag data (latitude and longitude information) on digital picture files that potential birthparents send or identify a potential birthparent’s general location from her Internet Protocol (IP) address to corroborate other statements that she has made.

Three Keys to Avoiding Adoption Fraud

There are many ways to substantially reduce the chances of being defrauded. Here are three of the most important tips:

Listen to your inner voice – your gut. If you sense that a particular situation is not quite right, follow your instincts and further research the situation or walk away.
Acquire REAL proof of pregnancy. Stories about doctor ’s appointments and how the baby is growing are not proof of pregnancy. An ultrasound image with the correct name and date on it is also not proof. Even “looking pregnant” is not proof. Prospective adoptive parents should seek written documentation from a doctor, and then follow up with the doctor ’s office to ensure its legitimacy.
Limit or eliminate the amount of cash provided to potential birth families. Sometimes it’s legal to pay for pregnancy-related expenses as part of the adoption, but that doesn’t mean that prospective adoptive parents have to provide the expectant mother with cash.¹ Instead, providers should be paid directly (e.g., pay the landlord directly to cover rent; pay the hospital or clinic directly to cover medical expenses; pay the utility company directly if the birthmother needs help paying her electric bill).

Conclusion

Finally, although it is important to be educated on this subject, prospective adoptive families should not lose sight of the fact that there are many more expectant parents genuinely exploring adoption as an option and many more ethical adoption professionals trying to help than there are people preying on hopeful adoptive parents. Be aware, but not paranoid.

FSA Education Mini-Conference 1-4PM this Saturday, May 21st at the LDSFS Renton Office

2011-05-16T22:18:00.000-07:00

Whether you are a new applicant in need of Education Hours or an Approved Applicant looking for more knowledge of birth parents or you a desire a new set of eyes to review your online profile from a birth parent's perspective, Saturday's Mini Conference is sure to be helpful and insightful. If you are planning on attending, it is important that you RSVP to FSA at: families.supporting.adoption@gmail.com. Anyone is welcome. Note: If you live in Alaska and want to join by phone, please let FSA know via email soon so that the Meeting Place phone connection can be set up.

Saturday, May 21st, 2011 1:00 - 4:00 pm, Renton, WA

Education Mini Conference

"Bridging the Gap Between Birthparents and Adoptive Couples"

Working Together to Make a Positive Adoption Experience

Session #1 The Positive Side of Open (1:00- 2:20)

A panel of Birthmothers and Adoptive Couples discuss how an open adoption has blessed their lives and the life of the child they love.

Session #2 Chatting with Birthmoms (2:25-2:55)

This is a great opportunity for you to chat with a group of birthmoms in an informal setting. They could look over your profile for you or answer that burning question you may have; so come ready with an open heart and questions for them.

Session #3 Understanding Your Birthmom (3:00- 4:00)

A panel of birthmothers will discuss ways to work through the challenges and blessings of adoption, hopefully without stepping on any toes.

How's Your "It's About Love" Online Profile???

2011-05-14T17:43:00.000-07:00

Check out this great article from the Alaska FSA Blog written by Mahana regarding online profiles for current adoption applicants of LDS Family Services:

Snap, Crackle and POP.

I want to touch upon the thing that is always on the mind when doing this process--the adoption profile! It's like your resume--you want it polished, perfect and memorable.

It probably comes to no surprise that there are lots of other families out there also hoping to adopt that are just like you--charming, witty, educated, friendly, etc etc. So HOW do you make that great quality that many others have, STAND OUT for you and actually make an impression??

In reality, you are courting these birth parents and must make that lasting impression. How well you present yourself can be the difference between you being chosen or not. This is not to say that the Lord doesn't have His hand in it, but faith without works...well you know how that goes. Besides, it doesn't hurt to make your fabulous self look even better right?

The Paper Profile:
I know LDSFS no longer requires a paper copy and in this digital age we are doing less with paper in general but sometimes a birthparent will enjoy having a hard copy to carry around and glance over. When we first started adoption, the online profile was very VERY limited in size and so we were required to do a paper one and provide 15 copies of it. The first birthmother who chose us was thrilled when I brought her a copy of our paper profile during our first meeting--she didn't even know that was a option to get. With the two adoptions following that, we made sure to have an updated hard copy of our profile to give. Our daughter Leila's birthmother told me that it was great receiving it in the mail and it gave her comfort having something in her hand to glance through, especially since she chose us 3 weeks before giving birth! So it's something you might want to consider putting together.

For those of you expert scrapbookers, it'll be probably easy but remember that if the birthparent changes their mind, you probably won't get your hard copy back. So make sure it's in an easy and cheap way to recreate. Nowadays there are so many amazing and simple computer programs to glam up your profile. My greatest tool was Microsoft's Publisher when we did our 1st profile. You can add graphics, color, pictures, etc to make your profile modern and fresh. Then it was as easy as hitting 'print' and making sure I had colored ink.

The LDS Online Profile:
Granted, LDSFS online profile is pretty basic. But one thing I've heard mentioned by adoption experts we talked to while creating our profile, make sure your pictures show your face! All is well and good that there is a pic of you doing something, but make sure there is at least one good one with your faces! Even better if it's not too contrived or posy.

Due to the limited size/amount of the pictures you can put on LDSFS, you may want to look into setting up a web album. Picasa or Flickr is free and simple and you can upload all the pictures you want for a potential birth mother to view and add that web address to your online profile on LDS Family's website. Everyone loves to see pictures and this is where you can put all the fun ones of your family for a potential birth mother to fall in love with.

The Internet:
Welcome to the digital age. Almost everyone has access to the internet so why not capitalize on that fact? If you are a website wizard, then I'm jealous and we need to chat but for those of you who aren't... Blogging is easy and there are so many places out there offering free backgrounds, widgets, and accessories that can enhance your best qualities. Think of it as your LDS Online Profile after an Extreme Makeover. It allows you space to be more creative, add pictures, and all sorts of random things. Remember it's all about the presentation. Check out your favorite website and focus on what it is that makes it so appealing. Is it the color scheme? Is there music? Fun graphics?

The only thing I would caution here is to strictly make an Adoption Blog/website and don't have it link to your personal blog if you have one. In fact, go in your settings and make sure any blogs outside of the adoption one are not linked to it. By making it just an adoption blog, you don't have to worry about your personal life all of a sudden being put under a microscope. Instead, you have each post specifically address topics like hobbies, family, where you live etc. Things that can be tweaked here and there but won't need constant updating. You also never know what personal post might be misconstrued by a birthparent on your personal blog so it is also best to make sure your adoption blog does not link to your personal one. A profile is just meant to peak the birthparent's interest to then seek you out to learn more. So find that balance between sharing and still maintaining some alluring mystery that makes them want to know more:)

In the end make sure your profile makes you stand out! You may even want to get input from your friends and family. They know you the best and will be able to tell you whether or not your profile truly reflects you or is a snore.

Share with us some fun things you've done with your profile! Comment or email us and we'll get it online.

Girls Night Out -- Friday, May 13th at 7:30 PM (Tacoma or Belleuve)

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Friday, May 13^th – Girls-Night-Out Dutch Dinner - In two locations so that you can pick the one closest to you! Please RSVP to families.supporting.adoption@gmail.com ASAP or at least by the day before (Thursday, 5/12) so that we save room for you. Don't forget to include which location you will be attending!

Tacoma – Meet at Red Robin near the Tacoma Mall at 7:30pm.

3901 S. Steele St.
Tacoma, WA 98409

http://www.redrobin.com

Bellevue – Meet at Barrio Restaurant near Bellevue Square Mall at 7:30pm.

10650 NE 4th St.
Bellevue, WA 98004

http://www.barriorestaurant.com/index.html

Join us for a late dinner or just come for dessert. This is a great restaurant with a Mexican themed menu and lots of great choices. We would love to know if you are thinking of attending so we can plan for you in the reservation count!

There is a small parking lot behind Barrio or you can park on the street or at Bellevue Mall and walk up to the restaurant.

Looking for More Adoption Information?

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Adoptivefamilies.com is a good resource for learning more about adoption. Check it out!

The annual Adoption Guide is now available from Adoptive Families Magazine! And you can check it out for free online!
If you will want to order the 2011 print edition of The Adoption Guide, visit HERE.

You'll find details on:
+ how to adopt -- and how to afford it
+ the most-up-to-date agency and attorney listings
+ surrogacy and donor options
+ hiring an attorney
+ best books and websites
+ choosing the adoption route that's right for you, and so much more!

It covers a wide listing of topics that we all could benefit from understanding just a little more about. So check it out if you get a chance!

National FSA Conference in Utah recently anncounced the Saturday Keynote Speaker, Dr. Karyn Purvis

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The National FSA Conference on Friday, August 12th and Saturday, August 13th in Utah just announced their Saturday Keynote Speaker Dr. Karyn Purvis. She is well known in the adoption field and will be a great asset to the conference. It is always a very well done conference and worth making a trip to Utah for a visit. Registration will be available soon so save the date and start planning your trip!

Dr. Karyn Purvis earned her doctorate in developmental psychology, specializing in serving at-risk children, and she has spent the last ten years developing research-based interventions for those children. She is a former foster mother with a personal and professional calling to create a welcoming, loving environment for children who come from “hard places.” She serves as an expert witness in court cases of child abuse, testifies for state and national legislation, and speaks frequently to national and international groups. Recent trips have taken her to varied national groups from trainings for judges and CPS workers, to training international parents and professionals in England, Iceland, Scotland, Romania, Rwanda, and Ethiopia. She has eight grand children, two of which are adopted.

Dr. Purvis received her undergraduate degree at TCU and continued on to receive her masters and doctorate in Developmental Psychology from TCU as well. During her time at TCU, Dr. Purvis developed and directed (1999 – present) the Hope Connection, a research and intervention summer day camp for adopted children. She continued her work with this population as the director of the Adoption Project from 2003 -2006. Work from these projects has been featured in NBC Dateline, Fort Worth Weekly, Newsweek, Parents Magazine, and other popular parent magazines. She and her colleague, Dr. David Cross, write for scientific journals, parents magazines, and have co-authored a feature book for McGraw-Hill titled, The Connected Child: Bringing Hope and Healing to your Adoptive Family, which was released Spring 2007. Within six months of publication, The Connected Child earned rank as a best-seller in adoption books. She and her colleague, Dr. David Cross were recently honored with the Dallas business journal Heroes of Healthcare Award. Dr. Purvis was awarded the T. Berry Brazelton, M.D. Infant Mental Health Advocacy Award, a state-wide award for child advocacy. She was also awarded the title of Distinguished Fellow in Adoption and Child Development by the National Council for Adoption. Dr. Purvis was appointed Presiding Officer of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Committee on Licensing Standards by Governor Rick Perry.

Great Article from AFFEC Heart Gallery Adoption Agency Published April 2011

2011-04-27T18:56:00.000-07:00

What is adoption from Foster Care? Is it for us? How do we start?

Of the estimated 424,000 children who have been separated from their birth families and placed in foster care, about 114,500 can never return to their original home. They need the nurturing and support that a permanent family can provide, and deserve a chance to grow up feeling secure and loved. That is where special needs adoption comes in. It is not so much about finding a child for a family, but instead finding the most suitable family for each waiting child.

Defining Special Needs

"Special needs" is a phrase used to classify children who, for various reasons, have a harder time finding families who are willing to adopt them. Often special needs include factors such as age, background, and physical, mental, or emotional challenges. Typically, children who have special needs have been separated from their birth families, live in foster care, are school-aged, and may have physical or mental disabilities.

Some children have physical or mental conditions that require special treatment; others have emotional scars from abuse or neglect. Children may also be classified as having special needs if they are part of a sibling group that is being placed for adoption together, or members of a minority group. Every state sets its own special needs definition.

Step 1: Learn All You Can about Adoption

Do your research, search online, talk to others, and dig, dig, dig!

Step 2: Complete a Self-Assessment

Children don't need perfect parents, just one or two individuals willing to meet the unique challenges of parenting and make a lifetime commitment to caring for and nurturing their children. One of the advantages of special needs adoption is that almost any responsible adult can become an adoptive parent. Prospective parents do not have to be rich, married, under 40, highly educated, or home owners to adopt. Far more important are personal characteristics like:

Foster Care and Adoption Self-Assessment Guide :

The guide is not state-specific and is a useful tool to help individuals make informed decisions about fostering or adopting a child.

In addition, before seriously contemplating special needs adoption, prospective parents must honestly evaluate their desire and ability to successfully parent children who have troubling pasts and uncertain futures. Many children who become available for adoption at older ages have not received the early care that kids need to develop a strong sense of security, trust, and self-esteem. Many also suffer from conditions caused by past trauma, or prenatal exposure to alcohol or drugs. Children whose backgrounds include traumatic experiences, abuse, and/or neglect may exhibit symptoms of distress.

Fortunately, through therapy, medication, and consistent specialized care, children can also find ways to overcome or at least better cope with many of these challenges. Almost every child will put his or her new adoptive parents through a period of testing to see if the parents are truly committed or just waiting for an excuse to desert the child as others have before.

To improve your chances of successfully adopting a child who has special needs, be prepared to offer a home environment that combines extra love, support, and attention with clear structure and consistent limit-setting. Parents should also be ready to actively advocate for their child at school, with peers, and within the community. It can be immensely helpful for parents to have a support network or belong to an adoptive parent support group.

Step 3: Decide What Type of Adoption You Want to Pursue

Even if you have already decided to adopt a child who has special needs, you must still make a number of choices about your adoption. Most importantly, you need to decide what type of child you are willing to bring into your family. What disabilities and challenges (physical, mental, emotional, or behavioral) can you comfortably handle? What age range, background, and ethnicity would fit best within your household and community? Are you open to helping your adopted child maintain contact with some of his or her birth relatives? Can you welcome a group of two or more siblings into your home?

Next, you should consider whether you would rather work through a public or a private adoption agency. Though most children who have special needs become available for adoption through the public foster care system, both public and private agencies can help you locate a child or sibling group to adopt.

In general, the differences between public and private agencies can be summarized as follows:

Public Agencies:

Charge nothing or very little for adoptions
May respond more slowly to inquiries; they are more bound by current budget issues and therefore a study itself may take considerably longer or in some cases, they may not be accepting "general applicant" families
Place mostly children who have special needs
Typically have flexible eligibility requirements for adoptive parents
Often will only help you with children with in your state

Private Agencies:

Usually charge more than public agencies
May respond more quickly to inquiries
Have access to diverse populations of available children
May target specific groups of parents for adoption (based on factors such as age, race, religion, etc.)
Depending on the agency (again you really need to ask lots of questions), they may help you with children on a national basis

Step 4: Investigate Ways to Cover Likely Adoption Expenses

Many agencies do not charge service fees to families who adopt children with special needs. However, you will need a home study, and because adoption is a legal process, you may need an attorney. The cost of a home study can vary from $0 to $3,000. Attorney fees and court costs can range from $1,000 to $6,000, and special needs adoptive families often incur additional costs for medical services, counseling, etc.--costs that may continue throughout the child's lifetime. Fortunately, due to federal and employer-initiated programs, parents have several options for covering the cost of special needs adoption.

How to pay for an Adoption before and after:

Many loans are project- or item-specific, but some can be used for whatever the borrower wants. Two such flexible loans are home equity loans (money borrowed against the value of your house) and insurance loans (money borrowed against the value of your life insurance policies). These loans come with relatively low interest rates and a choice of payment terms. To learn more, contact a bank or mortgage broker, or your life insurance company.

Step 5: Selecting an Adoption Agency

To find as many agencies to choose from as possible:

Visit the web, and search for adoption agencies in your state
Contact your State's Department of Human Services
Look in the Yellow Pages
Reach out to adoptive parent support groups or adoptive parents

Finding the Right Agency for You:

To find a public or private agency that is a good fit for you, your values, and your unique situation, compare information from several agencies. Before selecting an agency, take the initiative to learn more about them by interviewing agency representatives by phone or in person. For example, you may want to ask:

Who can adopt from the agency?
What kinds of children does the agency place (ages, backgrounds, etc.)?
Where do the agency's children come from, and how many are legally free for adoption?
How long, on average, must one wait for a child? What is the time lapse between application and placement?
What are the agency's requirements concerning forms, classes, fees, and visits?
How much does a completed adoption cost--in total and part by part?
Can the agency help applicants locate sources of financial aid, including subsidies?
What are the home study requirements?
How many (and what type of) children has the agency placed in each of the past few years?
Have any of the agency's adoptions fallen through or disrupted in the past five years? What does the agency do to make sure that adoptions don't disrupt after placement?
What is the agency's policy toward applicants who do not accept the first child offered?
What services--such as parenting classes, support group activities, access to therapy and counseling, and respite care--will the agency provide before and after a child is placed in your home?
Can the agency provide references from parents who recently adopted from the agency? (Your state's Adoption Specialist may also know if complaints have been filed against the agency.)

For a list of Oregon Adoption Agencies, click here

Step 6: Let Your Agency Know You Are Serious about Adopting

When you call an agency to let staff there know you are interested in adopting, the person you talk to may ask a series of screening questions or simply volunteer to send literature about the agency. If you want to adopt relatively soon, find out how you can get the process started.

One common first step is an orientation meeting or training session for prospective adoptive parents. At the meeting or training you will likely:

Meet social workers and learn about policies and practices regarding adoption
Learn what types of children are available for adoption through the agency
Learn about foster care
Be asked to examine your feelings about adoption, and judge if adoption is right for you
Gain insight into the challenges and rewards of adoptive parenting
Obtain application materials

Step 7: Complete an Adoption Application

If possible, attend an orientation session before filling out application paperwork so you are confident in the agency's ability to meet your needs. Application fees are often non-refundable, even if you decide to work through a different agency or change your mind about adopting.

If you find that the application process is hard to understand, ask the agency or another adoptive parent for help. Don't let the challenges of completing forms keep you from pursuing adoption.

Find out how long it will take for the agency to process your application once you have completed the forms and paid the fee. Ask when you should next expect to hear from the agency, and how you can schedule and prepare for a home study.

Step 8: Begin the Home Study Process

A home study can loosely be defined as an educational process designed to help your social worker learn more about your ability to parent and provide a stable home, to teach you about adoption and its effect on children and families, and to prepare you to parent a child whose experiences and history are very different from your own. Everyone who hopes to adopt must have a completed home study. Depending on the agency, the worker, and the prospective parents' cooperation, the process can take from two months to a year.

Heart Gallery Adoption Agency

Oregon Families Contact: Angela@afamilyforeverychild.org

Out of Oregon Families Contact: Hannah Williamson info@afamilyforeverychild.org

Items You May Need For a Home Study:

Specific requirements for home studies vary by state and agency, so be sure to ask for a list of the items and information your agency needs.

The following items are commonly required during the home study process:

An autobiographical statement--a statement you create about your life history
Certified copies of birth certificates for you, your partner, and any children
Certified copy of your marriage license
Certified copies of divorce decrees
The death certificate of a former spouse
Certified copies of the finalization or adoption decrees for any adopted children
Child abuse and criminal record clearances, or a notarized statement from the police declaring that you and other adults in your home have faced no felony convictions
Income verification (may include tax returns, W-2 forms, and paycheck stubs)
A statement of health provided by a physician, which might include lab test results
Written references from friends, employers, neighbors, etc.
Finger prints

At some point in the process, you may also need to pay for the home study. The cost through a public agency may be quite low or even free; other agencies typically charge between $3,000 and $4,000 for a completed study. (national average)

Questions You May Be Asked:

During home study meetings with your worker, you can expect to answer questions about your background, your education, your job history, your marriage, your leisure activities, your religion (particularly for religiously affiliated agencies), and your experiences with children.

The goal of home studies is to help agencies locate the best home for each child it places, and make good matches between parents and children. If you have questions about your study, ask your social worker or agency.

Step 9: Attend Adoption and Parenting Classes

Public agencies commonly require pre-placement training to acquaint prospective parents with issues that can arise after a child or sibling group is placed with them. School-aged adoptees bring not only unique special needs, but also a history of life experiences that will affect their interactions with adoptive parents, new siblings, schoolmates, and others. Issues related to disability, culture, early abuse, and a child's birth family should all be discussed before a child is placed in your home.

Even if your agency does not require training, learn all you can about adoption issues. The more you know, the better.

In Oregon, this is Foundation Classes

Step 10: Begin Searching for a Child

If you adopt through an agency, learn how the agency will conduct a search. What criteria do they use to match children with families? Are they willing or able to search outside your immediate area for a child or youth? If you become interested in a child or youth from another state, will the agency help you to move forward with adopting the child or youth?

To keep the process moving, stay in close contact with your agency and offer to help in the search process by reviewing photo listings, attending matching parties, or updating your parent profile.

Please contact us for a list of photo listing sites Nationwide-(make sure your agency will help you with children Nationwide)

Step 11: Select a Child or Sibling Group to Bring into Your Family

Before agreeing to adopt any child or sibling group, learn as much as you can about the child--including prenatal care and exposure to drugs or alcohol, birth parents' medical histories, attachments to foster families or other relatives, foster care placements, relationships with siblings, interests and talents, etc. Most agencies want adoptive parents to get to know children before agreeing to adopt. If the child has certain medical conditions or other disabilities, decide if your family is prepared to address issues that may arise from the child's situation.

Step 12: Prepare for Your Child's Arrival

Anticipate how the addition of a new family member will affect your life and plan accordingly. Depending on your situation and the child you adopt, you may need to:

Update the family's insurance
Get and keep a copy of the child's original birth certificate
Prepare to get a new social security number and birth certificate
Learn as much as you can about the child's habits and personality
Keep items that tie to the child's past
Make your house child-friendly
Inform your other children about likely changes
Negotiate an adoption assistance agreement
Line up services for your child and yourself

Step 13: Bring the Child Home

When a new child is placed in your home, you will assume temporary legal custody. For a few months, while your family undergoes the inevitable adjustment period, your agency will monitor how the placement is proceeding.

The monitoring period typically lasts about six months to a year. During this time, the worker may call or visit to assess how you and your child are adjusting, and to answer questions. If all goes well, at the end of the monitoring period the agency will recommend to the court that the adoption be approved.

Step 14: File a Petition to Adopt

An adoption petition is the document filed in court that initiates the legal aspect of adoption. Through the petition, adoptive parents formally request permission to adopt a specific child.

Step 15: Make it Legal: Finalize the Adoption

Your adoption is not legally complete until your newly created family goes through the finalization process. Finalization hearings usually take place within a year after a child is placed in the home. Before scheduling a hearing, check with your agency to make sure you have completed the necessary paperwork. If you are missing required documents, the finalization could be delayed.

The finalization hearing is a judicial proceeding, sometimes held in the judge's chambers, during which adoptive parents are granted permanent legal custody of their adopted child. The hearing, which usually lasts only 30 to 60 minutes, is designed to establish the legality of the new family unit, and confirm that the adoptive parents are willing and able to provide for their new child.

How to Pay for an Adoption

Newer adoption-related foundations also offer financial assistance to those hoping to adopt. The organizations listed below (among others) allow or encourage parents who are hoping to adopt children from foster care to apply for assistance:

Brittany's HOPE Foundation

Fore Adoption Foundation

Gift of Adoption Fund grants@giftsofadoption.org

Little Flowers Foundation

National Adoption Foundation (NAF)

Employer Assistance

Employers who offer adoption benefits may provide workers with:

Direct cash assistance for adoption expenses
Reimbursement of approved adoption expenses
Paid or unpaid leave (beyond federal leave requirements established through the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993)
Resource and referral services

To request a list of employers who provide adoption benefits or learn more about workplace adoption benefits, contact the Adoption Friendly Workplace Program, an initiative of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. Call 877-777-4222, send an e-mail to:

info@adoptionfriendlyworkplace.org or click here

Military Reimbursements

Active-duty military personnel are eligible for a reimbursement of up to $2,000 per child adopted to cover one-time adoption-related costs such as application and court fees or travel expenses. No more than $5,000 can be reimbursed in any one year, and payments are only issued after adoptions are finalized.

Children who have disabilities may also be able to access up to $1,000 per month under the military's Program for Persons with Disabilities. Through the Exceptional Family Member Program, families with children who have special needs will be assigned to duty stations where the child's needs can be met.

Tax Credit and Exclusions

In March 2010, the adoption tax credit was updated and extended. Parents who finalize adoptions in tax year 2010 can claim up to $13,170 for each child they adopt. For adoptions finalized in 2010 and 2011, the credit is also refundable. That is, families can use the credit to offset taxes and then, if their tax liability is low, receive the balance of the credit as a refund.

Adoption Subsidies

If you adopt a U.S. child who has special needs, he or she may be eligible for a federal or state adoption subsidy (also known as adoption assistance). Adoption assistance payments are designed to help offset the short- and long-term costs associated with adopting children who need special services. In general, children adopted from the custody of state or county child welfare agencies (or private agencies under contract with the state who provide services for foster children) are eligible for adoption assistance benefits.

Benefits available through subsidy programs vary by state, but commonly include:

Monthly cash payments--up to an amount equal to the foster care payment the state would have made if the child were still in basic family foster care
Medical assistance--Medicaid benefits are provided through the federal program and some state programs. States must also provide health insurance for children whose parents have a signed adoption assistance agreement with the state if the children's special needs are based on a need for medical, mental health, or rehabilitative care
Social services--post-adoption services such as respite care, counseling, day care, etc.
Nonrecurring adoption expenses--a one-time reimbursement (up to $2,000) for adoption fees, court costs, attorney fees, physical or psychological examinations, and other expenses related to the legal adoption of a child who has special needs

Before adopting a child who has special needs, ask your agency about federal and state subsidies.

Visit the Heart Gallery Website at: http://www.lanecountyheartgallery.org/

Thank You!

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We want to give a great big "Thank You" to Kris Allen and Kelly Morgan who taught our "Adopting a Child with Special Needs" class on Thursday. Although we were few in number, the information was invaluable to the couples that attended. You can't always choose whether your child will have special needs or not; so, thank you for the great information and support that was given.

Don't forget that next month, FSA will not have a Thursday night class, but rather a Saturday afternoon Mini Conference on Saturday, May 21st from 1-4 pm at LDSFS in Renton. More information can be found under the education tab.

FSA Adoption Education this Thursday 4/21 in the Renton LDSFS or by Phone (if needed).

2011-04-19T13:41:00.000-07:00

When: Thursday, April 21st, 2011 from 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Where: LDSFS Office in Renton - 220 South Third Place, Renton, WA 98057, (425) 228.0074 (Or to join by phone, contact a member of the adoption team or your caseworker to make arrangements.)

Class: Adopting a Child with Special Needs

Presenters: Kris Allen and Kelly Morgan

You were so careful when checking all the boxes, you knew what you could handle and what you couldn't. But what happens, when years after adopting, you find out there wasn't a box for the challenge you were given. Come and listen to two awesome moms, one with an adopted child with physical special needs and the other with two adopted children with emotional special needs, that have loved, taught, encouraged and fought for and learned a few things along the way.

FSA Alaska's Updated Blog -- Thanks Mahana!

2011-04-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

Did you know that FSA Alaska has their own Alaska specific blog?? It was recently updated with a new focus and those living in Alaska will find it a great resource. We encourage you to follow both this blog and the Alaska FSA Blog (if you live in Alaska).

Here's what was written in the top post to give you and idea of the vision:

FSA Alaska is excited to start an online forum for the LDS Family Services and Families Supporting Adoption in Alaska. Due to how far spread out Alaska adoptive couples are, we will mostly be geared towards getting you answers and any paperwork you may need to make your adoption process go as smoothly {and quickly!} as possible. We will keep you informed of any telephone conferences that you can participate in, as well as in person orientations and meetings.

So feel free to browse the links. We are still a work in progress but we can only get better with your help! We are here to better serve you and to share our knowledge of adoption!

Save the Date for FSA Summer Beach Days -- Saturday, June 18th, 2011 and/or Saturday, June 25th, 2011

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Mark your Calendar and Plan to Enjoy the Beach with FSA on Either Saturday, June 18th or Saturday, June 25th!

When: Saturday, June 18th (Carkeek Beach Park in Seattle). And/Or Ocean Shores on Saturday, June 25th at 11:30am until whenever.

Where: Both Carkeek Park in Seattle (6/18) or Ocean Shores, WA (6/25). (Choose where to attend based on your location and preferences. Ocean Shores has sandy beaches, but at Carkeek Park it will be low tide and there will be plenty of ocean life to view as well as a great playground. Groups will meet up at both locations. More details on that as the date gets closer).

Who: Anyone is welcome. We would love to mingle with others interested in and supportive of adoption. Hopefully some birth-parents, adoptive couples, adoptees and friends of adoption will attend!

Be prepared for Washington Weather. We will hold the event rain or shine. Plan to bring whatever you need to enjoy a day at the beach (layered clothing, umbrellas, rain gear, sunscreen, lunch, rubber boots, buckets, shovels and your beachcomber's guidebook).

If you live far from Ocean Shores and far from Seattle (perhaps in Northern Washington, near the Sound or in Alaska) and want to host a beach day in your area this summer, please let us know and we will gladly spread the word!

Contact FSA at: families.supporting.adoption@gmail.com to host a beach event closer to your home or with questions. PS: We are also seeking volunteers to host summer park play-dates so if you have a favorite park in your area and are willing to host a get-together in your area let us know that too. Hope to see you soon!

Save the Date for Zions Camp - Labor Day Weekend September 1-5th, 2011

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Zions Camp Entrance.

Are you free Labor Day weekend this September? Do you love to camp? If you answered yes to these questions PLEASE come join us at the LDS Church owned ZIONS Campground in Belfair, WA for a SUPER fun weekend! To see some pics of the fun we had last year CLICK HERE.

We are in the process of gathering information regarding the number of people interested in attending. If you have a preference for either a tent site or a communal cabin with up to 16 bunks please let us know. Sometime in the future, we will be requiring reservations and payment to attend. For now, Save the Date and Invite Your Friends and Family! Please leave your comments regarding preferences below this blog post or email Families Supporting Adoption directly at: families.supporting.adoption@gmail.com. Below are a few more details...

When: Thursday, September 1st through Monday, September 5th, 2011 (Come anytime, stay as few or as many days as your schedule allows.)

Who is invited: All adoptive applicants, families and friends. (Birth parents are having their own retreat at ZIONS the following weekend).

Cost: It depends a bit on where you choose to sleep. There are cabins and tent sites. We are hoping to be in the same general area (as Zion's Camp is quite large). The cost will likely vary between $7 - $12 a person, per night (with no charge for children under the age of 3). This would include a campsite (or communal cabin) for your family and breakfast with FSA on Saturday morning. The rest of the weekend you will be in charge of your own food and have an open schedule to do as you please and enjoy the facilities. There is running water (flushing toilets, sinks and showers); however, showers cost .50 cents each and can be paid for at the front office.

What is there to do: All of the recreation at ZIONS CAMP is free, and here is a list of some of the fun things they have to offer...

Canoeing, paddle boats and row boats
Swimming in the lake
Large field for sports and a basketball court (bring soccer balls, basketballs, nets etc. or borrow from the front office)
A HUGE tree house, and play equipment including a ROPE swing and obstacle course
Fishing (no license required, just bring your own tackle box)
Archery and horse shoes
Nature walks
Frisbee course (bring your own disks, or you can borrow them from the front office)

Additional information:

There is a Walmart less than 30 minutes away in case you forget something or run out of ice.
Befair, WA does have an LDS Branch that meets Sunday morning, if you are staying over Sunday and would like more information on that just ask when you check in. All lake activities are closed for the Sabbath as well as the front office.
You get one arm load of firewood a day for free. Each additional arm load does cost a small amount, but you are welcome to bring your own wood as well.
If you have any further questions just ask!

Here is a link to their website: Zions Camp's Web Site.

Sports Court.

Mosiah's Swings.

Adoption Today -- Digital Edition Available Now!

2011-04-06T21:07:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the full-featured digital edition of Adoption TODAY magazine
Attached is a direct link to the digital edition. View Publication Access to the digital edition is email sensitive. After opening the magazine, on page 10 you will be prompted to Register in order to view the rest of the magazine. Please enter your subscribed email address in both the User Name and Password spaces and press Enter from your keyboard.

From the toolbar at the top of the site you can access the past issues of AT by clicking on the Archive tab and choosing an issue from the cover images. You may download or print pages from any or all back issues.

If you experience any difficulty in accessing the digital edition, please contact Subscriber Services at louis@adoptinfo.net or 970-686-7412. Thank you for your interest in Adoption TODAY magazine!

FSA Board Meeting Thursday, April 7th 7-8:30 pm

2011-04-05T18:51:00.000-07:00

If you are on the Western Washington FSA Board (or want to be) we would love to have you join us this Thursday, April7th from 7-8:30 PM in the Renton LDSFS Office. You are also welcome to join by phone. We are actively seeking help especially related to planning fun FSA events where we can meet to get to know each other, be advocates for adoption and provide our kids with opportunities to meet other children who are adopted. If you'd like to join the call (even if just for a bit) email our chapter to find out how at: families.supporting.adoption@gmail.com.

Tawnia is Heading to "The Last Frontier"

2011-04-03T19:47:00.000-07:00

Did you know that our LDSFS office also supports those living in Alaska. They are officially part of our FSA Chapter (although we are hoping that soon their FSA program will grow and that they will have their own Alaskan version).

Tawnia Singleton, MS, LMHC will be in Alaska from April 7th -9th, 2011 and hopes to meet with Adoptive Applicants and anyone interested in becoming involved with FSA Alaska. If you would like to set up an appointment with Tawnia please contact her directly at 425-228-0074 or via email at:singletonta@ldsfamilyservices.org.

You may also contact Elder Tolman (LDSFS Church Service Missionary in Alaska) for additional information at: tolmanwa@ldsfamilyservices.org.

Two Legally Free (Washington State) Children Looking to Join Their Forever Families

2011-04-01T21:12:00.000-07:00

1. This little boy, who is 6.5 years-old and in the 1st grade, (pictured in the photo below on the right of his siblings) is legally free if you are interested or know someone that might be. (Tawnia has access to the placement information. The little boy's State Caseworkers are hopeful that his new adoptive family will be willing to retain sibling contact and the current adoptive parents of the little boy's 3 younger siblings are receptive to continued sibling contact.) The little boy would not have to go to a couple who are currently foster licensed. He is available and the adoptive family would work with the State, but they would do a transition. He would also come with adoption support money. They are specifically looking for an LDS home so that all of the children will have the same faith.

2. Also, there is a 12 – 13 year-old little girl that has been in the system and is looking for a LDS home; she is baptized and has been in an LDS home until recently.

If you are interested in either situation, please let me know. Tawnia Singleton, MS, LMHC

SingletonTA@ldsfamilyservices.org

Like to Plan Parties and Community Events -- FSA Needs You!

2011-03-31T19:42:00.000-07:00

Are you grateful for adoption and want to share your talents? Our Western Washington Chapter is looking for Board Members who are interested in helping as Outreach Coordinator and Activities Supervisor.

The Outreach Coordinator plans events in the community teaching others about the positive aspects of adoption. (An example of a past events was setting up an FSA booth at the Mariners Game on Adoption night).

The Activities Supervisor would work with Zone Leaders to plan fun FSA events in various areas throughout Western Washington. (Such as play dates, family picnics, girls nights out, BBQ's, Camping Trips, Mariner's Game Outings etc).

Both are great ways you can learn more about adoption and help others to learn more. We all have a role to play in keeping adoption as an option. Please consider helping. Even if you can only manage one event, your help will have a significant impact on the positive image of adoption. Please consider supporting Families Supporting Adoption. Email FSA and tell us how you can help at: families.supporting.adoption@gmail.com.

The Minnesota / Texas Adoption Research Project (MTARP) -- A study regarding the effects of openness in adoption

2011-03-29T13:42:00.000-07:00

Do you wonder if openness is adoption is a good idea? The UMass Amherst Department of Psychology conducted the Minnesota / Texas Adoption Research Project (MTARP) which is a longitudinal research study that focuses on the consequences of variations in openness in adoption arrangements for all members of the adoptive kinship network: birthmothers, adoptive parents, and adopted children, and for the relationships within these family systems. The project was begun in the mid-1980's and contains some very interesting findings.

To view the study in it's entirety CLICK HERE.

Here is a brief sample of a few of their findings:

Birthmothers in fully disclosed adoptions had lower adoption-related grief and loss than those in confidential adoption.

When birthmothers' level of openness was controlled, as satisfaction with openness increased, birthmothers' current global level of grief decreased.

Looking longitudinally, we found that higher degrees of perceived compatibility maintained from middle childhood to adolescence were associated with higher degrees of psychosocial engagement (defined as adolescents' active use of inner resources to interact positively with others in family, peer, and community contexts) and attachment to parents and lower problem behavior.

Adolescents demonstrating integrated adoptive identity had coherent, integrated narratives in which adoptive identity was highly salient and viewed positively. For example, one teen said, "When I was little I worried I was placed because she didn't want me. Now I know I was placed because she cared enough."

When compared to parents in confidential adoptions, those in fully disclosed adoptions generally reported higher levels of acknowledgment of the adoption, more empathy toward the birthparents and child, stronger sense of permanence in the relationship with their child as projected into the future, and less fear that the birthmother might try to reclaim her child.

The Minnesota / Texas Adoption Research Project (MTARP) was begun by Harold Grotevant, Ph.D., the Rudd Family Foundation Chair in Psychology at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, and Ruth G. McRoy, Ph.D., Research Professor and the Ruby Lee Piester Centennial Professor Emerita at the University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work. Again the study can be viewed at the following link: http://www.psych.umass.edu/adoption/

North West Regional Conference - Which was Held in November 2010

2011-03-28T17:28:00.000-07:00

In November, it was our Chapter's honor to host the 2010 Northwest Regional FSA Conference, held in Federal Way, Washington . Two days full of training, education support, and socializing brought close to 150 members together from all over the region including Washington, Oregon, Alaska, and Idaho.

Prospective and current adoptive applicants, along with adoptive parents and birth parents alike, joined together to celebrate adoption. Education courses were offered on a variety of topics such as: adopting special needs children and children from Foster Care, legal aspects of adoption, and networking. Birth parents had the opportunity to gather together and share experiences and learn from each other as well.

The fireside opened the eyes of those who attended to ways of overcoming adversity in adoption while the key note broadcast, from National FSA Conference in July, reminded everyone of what a miracle adoption can be.

With over 500 hours of service, from 25 different volunteers, our conference was a HUGE success! Thank you to all those who helped pull it off, we couldn’t have done it without your help!

Are you a Sports Fan? Please, Help our Chapter Join a Community Team!

2011-03-27T11:12:00.000-07:00

American Fork FSA Baseball Team

As part of our FSA Chapter's efforts toward outreach, we want to join a community softball or baseball recreation league. But, we have no idea where to start. Would you be interested in helping us create a team? Here is a link to the blog post about the American Fork Chapter's experience: Team Adoption (American Fork Chapter)

We could have a children's team, COED or a male only team. (I'm probably saying this all wrong since I know nothing about sports, but you get the idea I hope!) Clearly we need someone with some sports background but anyone could get it started. We could do just one team or a few in different locations. Players could include a variety of people such as expectant parents, adoptive parents, children, adoptees, birth parents, LDSFS staff, and friends of adoption etc.

If you are interested in helping set this up or interested in playing please us know. Contact us at Families Supporting Adoption Western WA Chapter.

The American Fork FSA banner on display during their game.

Postive Adoption Conversations (An Adoptive Family Guide)

2011-03-23T14:59:00.000-07:00

This is a great resource for anyone involved with adoption. The guide contains information on a variety of topics relating to communicating regarding adoption. Topics include:

Positive Adoption Talks at Every Age
Explaining Birth Parents and Birth Siblings
Talking with Friends and Family
Exploring Tough Topics
Answering Questions at School

We highly recommend taking a look at this well designed guide. If you would like to view it, please email families.supporting.adoption@gmail.com to request a copy.

Or, you can try this link:
https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=gmail&attid=0.1&thid=12ee3ba7d981cdfe&mt=application/pdf&url=https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui%3D2%26ik%3D5d5ff3d0df%26view%3Datt%26th%3D12ee3ba7d981cdfe%26attid%3D0.1%26disp%3Dattd%26zw&sig=AHIEtbRwXNL5vR8DoVMPyQ_5h3n0qDqxHQ&pli=1

Info on the Adoption Tax Credit

2011-03-18T16:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Adoption Advocates,

In light of recent changes to the adoption tax credit brought about by both the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and by the extension of the "Bush era" tax cuts, NCFA is proud to re-release Adoption Advocate No. 21, "Tax Benefits for Adoption: The Adoption Tax Credit." This version includes up-to-date information and is a useful tool for families and professionals in understanding the impacts of the adoption tax credit.

Click here to download Adoption Advocate No. 21.

Sincerely,

Chuck Johnson

President and CEO

OR Housebill 2904- Together We Can Make a Difference

2011-03-08T11:56:00.000-08:00

In 2 days, a group of interested people will meet to discuss a House Bill about adoption that could potentially affect us all. OR House Bill 2904 was written to supposedly ‘protect’ birth mothers and expectant mothers. As written the bill will not pass, due to opposition but, the Birthmother behind the bill has said, "We are looking forward to the larger task of developing a bill for the next session. This bill will address other issues in HB 2904 (information, legal services, remedies) as well as other important issues including father's rights and the enforceability of open adoption agreements." If a bill such as OR Housebill 2904 is passed, it will change adoption from the current law in a few really big key ways and in a lot of little ways. Here are the key points that were proposed:

~HB 2904 would have required that a mandatory time period of 8 days pass after the birth before a birthparent can relinquish the child for adoption.
The 8 days cannot be waived and the verbiage used in the bill clearly states that the child cannot be placed in the adoptive home prior to relinquishment.

(Currently, there is no mandatory waiting period and a birthparent can relinquish whenever they want to after the birth of their child, typically this is done when discharged from the hospital anywhere from 2-5 days after the birth. The birthparent is free to relinquish whenever they want to- as in 1 day, 5 days, 20 days 68 days, etc after the birth. If they need more time to decide whether or not they want to relinquish, the current law ALREADY allows them ‘all the time in the world’

~HB 2904 would have required that mandatory counseling take place 3 times before placement and 3 times after placement.
Each birthparent must attend their counseling sessions and the bill states that the birth parent must participate in the counseling session. The bill also specifically states what must be discussed at the sessions- parenting options, and that if the counseling sessions are not met and participation in the session is not adequate, then the adoption process cannot proceed. Adequate participation is not defined in the bill. The expense of the counseling sessions will be the financial burden of the adoptive couple, the agency and/or the state.

(Currently, the law requires that 3 pre and 3 post placement counseling sessions be offered to birthparents. The birthparent can choose whether or not they want to attend, at the cost of the agency and/or adoptive couple. The current law ALREADY provides all the needed opportunities for birthparents to receive guidance and information concerning all resources for all parenting options and this is ALREADY fully discussed with any birth parent considering adoption via an agency/facilitator/attorney.)

~HB 2904 would have required a 30 day mandatory revocation period after relinquishment.
This means that after signing the relinquishment papers, the birthparent has 30 days to change their mind, aka revoke their relinquishment signature. This 30 day period cannot be waived, in other words a birthparent has to wait the 30 days and cannot say that they waive their right to change their mind.

(Currently, a birthparent ALREADY has until the adoption is final to change their mind and can revoke their relinquishment signature- in OR it typically takes 6 mos to finalize an adoption. There is a form that can be signed that waives the right to change your mind, a certificate of irrevocably, and IF that is signed, then there is no revocation period. This means that typically birthparents sign the relinquishment form and then choose to sign the form that says in a fancy way “I refuse the right to change my mind later on”.)

~HB 2904 would have required that each birth parent consult with an attorney prior to relinquishment. This cannot be waived.
The bill states what will be discussed at the consultation – parenting options. If the consults don’t take place, than the adoption process cannot proceed. The consult is at the expense of the adoptive couple, the agency and/or the state.

(Currently, birthparents are ALREADY have the right to consult with an attorney as many times as they want to, at the expense of the agency or the adoptive couple, and it is common practice to make sure this offer to consult with an attorney is understood by all birthparents.)

~HB 2904 states that a fund would have been generated from the state and from adoptive family petitions to help cover the fiscal costs of these new requirements.
This will raise the cost of adoption in Oregon, not only for adoptive couple but for the Department of Human Services and the tax payers of the state of Oregon.

(Currently, there is no state adoption fund to meet birth parent expenses above what is ALREADY covered and offered to any expecting parent via DHS services, WIC services, Oregon Health Plan medical services, etc. Agencies and Adoptive couples ALREADY cover the birth parent expenses – each situational cost being individually unique.)

To read the bill in its entirety you can go HERE.

If a bill such as this passes, it will effectively affect a mother’s right to choose and could affect the adoptive parents’ ability to bond with their OR adopted child.

The passing of a bill such as this would be a huge step back for adoption. It would make adoptions in the state of OR virtually impossible (or at least extremely difficult) for Birthparents from OR AND adoptive couples FROM ANY STATE adopting an OR child.
Thankfully, the bill will not go forward as written, but with the impending meeting, anyone who has an affiliation with adoption should be paying attention.
So whether you live in OR or not, your opinion matters.

This is not over yet. If you would like to know how this impending meeting plays out and whether a new house bill will be written, check back for further updates.

Together we can make a difference for adoption.

Thank you to mrs. r for her use of the bill definition. You can find her blog post in its entirety here.

Need Education Hours???

2011-03-08T10:44:00.000-08:00

Join us for May's Mini Conference! You'll receive 3 of your 10 required hours and learn great things in the process.

Saturday, May 21st, 2011 1:00 - 4:00 pm
"Bridging the Gap Between Birthmoms and Adoptive Couples"
Working Together to Make a Positive Adoption Experience

Session #1 The Positive Side of Open
Session #2 Chatting with Birthmoms
Session #3 Understanding Your Birthmom

You can find more detailed information on the Education page of this blog.

Save the Date for the National FSA Conference in Utah

2011-03-07T15:05:00.001-08:00

2011 National FSA Conference Dates in Utah: Friday, August 12th & Saturday, August 13th, 2011.

Friday Morning Keynote Speaker: Sister Julie Beck!

Conference Theme: Rooted in Love.

Do you know about the Adoption Information Exchange? Click the link below for information on adoption agencies and resources.

2011-03-02T10:22:00.000-08:00

Washington Children Are Looking for their "Forever" Families

Have you ever thought of adopting a child but wondered if you were the “right” person? YOU ARE! Maybe you are worried that you don’t make a lot of money? IT DOESN’T TAKE A LOT... Or that you need to own your own home? YOU DON’T! Or perhaps you are a single parent wondering if adoption can work for you? IT CAN! Maybe you live in another state and have been touched by a waiting child?

The Washington State Adoption Council’s 2009
Adoption Information Exchange - The Adoption Information Exchange has been available to share information about adoption resources with people of Western Washington since 1977. This list is a valuable resource listing many adoption agencies, adoption attorneys and a myriad of adoption information. It is worth your time to check it out!

Seeking Adoption Education Instructors

2011-02-28T19:56:00.000-08:00

We are currently looking for instructors for our monthly adoption education classes. Would you be willing to teach (or recommend an awesome instructor)? Class ideas include:

Foster care- licencing process and challenges / What to expect once you're licenced

Putting together your profile

Post placement: Now what?

Parenting classes

Being an Adoption Advocate

Birth Mother Etiquet

Dealing with infertility

Trans-racial Adoption,

Adoption through Foster Care

International Adoption

Is there a class you would like to attend but don't see it listed here? I'd love to hear that too! You can email Shay at anothertolove@gmail.com.

Join Finding Families on Facebook

2011-02-16T22:09:00.000-08:00

Would you like help with Networking your adoption? Join the new Facebook page: Finding Families: Networking Your Adoption- Northwest

Find out what others have done to network and promote adoption and share what you have done as well. http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/home.php?sk=group_166859036666877

FSA Sponsered Additional Adoption Education Opprotunities

2011-02-16T16:27:00.000-08:00

The Seattle Chapter of Families Supporting Adoption is proud to announce that we will be implementing a FREE monthly Education Night for FSA members and non-members alike. Classes will be held on the third Thursday of each month at the Renton LDSFS office from 7 – 8:30pm. Each month will have a different topic and presenter and the hours will count toward your mandatory adoption education hours for placement as well as help to prepare you for adoption success. Here is a glance at the lineup of courses for the next couple of months:

Thursday, March 17^th, 2011 – “Networking: Making Your Adoption Happen,” by Shay Carl.

Thursday, April 21^st, 2011 – “Adopting a Child with Special Needs,” by Kris Allen and Kelly Morgan.

More information on each class can be found on the Education page above. We ask that you register for each class via email, providing FSA with your name and phone number, so that we can contact you if the class is canceled for any reason.

Our hope in providing these courses is to provide information on all aspects of Adoption for anyone interested. If you have any suggestions for future topics and / or presenters, we would LOVE to hear them and will do our best to meet your needs. For questions, registration and suggestions please email us at families.supporting.adoption@gmail.com.

Want to get your profile and pictures out there? Consider the website Hoping to Adopt.Org

2011-02-15T09:22:00.000-08:00

Have you heard of "Hoping to Adopt"???

Here is what they have to say about their services:

We are pleased to announce that beginning March 2011 the HopingToAdopt.org site will become a FREE Adoption Profile Listing Service. We thank all those who have supported HopingToAdopt.org through subscriptions. As of February 13, 2011 no subscription fees will be collected.

We understand the overwhelming costs both financially and emotionally that come with the adopting process. We hope that HopingToAdopt.org can be an asset to adoption community. Tell your adopting family and friends about HopingToAdopt.org. Check it out for yourself at: HopingToAdopt.org.

Want to learn more about adoption? Consider a webinar.

2011-01-21T10:36:00.000-08:00

THE MYSTERY OF RISK: Medical Risk Assessment and Intervention Techniques

for Internationally Adopted Children

A Webinar for Parents and Adoption Professionals

“Risk is not destiny.” – Dr. Ira Chasnoff

National Council For Adoption (NCFA) is pleased to announce our next 2.5 credit hour webinar, The Mystery of Risk, designed for adoption professionals and parents considering domestic, foster care, and intercountry adoption.

- Understand how to assess risk at the time of your referral of a child.

- Learn to recognize behavioral difficulties and intervention strategies.

- Gain insight into diagnoses and suggestions on appropriate pre- and post-adoption services.

- Understand the importance of birth history and signs of distress.

- Hear real life case studies.

- Hague-compliant training.

- Receive 2.5 CEU hours from the National Council For Adoption, fully accredited by The Catholic University of America, School of Social Work.

- Interactive polling with real-time results and plenty of time for questions and answers!

When: Wednesday, February 2nd, 1:30-4:00pm, Eastern Standard Time (12:30-3:00pm Central Standard Time, 11:30-2:00pm Mountain Time, 10:30-1:00pm Pacific Coast Time)

Click here and register today!

Information from the Heart Gallery - Children of the Month

2011-01-17T17:02:00.000-08:00

Heart Gallery
Child of the Month
http://www.afamilyforeverychild.org (541-343-2856)
880 Beltline Rd. Springfield, OR 97477
A Family For Every Child
December 2010

Ten Great Reasons to Adopt a Teen

1. No diapers to change, no bottles, formula or burp rags required.2. We sleep through the night.3. We will be ready to move out sooner...but we will always come home to visit.4. You don't just get a child, you get a friend.5. We will keep you up to date on the latest fashion and trends.6. No more carpools; we can drive you places.7. We can pick up after ourselves and help around the house... when we want to.8. We can learn from you and we can teach you to be more patient, understanding, kind and empathetic.9. We can teach you how to program your cell phone and IPOD, and teach you how to work your computer.10. We will be a part of your life; someone to share our life dreams, achievements and holidays with.

Hunter
Age 15
Hunter is both a talented musician and excels athletically on his school track team! He is bright and articulate and has an outgoing and friendly personality to go with his excellent manners and good intellectual capacity. Hunter plays the French horn in the orchestra and school band and would love to learn to play more instruments. His music teacher says he is definitely capable and could benefit from private lessons! Hunter enjoys most typical age appropriate activities including video games and family activities and outings. Hunter is enthusiastic about the idea of belonging to a family that he can truly count on to follow through with what they say!

Bulletin WA288

Timothy
Age 15
Timothy is a shy 15-year-old boy, who hasn't had much opportunity to just be a child. He enjoys a challenging game of chess to use his advanced logic and thinking skills, and also likes riding his bike, skateboarding and playing electronic games. He thrives on adult attention and responds well to people who like him. Timothy came into foster care when he was eight years old and was adopted by a relative when he was 10 (along with younger twin brothers). He (and his brothers) returned to foster care in 2007, and though his brothers have since been adopted (separate), Timothy is still waiting for his forever family. Due to past traumas, Timothy responds better to men than women. He needs to learn that not all women are bad and they are capable of loving him. At school, Timothy struggles with writing, but he is improving, and his teacher reports he is a pleasure to have in her class. Timothy wants two parents to adopt him. He expresses no gender preference, as long as it's not a single parent. He wants parents who will cook for him, show him affection and enjoy being in his company. He needs a committed family who will spend time with him, talking, playing games and actively engaging him in daily activities. A family who will advocate for his educational and emotional needs and help him nurture his relationship with his brothers. Timothy can get along with other children, but he requires his own space, where he can withdraw and have quiet time now and then. He needs a family who can appreciate his strengths and love him for who he is, while gently guiding him toward further improvements. Such a family will find Timothy to be a rewarding and engaging child.

Bulletin WA167

Corey
Age 15
Corey is a slender, bi-racial youth with excellent athletic abilities. He is physically healthy and seldom ill. Corey is an engaging child and quite talkative with a likable personality. He makes friends easily and is a very loving and caring boy. He likes hugs and likes attention. He requires afternoon naps especially after school.

Corey is quite talented in soccer, baseball, and basketball, and he hopes to become a "Dirt Biker" or a professional athlete when he grows up. He also likes animals and "really loves horses" and wants to be a horse trainer when he is older. Biking, swimming & playing with friends are among his favorite past times. He also enjoys skateboarding, rollerblading, and going on walks with staff. Corey is a very active child. His favorite food is macaroni and cheese.

Bulletin WA125

Angel
Age 14
Angel is an amazing African-American teen with plenty of spunk and personality. Her favorite activities include swimming, gymnastics, dancing, reading and singing. Angel has shown her considerable talent by choreographing a dance performance with her peers for a talent show at school. The audience thought her performance was spectacular and full of energy. Angel has been part of a dance troupe that performs African dances for the public. She has loved it for several reasons, one being that she got paid! Angel exudes a confidence that allows her to express her needs, especially when it comes to her future. Angel is described as tender-hearted. She will often ask what she can do to help when a peer is sad or upset. It is clear that Angel loves her family and eagerly looks forward to monthly visits with her brothers and her grandmother and great aunt. Her grandma, who lives out of state, keeps in contact with Angel through phone calls and some visits when she is in the area. Angel has been clear that she wants to live near her brothers and has become accepting of being adopted and having a permanent home. It will be important for Angel's adoptive parents to take the time to understand her history and experiences, so that they can help her move forward in healthy ways.

Bulletin WA307

Zachary
Age 13
Zachary is a bright, 13-year-old boy with a great sense of humor. He's an active young man who enjoys swimming, video games, and playing outside with his neighborhood friends. Zachary is the youngest of three (3) children; neither his oldest brother, who is 18, nor his sister, who is 17 are legally free, nor are they interested in being adopted with Zachary. The 3rd sibling has a separate permanency plan. Ongoing sibling contact is vital to Zach; therefore, an adoptive family who will honor the siblings' connections and support continued contact is highly desired.His social worker is looking for either a single parent or couple, with or without children, who will commit to adopting Zach, and seeing that all his needs are met, and he's given an opportunity to live up to his full potential. Zachary's Wish List1. Mother and Father2. Pets- cats and dogs are a must3. WA state families only. Zach is not willing to consider a family out of state as he would like to maintain contact with his siblings and biological grandparents.4. NO MILITARY FAMILIES. This point is NOT negotiable.5. Zach would like a medium size home that would insure him his own room. 6. Zach would prefer a home with siblings between the ages of 5-15 with no aggressive behaviors with either brothers or sisters. Zach likes the idea of being the oldest child for a change. 7. Zach would really like to be able to earn an allowance even as little as $.50 and would not expect more than$10.00 per month but would be willing to do chores such as vacuuming, sweeping, moping, etc.8. Zach would like to be in a family that allows video games, computers etc., as he enjoys gaming on various systems. 9. Zach likes to camp, go fishing, and gardening (landscape, vegetable gardening, etc.)10. City living, but not a large city such as Seattle and not on a farm.11. Zach would not mind a religious family but would prefer not to be forced to participate in church, youth groups, or religious education as he currently is. Bulletin WA194

How can you contact A Family For Every Child? Call, email, or visit us online or in person!
880 Beltline Rd.Springfield Oregon 97477
office - 541-343-2856
toll free - 877-343-2856
fax - 541-343-2866
Executive Director--Christy Obie-Barrettinfo@afamilyforeverychild.org

Adoption Education - Rescheduled for Friday,March 4th 9am - 7pm at LDSFS in Renton

2011-01-16T21:31:00.000-08:00

Bring a lunch and plenty of snacks. Tara and Tawnia will push through the classes and hope to finish by 7 p.m. We will have Birthmother Panel during the lunch time.

We will cover the first 5 Core classes in the beginning, so if you have had the first 5 hours, you can come a little later in the day.

Please RSVP by emailing Tawnia Singleton.

Remember this 10 hour class requirement is new policy and needs to occur prior to acceptance. If you have been accepted, you need it prior to finalization. Husband and Wife each need the 10 hours. Some of you have your hours from previous FSA conference, which will count. Training for foster care does not apply.

Family Movie Night -- Postive Adoption Film Premere January 8th on FOX

2011-01-04T14:35:00.000-08:00

Dear Adoption Advocates,

As anyone who works on behalf of children knows, sometimes life gives you more than you bargained for.

Change of Plans is the fourth film in an initiative sponsored by Wal-Mart and P&G to bring back “Family Movie Night”. Change of Plans is the story of Sally and Jason Danville, a young couple with plenty of love, talent, and career opportunities - and no responsibilities. When Sally's childhood friend dies and entrusts her with four children, Sally and Jason begin a journey that changes the focus of their lives and expands their definition of family. Three of these four children have become siblings through international adoption, and the movie offers a challenging, heart-warming insight into the joys and struggles of building a family from a group of strangers.

· Tune in: Saturday, January 8^th at 8/7 on FOX

· Spread the Word: Send an email or newsletter to your members!

· Share: Post the trailer on your website & Facebook or Twitter page Change of Plans - Trailer

· Visit : www.moms4familytv.com for a discussion guide, essay contest information and more!

· Contact Moms4FamilyTV Representative, Chandler Smith, for more information!

Chandler Smith

Moms4FamilyTV Partnership Representative

513-260-5328

chandlersmith678@gmail.com

2010-11-18T09:14:00.000-08:00

Hi FSA Members and Friends,

This post is a replica (with some minor changes for our area) of a posting from the National FSA Blog at: http://familiessupportingadoption.blogspot.com/2010/11/urgent-call-to-action.html

I am forwarding an email I received from Steve Sunday and NCFA about a need for phone calls and emails (not letters in this case) to our Representatives (not Senators) in the United States House of Representatives urging him or her to help pass some federal legislation that would help kids from Haiti and other international adoptees in the process of obtaining citizenship here in the United States.

The NCFA email is kind of long and uses the legal language of the legislation. I am attaching some links that simplify the issues.

http://www.gop.gov/bill/111/2/hr5283 (go to the BACKGROUND Section)

http://www.adoptionpolicy.org/ (This article says the bill will go to the President and we hope so, but the bill may be "tabled" before it gets there, thereby preventing it from becoming law.)

So, take a second and call or email. For example, in Utah call or email your representative who is one of the following:

Rob Bishop 202.225.0453 (website www.robbishop.house.gov)
Jason Chafetz 202.225.7751 (website www.chafetz.house.gov)
Jim Matheson 202.225.3011 (website www.matheson.house.gov)

In Washington State, go to this link to find the Rep in your area: http://www.leg.wa.gov/House/Pages/MembersByDistrict.aspx

For Alaska, find your rep here: http://house.legis.state.ak.us/

(For example, I just called Congressman Chaftez's office and let the secretary know I was in support of helping expedite international adoptions, especially those from Haiti at this time, and would urge the Congressman to pay attention to this bill.)

To find contact information for your Representative simply go to www.house.gov and enter in your zip code (plus the additional 4 numbers) in the top left corner. Your Representative's information will show up.

Here's a sample email that you may use:

I am in support of helping expedite international adoptions, especially those from Haiti at this time, and would urge the Congressman to pay attention to this bill.

International Adoption Simplification Act – S. 1376 and the Help Haiti Act of 2010 – HR 5283

Thank for all you do!

Let's spread the word! Thank you for your help! I am available to take questions sent to myutahlawyer@gmail.com.

Michelle Mitchell
FSA National, Legislation

A Special Thank You to All of Our Amazingly Generous Regional Conference Donors!!!

2010-11-06T12:16:00.000-07:00

Anna at: The Bellevue Collection, Bellevue Square, Bellevue Place and Lincoln Square.
Natalie at: Koolmono Japanese Inspired Fashion (koolmono.etsy.com), koolmono@gmail.com
Kim & Kris at: The DIY Dish (www.theDIYdish.com)
Carrie at: Carrie Stroud Photography (carriestroudphotography.com)
Wilton & Kristi at: Chandler Farm (www.chandlerfarm.com)
Jason at: Professional Cable ( www.professionalcable.com)
Carly at: Rory Unraveled (www.etsy.com/shop/Rory unraveled), roryunraveled@gmail.com
Amy at: Mod Podge Rocks (www.modpodgerocksblog.com)
Chelsea at: Pink Fig Design (www.pinkfigdesign.blogspot.com)
Kim & Kris at: You Can Make This (www.YouCanMakeThis.com)
Pat at: Pat’s Passion (www.pats passion.etsy.com), patspassion09@aol.com
Kelly at: 1313 Designs (www.etsy.com/shop/1313designs), 1313Designs@gmail.com
Carolyn at: Skinny Cami (www.skinnycami.biz)
Aaron at: Art by Aaron Trulson (www.artrulson.com)
Bekah at: Bekah Jennings Etsy Shop (www.bekahjennings.etsy.com)
Robin at: Sew Crazee’s Place (www.etsy.com/shop/sewcrazee)
Angie at: Bear River Photo Greetings (www.photogreetings.etsy.com)
Colleen at: The Busy Bean (www.thebusybean.com)
Angelene at: Scentsy Independent Consultant (sundryscents.scentsy.us )
Stampin Up at: (www.stampinup.com)
Tricia at: Trillustrations (www.zazzle.com/trennea), tricia-rennea@sbcglobal.net
Mandy at: Little Birdies Secrets (www.littlebirdiesecrets.com)
Kelly at: Garrett & Grace Boutique (www.garrettandgraceboutique.com)
Linda at: Lake Washington Dermatology (lakewashingtondermatology.com)
Marie at: MaluQuilts (www.malouquilts.com)
Laura at: Say It On The Wall (www.sayitonthewall.com)
Kristi at: BUGABOO Jewelry (www.bugaboojewelry.etsy.com), bugaboo jewelry@gmail.com
Travis at: Art by Travis Knight (www.emanioart.com)
Parent Profiles, The Rhouse Couture, Julianna Mortensen, Rebecca Harrison, Jason Moody, Jennie Proby, The Carr Family, The Trulson Family, Andrea Nelson and Family.

Kid's Fest

2010-10-14T08:25:00.001-07:00

KIDS’ FEST An Adoption Party
Saturday, November 6, 2010
1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Franklin Elementary School
1402 S. Lawrence, Tacoma

Sponsored by: Alaskan Copper & Brass Company and Alaskan Copper Works
Produced by: Northwest Adoption Exchange, 206-441-6822, www.nwae.org

What is “Kids’ Fest”?

It’s a safe, festive adoption party where legally free children waiting in state foster care for adoption and eligible-to-adopt parents (couples and single folks!) can get acquainted.

Under the auspices of the State of Washington, Division of Children and Family Services (DCFS), Kids’ Fest has been an annual event in Seattle since 1987. We, at the Northwest Adoption Exchange, have been planning and managing Kids’ Fest under the corporate sponsorship of Alaskan Copper & Brass Company and Alaskan Copper Works. NWAE celebrates over 20 years of hosting Kids’ Fest.

How did adoption parties get started?

Using a festive party setting to help facilitate adoptions of children needing permanent homes came about at the end of World War II. It was a primary means of finding adoptive families in the United States for the many foreign children orphaned during that terrible conflict.

What’s their purpose now?

There are tens of thousands of legally free kids in our country waiting in state foster care for adoption. The vast majority of the children have suffered abuse, neglect, and parental alcohol and drug abuse in their birth families.

An adoption party brings together folks wanting to adopt, social workers representing families and children, and the children themselves.

For additional information email Larissa Peay at:peayld@ldsmail.net

Comments from the National Counsel for Adoption Regarding Haiti

2010-10-13T20:15:00.001-07:00

NCFA is pleased to release Adoption Advocate No. 28, "Examining Intercountry Adoption After the Earthquake in Haiti."

With this horrible tragedy almost one year behind us, this Advocate summarizes and evaluates the United States' response to the earthquake in Haiti. Adoption Advocate No. 28 also examines reactions to the event and presents lessons learned, as well as recommendations for continued U.S. support in meeting the needs of children adopted from Haiti in the aftermath of the earthquake.

Sincerely,

Chuck Johnson
President and CEO of NCFA

An Adoption Opportunity

2010-10-07T09:01:00.001-07:00

Washington Families--

Brandon 2 years old, needs a foster to adopt placement.

Child Summary: Brandon presents as happy, healthy, and well-fed. He was born 10 weeks prematurely to his 15-year-old mother and suffered a Grade 3 brain bleed, causing him to be at increased risk for medical and developmental delays. Brandon remained in the same excellent, loving and highly skilled foster home from his discharge from the hospital until his placement in a pre-adopt home in New York a year ago. He has received not only every needed therapy, he has also received many preventive therapies and interventions, resulting in his having made tremendous gains. Due to concerns about another child in the pre-adopt home, Brandon’s ICPC approval was rescinded two weeks prior to finalization of his adoption and he has now returned to Washington.

Brandon has bonded wonderfully with his pre-adopt mother and his pre-adopt brothers. He will look at his mother and call her “mama.” He loves to receive hugs and kisses from his pre-adopt family and will eagerly give them in return. Brandon’s pre-adopt mother reports that Brandon loves to laugh and clap his hands when he is happy. He also loves to listen to music and will even dance around to the music. The ICPC worker describes how he “high 5’s” him when he visits the home.

Brandon is able to sit, stand, crawl and walk normally. He plays with toys and feeds himself. Per an evaluation in February 2010, Brandon is not legally blind but is a child with hydrocephalus that uses his head to move his eyes to get his eyes to connect with what he is supposed to see. His vision difficulties did affect his abilities in most areas; for example, he could not use utensils and ate with his hands. Brandon is now able to use a fork on his own. His pre-adopt mother is working on teaching Brandon how to use a spoon. He does a great at the dinner table and has learned appropriate manners.

His diagnoses are plagiocephaly (flat head); Prematurity; intraventricular hemorrhage grade III (the brain bleed at birth); cortical vision impairment (the visual systems of the brain do not consistently understand or interpret what the eyes see); and r/s apnea of Prematurity. A cyst on his brain was treated surgically in October 2008 to release the pressure which was causing Brandon to bang his head. A surgery in March 2010 inserted a shunt. Prior to the shunt surgery, Brandon was having difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. He would frequently bang his head against his crib due to having headaches which were due to the increase amount of pressure on his brain. He is now sleeping much better during the night and no longer bangs his head.

Since he had the shunt inserted, Brandon is able to focus his eyes better and his pupils are no longer dilated. Thankfully Brandon is very much a sighted child which is great news. A swallow test in February 2010 found that Brandon no longer has difficulty swallowing and is able to eat and drink normally. He was taken off a thickening agent and has slimmed down nicely!

Brandon’s parents will need to accept and love him unconditionally no matter what levels of development he is eventually able to achieve. His parents will need to be prepared to continue ongoing monitoring of his brain cyst and to maintain therapeutic interventions including speech therapy and occupational therapy. His family will need to be located close to pediatric specialists. He does well with other children and they enjoy him!

If you would like to submit your study, please email it to me, along with a little info on your family and your location.

Thank-you,
Christy

Christy Obie-Barrett
A Family For Every Child
Heart Gallery
Executive Director
541-954-9626 cell
541-343-2856 Office
877-343-2856
541-343-2866 fax
880 Beltline Road
Springfield, OR 97477
www.afamilyforeverychild.org

Also, when I am unavailable you may call my assistant Bethany @ 541-343-2856, she will be able to help as well. info@afamilyforeverychild.org

North West Regional Conference

2010-10-05T09:32:00.000-07:00

This is a perfect opportunity, not only to meet other families in the adoption world, but also to get your education hours required for placement. If you come both days you will recieve all your hours! More information, including how to register can be viewed on the Regional Conference Tab. If you are interested in helping out on the Conference Committe please contact Julianna at julianna_mortensen@yahoo.com

FSA Conference Registration Available Now!!

2010-09-29T18:34:00.000-07:00

Ready to register for the FSA Regional Conference? Register before October 15th for special early bird pricing. Here is the link: https://www.123signup.com/event?id=mhrdx

A National Counsel for Adoption Webinar for Parents and Adoption Professionals

2010-09-29T18:19:00.000-07:00

RISK AND PROMISE: The Brain, Biology, and the Adopted Child
A Webinar for Parents and Adoption Professionals

Due to high popularity, NCFA is pleased to once again offer RISK AND PROMISE: The Brain, Biology, and the Adopted Child, presented by Dr. Ira Chasnoff, MD. This 2-hour, Hague-compliant webinar is based on the published work by Dr. Chasnoff, RISK AND PROMISE, a handbook for parents and adoption professionals on adopting a child from another country. NCFA is offering two hours of CEU accredited by The Catholic University of America, School of Social Work, upon completion of this valuable webinar.

NCFA encourages adoption professionals and parents considering adoption to take advantage of this second opportunity learn about the health and emotional risks for internationally adopted children as well as how to minimize unexpected challenges related to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Reactive Attachment Disorder. This additional offering also provides a unique opportunity for adoption agencies to invite prospective adoptive parents considering intercountry adoption as well as adoption professionals who missed the first RISK AND PROMISE webinar to register and learn about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), and growth charting for observing the prospective adopted child.

This RISK AND PROMISE webinar is designed to enlighten, not frighten, participants about the risks associated with intercountry adoption. Adoption professionals are encouraged to register prospective adoptive parents interested in intercountry adoption and those currently active in the intercountry adoption process.

With many incorrect assumptions on risks associated with intercountry adoption, NCFA is pleased to showcase one of the leading published medical experts on this issue. As part of this presentation, all participants will receive a PDF entitled, “Guidelines for Evaluating Growth,” as adapted by Dr. Chasnoff.

When: Friday, October 15th, 1:30-3:30pm, Eastern Standard Time (12:30-2:30pm Central Standard Time, 11:30-1:30pm Mountain Time, 10:30-12:30pm Pacific Coast Time)

Fee: $45.00 for non-NCFA Members, $38.00 for NCFA Members with affiliation code reference number

Click here and register today!

About the Lead Presenter
Dr. Ira Chasnoff, MD is the President of Children's Research Triangle, a not-for-profit organization that works with high-risk children and their families. He is one of the nation's leading researchers in the field of child development and the effects of alcohol and drug use on the newborn infant and child. He is the author of eight critically acclaimed books that explore how biological and environmental factors impact the development of substance-exposed children. In 2002, Dr. Chasnoff's organization was selected by the Center for Disease Control as one of the five national centers for research into innovative treatment for children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.

“I believe that given all the media attention to what can go wrong in an intercountry adoption, we may be creating more fear and apprehension than is necessary. There are steps and measures that every parent and adoption professional can take to help mitigate some health related risks. However, just as there are hidden risks for biological birth parents, there are associated risks with children who are adopted that cannot be completely or accurately predicted. My lifelong work has been to create a reasonable framework for parents to work within.” - Dr. Chasnoff

Moderated by Chuck Johnson, President and CEO, National Council For Adoption

When: Friday, October 15th, 1:30-3:30pm, Eastern Standard Time (12:30-2:30pm Central Standard Time, 11:30-1:30pm Mountain Time, 10:30-12:30pm Pacific Coast Time)

Fee: $45.00 for non NCFA Members, $38.00 for NCFA Members with affiliation code reference number

Registration is now open!

For more information, please e-mail webinars@adoptioncouncil.org.

Need a Hotel for the Conference?

2010-09-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

Tawny and Ryan have 3 hotels lined up, and each of them have tentatively set aside 10 rooms for us (so there are 30 available rooms total). Whatever rooms aren't reserved by the deadline specified will be made available to the public at the regular price. Guests making reservations should call the hotel of their choice and reference the "Families Supporting Adoption Conference." (Our special rates are not available for reservations made online.)

Each of the hotels are quite close to the conference location. (For those flying in, Best Western has a complimentary shuttle that runs to and from the airport and also within a 5-mile radius of the hotel. Other amenities for each may be found via the websites.)

Extended Stay America Hotel Seattle--Federal Way
1400 South 320th Street
Federal Way, WA 98003
(253) 946-0553
extendedstayamerica.com
$61.74 per night, deadline to make a reservation is Friday, October 22nd.

Best Western Evergreen Inn & Suites
32124 25th Avenue South
Federal Way, WA 98003-6014
(253) 529-4000
bestwesternwashington.com
$79.00 per night, deadline to make a reservation is Friday, October 22nd.

Econo Lodge Federal Way
1505 South 328th Street
Federal Way, WA 98003
(253) 838-7700
econolodge.com
$49.99 per night, deadline to make a reservation is Friday, October 29th.

Regional Conference Class Options

2010-09-27T09:51:00.000-07:00

Wondering what type of classes will be offered at the Regional Conference on November 5th and 6th? We thought so! Below is a list of the classes so that you can start thinking about which ones will benefit you the most. For additional information about the conference, be sure to visit the "Regional Conference" tab which is located on the top left of this blog. (Just FYI, sessions 1-4 will be on Friday the 5th and sessions 5-8 will be held on Saturday the 6th). See you there!

Breakout Session 1
• Playing Through the Struggles
• Creating an Adoption Profile
• Birthmother Grief (for birthmothers)
• Special Needs Adoption

Breakout Session 2
• Networking: Making Your Adoption Happen
• Foster Care
• Bonding With Your Child Through Physical Interaction
• Discussing Adoption With Your Children (for birthmothers)

Session 3 is a birthparent panel (and because everyone wants to attend, there will be no breakout options).

Breakout Session 4
• Dealing With Infertility
• Attachment and Bonding
• Birthmother Support Group and Prep for Mix and Mingle

Breakout Session 5
• Communication in Relationships
• Birthmother Support Group
• Discussing Adoption With Your Children (for Adoptive Families)
• Speed Class Session - Birthmother gifts / ICPC / Birthmother scams / High School Power Point / What to bring?

Breakout Session 6
• Discipline and Effective parenting
• Art Therapy for Grief and Loss
• Being an Adoption Advocate
• Marking the Box - Education by pediatricians on health defects you might face

Breakout Session 7
• Bringing Baby Home - Part 1 of 2
• Optimal Birth Parenting (for Birthmothers)
• Learning to Love Your Birthmother - Adoptive Couple Panel
• Marking the Box - Education by pediatricians on health defects you might face

Breakout Session 8
• Bringing Baby Home - Part 2 of 2
• Trans-racial Adoption
• Being a Birthmother Peer Counselor (for Birthmothers)
• Legal Aspects of Adoption

Regional Conference

2010-09-21T13:22:00.000-07:00

As we get more details regarding the Regional Conference in Federal Way on November 5th and 6th, they will be posted on the Regional Conference Page. This page can be accessed by clicking on the link on the top left entitled "Regional Conference".

Making School Assigments More Adoption Friendly Article

2010-09-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

The National Counsel for Adoption has posted a great article titled, "Back to School, A Guide to Making Schools and School Assignments More Adoption-Friendly" by Christine Mitchell. It gives some great suggestions for working with schools and teachers on making family related assignments more accommodating for various family types. It also includes alternatives to typical family tree assignments such as "The Rooted Family Tree", "The Family Wheel Diagram", and "The Family Houses Diagram". It is a quick easy to read article, that makes the reader think about how to support adopted children with school assignments that they may find challenging. It can be viewed at the following link: https://www.adoptioncouncil.org/images/stories/NCFA_ADOPTION_ADVOCATE_NO27.pdf

Labor Day Camp Out

2010-09-08T14:37:00.000-07:00

If you weren't able to make it to our Labor Day Camp Out at Zions, you really missed out on a fun weekend! The food was delish and the weather was PERFECT. Fun was had by all, and we really missed you! Hope you can make it next time! Here is a recap of some of the fun we had! Thanks to everyone who came and shared their holiday with us!

Chef, Cassie Willis, making the BEST blueberry pancakes EVER to go with the scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon and strawberries... YUMMMMM!

The Cornwall family joined us even though their birth mom was in labor, good luck with the new baby!

The Gerry Family had a rough night fighting a leaking air mattress, but they sure had fun in the water!

After moving their campsite away from the latrine, the Peay Family was able to enjoy their weekend. So much so that they chose to stay an extra night!

The Willis Family helped keep the fire going all weekend long with some serious "BONZ-EYE" wood chopping skills!

Who says you can't craft while camping? Julianna and Cassie sure gave it their best effort!

Dylan and Kingston discovered that the best part of FSA is meeting new friends!

Dylan and Camden sure made a splash as they practiced their cherry bombs off the deck.

The Cox Family held nothing back in experiencing all that Zions camp had to offer.

The Willis Family swinging the day away. It's a sabbath activity if it is done as a family, right?

The Mortensen Family playing around in the tree house.

National Council for Adoption

2010-08-25T08:46:00.000-07:00

I was just informed about a wonderful website for adoption advocates called the National Council for Adoption.

"Founded in 1980, the National Council For Adoption (NCFA) is an adoption advocacy nonprofit that promotes a culture of adoption through education, research, and legislative action.

Our areas of focus are infant adoption, adoption out of foster care, and intercountry adoption. Passionately committed to the belief that every child deserves a nurturing, permanent family, we serve children, birthparents, adoptive families, adoption agencies, U.S. and foreign governments, policymakers, media, and the general public as the authoritative voice for adoption."

I encourage you to take a minute and look it over, it has some valuable information, statistics and connections to the adoption world. Hope you enjoy! http://www.adoptioncouncil.org/

Raindrops of the Heart - By Cassie A. Grzesik

2010-08-11T23:33:00.000-07:00

Raindrops of the Heart

Before I knew how to write this poem I grew inside my mom
I knew she loved me every moment - yet, something was very wrong
I sensed her unspoken sadness when her heart would beat at night
I didn’t know just what it was, but I knew that it wasn’t right

I grew and grew and grew inside as my mother cared for me
I heard her talk of “making a choice, picking a family”
One day I listened very closely to what was being said
I heard a word like “birth-mom,” and that my mom and dad weren’t wed

I decided to pay attention, so much going on out there
Different people were talking, families kneeling down in prayer
Mom assured me that she loved me but the question of what was right
Seemed to consume her every thought, she wrestled with it day and night

I knew my mother wasn’t sleeping but I had to get some rest
I awoke to the sound of raindrops as mother held me to her breast
And when I looked around me, I saw the light in my mother’s eyes
Her voice whispered safety and comfort, her touch so gentle and kind

She cuddled me so softly as I took in my new way of life
I felt the love only mother could give, love paid at a very high price
Lots of people kissed me (oh, yes, I must have been quite a site)
Aunts and uncles and grandmas, too…all cuddled and held me tight

I then remembered the soft sounds of the raindrops of the heart
I knew a change was coming…that my mother and I would part
The night was full of stories and the dreams that she wished for me
She told me love is forever, another mommy’d meet my needs

She held me close and I wondered if some day I could love like her
Show her how grateful I really am for the pains she chose to endure
Then the room filled with giant raindrops and hearts were pounding so fast
My mother held me so tightly…into another’s arms I was passed…

Now I’m in a new home with a brother who kisses my cheeks
He holds my hand and loves me, his kisses so gentle and sweet
My mommy now, she tells me, of how our family came to be
About mommy, daddy, and brother and my mother who placed me

Yes, the raindrops of the heart make the most beautiful rainbows, too
I have the two loveliest mommies ever, a circle of love that’s true
And yes I hear another heartbeat that is beating close to mine
Not the mother I was born to but a mother with the same shine
She smells a little different; she too, cuddles me to her breast
I feel safe in these new arms and so I close my eyes to rest

I dream soundly of my first days and the songs that my mother sang
The comfort in her loving arms, a love that will never change
I’m grateful for the choice she made and I promise to live my life
The very best that I know how…as I honor her sacrifice

By Cassie A. Grzesik
Inspired By: Robin Grzesik and Kenzie Nicole

Welcome Back!

2010-08-11T10:24:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been a week since I got back from the National Conference in Utah, and let me just tell you that it was AMAZING! They had so much great information there. Tawnia, Tara, Pam, Megan and I had a wonderful time gathering ideas for our Regional Conference this fall! It is going to knock your socks off people!!! (BTW-It will be held on November 5th and 6th, 2010 right here in Federal Way, WA -- save the date!)

So one of the reasons this post has taken me so long to write is because I am having a hard time narrowing down EVERYTHING I got from national conference into something that will fit into one post! So, I have decided to do a couple of posts. One for each of the topics that I wanted to bring back and share with my WONDERFUL Western Washington FSA Chapter! I am only one person and could only attend a small handful of the PLETHORA of classes and panels that were offered, but what I learned is something I would like to share with all of you. Hopefully you will take a minute to read over the main ideas that I took from the classes and ponder them yourselves. Ask yourself how it might relate to you! But before I get to all that I have big news!

I would like to CONGRATULATE Tawnia Singleton - our Adoption Manager, and Tara Larson - our part-time adoption worker. They were recognized at the Chair's breakfast for all their hard work putting together the high school presentation and the education courses they offer monthly at the office. For their amazing efforts on behalf of adoption they received an Outstanding Service Award! Congratulations Tawnia and Tara and thank you for all you do!

Todd and Rebecca, Tawnia and Tara, Carrie and Derek

Our Regional Chairs, Rebecca and Todd Harrison, and the Oregon Chapter Chairs, Derek and Carrie C., also received recognition for their hard work and time they put into pulling off last years Regional Conference in Portland. They too received an Outstanding Service Award for all they do for adoption. Congratulations Rebecca, Todd, Derek and Carrie and thank you!

For more information on everything you misses at National Conference please visit the National blog at:
http://www.familiessupportingadoption.blogspot.com/ Mark your calendars for next years National Conference: July 29th and 30th, 2011 at the Davis Center in Layton Utah. I promise you that you will NOT regret going!

Coping with Infertility - National Conference Course

2010-08-11T10:20:00.000-07:00

In order to survive we have to change - Oprah

Change what we Think:
• Remember that we are Children of God and that He loves us
• We are not defined by our infertility
• We can do great things - Positive Affirmations

Change what we Say:
• Say positive things to those around you
• Don't let your Infertility be the focus of your conversation
• Advocate

Change what we Do:
• Have a passion other than your infertility
• Loose yourself in the service of others
• Allow yourself a day to grieve
• Sanctify yourself

Why FSA - National Conference course

2010-08-11T10:15:00.000-07:00

No matter where you fit into adoption... FSA needs YOU! We're all in this together.

What is FSA?
• Stands for Families Supporting Adoption
• FSA is the largest adoption support organization in the country
• FSA works closely with LDS Family Services to offer continuing education and social opportunities as a means of building and strengthening families and to offer outreach in the community and promote positive adoption education and legislation
• FSA includes Adoptive Couples, Birthparents and Birth families, Adoptees, Adoption Professionals and others who have in some way been touched by adoption

What does membership in Families Supporting Adoption REALLY mean?
• Network of friends with a similar bond - Adoption.
• You get out what you put in, and then some.

Who is FSA for?
• Adoptive Couples and families
• Birth parents / families
• Children
• Anyone who has been touched by adoption

What does FSA have to offer?
• Activities
• Mentors for adoptive couples
• Service opportunities in the local chapter
• Support
   -Online group discussions
   -Outreach presentations at schools and in the community
• FSA blogs and websites
• Opportunities to share your adoption story

When should you get involved with FSA?
• Now! Everyone can help support adoption, even for just a few minutes each month!
• Upcoming activities / events
   -familiessupportingadoption.blogspot.com
   -familiessupportingadoption.org

Why should you get involved with FSA?
• Greater understanding of adoption
• Relationships for couples and children
• Spirit of Adoption
• Instant network of experienced couples in a similar situation
• Giving Back
• Getting involved helps you get more out of your adoption experience

Opportunities with FSA?
• Education
• Mentoring
• Activities
• Calling Tree
• Historian
• Outreach
• Legislative
• Web Moderator
• Membership / Records
• Media
• FIND SOMETHING THAT INTERESTS YOU!!!

How can you get involved?
• Email your chapter Chair
   -families.supporting.adoption@gmail.com
• Contact your case worker
   -Tawnia Singleton singletonta@ldsfamilyservices.org

Being an Adoption Advocate - National Conference course

2010-08-11T10:10:00.000-07:00

You can advocate here or there, you can advocate anywhere!

What does it mean to be an adoption advocate?
• dispelling myths and clarifying misconceptions
• opening your mouth
• helping people use correct terminology
• sharing your passion for and testimony of adoption
• educating
• increasing awareness of the adoption option

Even 'busy' people can advocate for adoption
• everyone is busy, but everyone has time to be an adoption advocate
• the key is not to prioritize what's on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities. - Stephen Covey
• "have i done any good in the world today?"

Anyone can advocate - no matter how much time you have.
• Anything you do - no matter how big or small - is better than nothing
• these are things you can do with or without FSA
• these are things you can do in your won community and neighborhood
• these are things you can do by yourself or with a group of your friends

What are some things you can do to be an adoption advocate?
• small amount of time
   -share your love and testimony of and spiritual experience with adoption
   -get involved in FSA - there are varying levels of involvement
   -keep adoption info in your wallet/purse to distribute when prompted
   -talk about adoption/pass out materials to family and friends, other adoptive couples or advocates, your hairdresser or barber.
   -if you already have a blog add a list of couples who are hoping to adopt, link to their profiles and link to the national FSA blog.
   -put on adoption spin on the way you answer your questions in church as well as in the lessons and talks you prepare.
   -wear adoption paraphernalia and give as gifts
• medium amount of time
   -Talk about adoption / pass out materials to neighbors, work colleagues, bishops, RS presidents, YSA reps and teenagers you know.
   -if you already have a blog research adoption articles, link to them with your reaction or summary or interview adoption professionals, members of the triad.
   -Add to adoption discussions on social networking sites and blogs: http://www.adoptionblogs.com/, http://www.adoptionvoices.com/, myspace.com, facebook.com, youtube.com
   -car ad - drive around an adoption message or url on your back window.
   -get involved in FSA's school and church outreach programs
• large amount of time
   -talk about adoption/ pass out materials to doctors and nurses at hospitals, attorneys, dentists, planned parenthood, abortion clinics, pregnancy resource centers, rape recovery centers, JHS / HS principals, health teachers and counselors, women's counseling centers at colleges, podcasters, newspapers, women's health clinics, women's shelters, women's rehab centers, prisons, hospital staff and social workers, dept. of human services offices, WIC clinics, student clinics at colleges and universities
   -start a personal blog or adoption blog to talk about adoption/infertility and adoption issues/research
   -help with or volunteer to start a blog for your FSA chapter
   -make a video about adoption and post it online
   -ask to be a guest writer/blogger/interview on popular blogs, podcasts and print media
   -ask popular bloggers, podcasters, journalists, newspapers in your area to advocate for adoption on their site with a featured article.
   -adoption yard sale to benefit friends and family who may be adopting. Provide info on adoption and ask the press to cover it.
   -walk in your city's parade carrying FSA banner and wearing Orange: Orange you glad you chose adoption?
   -mass empty stroller walk
   -birth mothers day walk
   -art gallery display where local art gallery exhibit couples seeking to adopt by displaying artistic expressions of adoption, infertility, family...
   -library display in November for national adoption awareness month. Use school libraries and have adoption stats posted.
   -5K or other race with adoption T-shirts
-bake sale and sell recipe books

Brainstorm more ideas
• what are things you've done that have worked well
• where do you need help
• what is keeping you from being an adoption advocate

Can't Attend the National Conference?

2010-07-27T12:43:00.000-07:00

Hopefully you are considering taking the drive (or short flight) to Utah for the National FSA Conference July 30th -31st. But, just in case you can't make it there, don't miss the keynote speaker.

Former BYU Cougar, 2001 Heisman Trophy Candidate, current BYU Coach ...and Adoptive Father, BRANDON DOMAN will be this year's keynote speaker. You won't want to miss it!

Even if you are not able to attend the conference, we still want to include you! Brandon Doman's Saturday morning keynote address will be live streamed on the Internet from 9:30 to 10:40 a.m MST.

The Internet video will be about a minute or two behind the live event from the Davis Conference Center.

The link for the stream is: http://stream.lds.org/2222-123456

Or you can go to this link for the original post on the National FSA Blog:
http://familiessupportingadoption.blogspot.com/2010/07/national-conference-news-keynote.html

Labor Day Camping Details

2010-06-22T21:01:00.000-07:00

Are you free Labor Day weekend? Do you love to camp? If you answered yes to these questions PLEASE come join us at the church owned ZIONS campground in Belfair for a SUPER fun weekend! Here are the Details...

When: Friday September 3rd through Monday September 6th
Who is invited: All adoptive applicants and families. Birth parents are having their own retreat at ZIONS the following weekend.
Cost: It is only $5 a person per night and kids under 3 are free. This includes a campsite for your family and dinner for the FSA Dinner and presentation friday night. The rest of the weekend you will be incharge of your own food. There is running water (flushing toilets, wash sinks and showers) however showers cost 50 cents each and can be bought at check in.
What is there to do: Everything at ZIONS is free, and here is a list of fun things they have to do...
-canoeing, paddle boats and row boats
-swimming in the lake
-large field for sports
-HUGE tree house, and play equiptment including a ROPE swing and obsticle course
-fishing (no licence required, just bring your own tackle box)
-archery and horse shoes
-nature walks
RSVP deadline: I have reserved 8 tent sites and need to let them know by August 1st if we are using them all or not with out being penalized. So if you want to come you MUST contact me (julianna_mortensen@yahoo.com) AND pay me (put a check in the mail made to Julianna Mortensen) before August 1st. If I do not have your money I won't save your spot.
Additional information:
-When you email me I will put a packet of rules and directions and other information in the mail to you and remind you about the payment. I will call and check with you by July 25th if I haven't heard back from you. In this packet there are some forms I need you to sign and bring with you to turn in at check in.
-Friday night we will be having an FSA sponsered Dinner, camp fire and education presentation that will count towards your education credit. The rest of the weekend, no matter how long you want to stay, will be yours to do as you please.
-The camp sites are all located together so while they are private for your family our FSA group will be together for easy socializing.
-There is a walmart no more then 30 minutes away incase you forget something or run out of ice.
-Befair does have a branch that meets sunday morning, if you are staying over sunday and would like more information on that just ask when you check in. All lake activities are closed for the Sabath as well as the office.
-You get one arm load of firewood a day for free. Each additional arm load does cost a small amount, but you are welcome to bring your own wood as well.
-If you have any further questions just ask!

FSA National Conference Information

2010-06-21T00:31:00.000-07:00

The Conference will be held at the Davis Conference Center in Layton Utah on Friday July 30, 2010 from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM and on Saturday, July 31, 2010 from 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM.
The cost of the conference is $35 per person.
Please contact the Hilton Garden Inn for lodging information. Use the Group/Convention Code located in the "Lodging" tab of the registration link.
This year we will have a myriad of classes for anyone interested in adoption.
Birth Father, Adoption Triad, Adult Adoptee, Adoptive Couple, Transracial Adoption, Ask a Birth Parent and Birth Parent panels will he held throughout the conference and have been a favorite of attendees for years.
Are you new to adoption? No problem! We will have classes on Drug/Alcohol Impacts in Children, Infertility-Spiritual/Gospel Insights, Understanding Birth Parents, Adoption Law, What Birth Parents Wished Adoptive Couples Knew, and FSA-Who, What, Where, When and How.
Are you looking for more resources and information on transracial adoption? We've got you covered there too. Classes will be held on Latent Racism & Racism & Racial Socialization and an overview of transracial adoption. We will also have the opportunity to view and discuss the film Living on the Fault Line.
We will also have classes on parenting available to attendees. Classes are scheduled to include topics such as Communicating/Talking About Adoption With Older Children, Openness, Communication Between Adoptive & Birth Families, The Power of Positive Parenting, Ages and Stages and Unequal Adoption Relationships.
We will also have information and classes available on Foster Care, Special Needs Adoption, Children Available for Adoption, Creating Profiles, Intercountry Adoption, Gifts for Birth Parents and Adoption Advocacy.
The FSA National Conference is not just for Adoptive Couples, Adoptive Parents and Hopeful Adoptive Couples. There is an entire track of classes devoted to Birth Parents and Birth Families.
For more information about the servce project that will be happening, the classes offered for Birth Families and to REGISTER visit the National FSA blog: http://www.familiessupportingadoption.blogspot.com/

Several of our members are attending so please post if YOU are one of them!!! We hope to see you there!

Summer Picnic

2010-06-20T21:02:00.000-07:00

Please join us at Liberty Park (1101 BRONSON WAY N, Renton WA),

Saturday July 10th from 12:30 - 4:00pm for our
ANNUAL FSA SUMMER PICNIC

Bring your family, chairs and a picnic lunch and lets socialize and meet the new

FSA board as well as the new Adoption Team at our LDSFS Renton Office.

We will have all sorts of fun games set up, such as badminton, bocci ball, kick ball, and Frisbee. There is a great play structure for the kids to play so we are all sure to have a great time!

From I-405 North:

Take Exit 2 (Renton/Rainier Ave.) Head North on Rainier Avenue to South 3rd and take a right. Continue on 3rd and take a left on Mill Avenue South. Continue on Mill and veer to the right, which is Bronson Way. City of Renton Library is on your right.
Liberty Park is directly after the library.

From I-405 South:

Take Exit 4 (Renton/Enumclaw). Stay in the lane marked Bronson Way/City Center. The road will veer to the right, which is Bronson Way.
Liberty Park is located on the left.

Park Amenities:

•Lighted basketball courts and tennis practice wall

•Three lighted tennis courts

•Picnic areas and shelter

•Play equipment

•Skatepark

•Tables and benches

•Restroom facilities

•Cedar River Trail access

Regional Conference Committee

2010-06-18T18:44:00.000-07:00

Every year FSA puts on a regional conference. This fall it is our chapter's turn to host it. We are looking for volunteers to be on the conference committee and help bring this event to pass. The committee will be lead by a few of our chapter's board members and will be meeting via phone conference each Sunday night at 8:30pm. Our first meeting, however, will be held in person at the Renton LDSFS office on Thursday July 1st at 7:00pm. If you are interested in helping out please join us! We will be outlining the conference and get the ball rolling, there is a lot to do and we need all the help we can get!!! For more information please contact Julianna at 360-464-5887.

What's Your vote?

2010-06-10T22:54:00.000-07:00

We are having a picnic in the park on July 10th from 12:30 - 4pm. There will be all sorts of games, mingling and fun to be had, so pack your family a picnic and come meet your new board members!!!

There is only one small problem... what park should we meet at? What is your vote? The only guidelines is that it needs to be in the Renton/Bellevue area so that it is centrally located for all of our members. Here are a few suggestions:

Teasdale

Glenco

Liberty

Jones

Heritage

Leave your suggestion in the comments section and I will pick one next week!

Grief Groups by Tara

2010-05-24T14:51:00.000-07:00

The following has been posted on the support page, but I wanted to be sure everyone saw it, so here it is.

Unresolved grief can affect the relationship between adoptive parents and birth mothers, but more importantly can also affect the relationship between adoptive parents and their child. For those of you who might still be working through feelings of grief surrounding infertility, miscarriage, or the loss of a child we want to provide you with the resources you need. As a result we would like to start a monthly grief support group. The group would meet on the first Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. The decision to hold the group will be based on need. So if you are interested in such a group please RSVP to the Renton office.

Grief group has been added to our monthly calendar and is a WONDERFUL resource that is being offered to you at no charge. If you are uncomfortable with a group like setting feel free to make mention and arrange a private session.

Education Opportunity - Guest Speaker

2010-05-24T10:17:00.000-07:00

Dear adoption friends,

I'm so pleased to be able to invite you to an adoption event Saturday June 5 from 3:00 - 4:30. There will be a guest speaker who will be showing a brief presentation: "Across the Adoption Spectrum / Insights from Adoptees and their Families" in Renton. Here's some information:

Across the Adoption Spectrum / Insights from Adoptees and their Families

Presenter: Teresa Kelleher (adoptive mom, teacher, author of several adoption-specific language sets and a new book, "Snowflakes, a Flurry of Adoption Stories by, for and about Children and Teens" -- more info below)

Who is invited?
All who have connections to and interest in foster care and/or adoption. Appropriate for pre- and post-adoption parents and teens, as well as those who wish to support them in the adoption journey (prospective foster/adoptive parents, adopted teens and young adults and their parents, agencies, counselors, and teachers, etc.).

What? adoption presentation (basic information about adoption, a few statistics about orphanage "graduates" and those who have "aged out" of foster care, question & answer about adoption topics (any/all topics of interest to the group can be addressed), insights from young adoptees on their experiences before, during, and after adoption. The presenter will also make signed copies of her books available for purchase.

When? Saturday June 5, 2010 from 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

Where? The Renton Office: 220 South Third Place Renton WA

I hope you'll accept this invitation. Please invite your families, staff, and any/all who are friends of foster care and adoption. A meaningful adoption education experience is guaranteed. This will count as 1 1/2 hours towards your required 10 hours of adoption education!

Snowflakes, a Flurry of Adoption Stories by, for and about children and teens. 200+ stories of adoption, many submitted by kids ages 8 - 19. Perfect for families before, during and after adoption to learn what to expect. Viewpoints from the perspective of children and teens as well as their families. Powerful information: the happy, the sad, the challenging, and the delightful!Unique. Honest. Sensitive. Beautiful. A precious keepsake for adoptees and their families.

Snowflakes, a Flurry of Adoption Stories was reviewed in the June 2010 issue of Adoptive Families magazine:

“Adopted children, ...and family members share their points of view on adoption, family, and relationships in this satisfying collection of essays. The book is divided into four sections: stories by young adoptees; teens’ stories; stories for new and prospective parents; and stories from families who successfully adopted older children and children with special needs. Children of all ages, adopted domestically and from abroad, as infants and as older kids, share a range of experiences, from meeting new siblings to missing birth family.

The adoptees’ points of view—the soul of Snowflakes—offer glimpses of lives before, during, and after adoption. The stories they tell, and the advice they offer, resonate...[adoption] themes are most powerful when they are expressed by children.”
~ Judith Frist, Adoptive Families magazine (June 2010)

Available on Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, and on my web site: http://Worknotes.com/AZ/AdoptingFromRussia/Kelleher
Questions? tk.pacifica@gmail.com

Calendar posted

2010-05-22T02:51:00.000-07:00

I have posted a calendar of events on the Upcoming Events and Calendar page so check it out. Mark your calendars for the events that your family needs or wants to attend and watch for more details to be posted as they get closer. We, as an FSA, are offering monthly opportunities for Adoption Education and both social and emotional support. We hope that you will take advantage of these opportunities as often as you are able! We promise that the more you involve yourself with FSA the easier the journey of adoption will be. We look forward to seeing you at these events!

Wonderful Article

2010-05-22T01:25:00.000-07:00

A Birth mother member of our FSA passed this article on to me and I wanted to pass it on to all of you. I have added it to the sidebar for easy future access. I hope you enjoy!

Raina Kelley
Birth Moms Deserve Our Respect
Why all the conversations about adoption leave out a key player.
May 20, 2010

When I gave birth to my son two years ago, I was stunned by the depth of my feelings—not the love, I expected that. It was the sense that the life of this baby was now more important than my own. I would fight a mountain lion or step in front of a truck to protect him. I would even, if I had to, send him to my parents to live, if my husband and I could no longer provide the best care for him. That doesn't make me special—it just means I'm a mother, same as hundreds of millions of other women. No matter whether it's staying home, going to work, raising their kids alone or choosing to leave their children in order to provide for them, there is nothing most of us would not do to ensure our childrens' safety. And, for some Moms, giving their children the best chance at a good life means making the most excruciating sacrifice of all: placing them up for adoption.

We hear a lot about adoption, but usually only when things go wrong or a celebrity is involved. We talk plenty about the kids themselves and the selfless families taking them in—whether they're fictional scenarios like the adoption storyline on Glee, or all-too-real news footage from Haiti, Ethiopia, or China. But our culture still seems to show so little respect and support for the women who choose adoption in the face of an unexpected pregnancy. Rarely do we focus, in a positive way, on the birth mothers, aside from picking the most relevant stereotyped assumptions: "Pregnant teen, crack addict, prostitute, trash, etc."

For the better part of the 20th century, adoption was seen as exploitative and cruel to birth mothers. Since single motherhood and abortion were not readily accepted options, women and girls were often forced by their families into hasty marriages or hustled into homes where their babies were taken without their informed consent. But now adoption has come out of hiding—indeed, both domestic and international adoptions have become increasingly common. One would think that women or teenage girls would be able to explore this option free of the guilt and shame. But as Amy Benfer wrote last month at Salon.com when discussing the reaction to notable on-screen pregnancies: "By the end of 2008, you could be forgiven for believing there was absolutely no way to portray a young unmarried woman who happened to be pregnant in a responsible manner: Juno was too smart, funny and likable; Katherine Heigl in 'Knocked Up' was too pretty and too happy; the Gloucester girls were too poor and too dumb; Jamie Lynn Spears was too rich and too dumb; Bristol Palin was too privileged and too Republican. When MTV came out with '16 and Pregnant' in the summer of 2009, it was more of the same: the girls were too trashy or too popular; bad mothers for dropping out of school, or unrealistic role models for other, less privileged girls, should they continue with school."

For Elizabeth Bartholet, professor of law and faculty director of the Child Advocacy Program at the Harvard Law School, society's distrust of birth mothers reveals our enduring bias for biological families. "It is very deeply ingrained in our society that all kids belong where they came from, it's unnatural to give them up. So we stigmatize surrendering the child ... but most young unmarried women who give birth are not in a good position to raise their child. What if we allowed people to think it's also natural to give their children to somebody else to raise?" Don't believe that we're so biased against birth moms? Do a little thought experiment with me—imagine it's the 2008 presidential race all over again. What do you think the response would have been if Bristol Palin had announced she was having her baby but placing it for adoption? Something tells me she wouldn't have been hailed as a real-life Juno but as a selfish promiscuous tart who doesn't care about her baby.

To me, it also indicates a strain of our culture that is not yet ready to accept that a mother's love might dictate placing her child with somebody else to raise and instead dismisses her as unnatural. As Adam Pertman, executive director of the Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute explained to me, "Our society has lifted much of the stigma of single motherhood, but still finds it difficult to support a woman who is, as they see it, abandoning her child. These women are told: 'How can you possibly give up your child? What kind of person could do that?' So while adoption is listed as viable option, it's a choice that's rarely made." Indeed, the number of newborn babies available for adoption has remained flat for almost two decades while the number of unmarried women having children has soared.

What if we stopped pretending we lived in a world where the traditional nuclear family is the norm and accepted birth mothers into the fold of family life? We've certainly managed to do that in the world of reproductive medicine where we welcome offspring as biological even if the child was the product of donated sperm and egg. And we've somehow managed to accept a bewildering array of familial choices from multiple stepparents, two moms, or a single grandparent. But, thanks to society's misgivings and misconceptions about adoption, birth mothers are damned if they do and damned if they don't. By indicating that placing a child for adoption is a selfish or painless choice when it's not, or talking about birth mothers as if they were all crack-addled prostitutes or at the very least wayward youth, we not only limit a woman's right to choose but also shut out the possibility that there are other people out there who would love to adopt. Why not try respecting these women as mothers able to make the best decision for themselves and their pregnancies—even if that decision is not to parent?

To view article: http://www.newsweek.com/id/238276

The 411 on the Adoption Education

2010-05-14T20:46:00.000-07:00

As the Adoption Education Board member, I figure if I am confused, then others might be too! So...here is a little information about Adoption Education for current adoptive applicants of the Western WA FSA Chapter:

• A minimum of 10 hours of Adoption Education are required for new applicants (anyone applying after January 1, 2010). All approved applicants are encouraged to get as much Adoption Education as possible.
• Prospective birth parents will be informed regarding the amount of Adoption Education attended by prospective adoptive couples.
• The LDS Family Services (LDSFS) Western WA Office has established 5 Adoption Education classes which are required for all new applicants.
• These classes will be held monthly as well as at other various times during the year. (Currently, on the 3rd Thursday of the month in the Renton LDSFS office at 7pm (lasting 60-90 minutes). Additional opportunities to attend these classes will be set up as needed. Currently, they are scheduled in Oregon (on Saturday, June 19th, 2010, 10am -3pm) and will also be held in Renton on (Saturday, August 21, 10am-4pm). The Class Outline can be found under the Education tab found at the top of this page.
• Additionally, all applicants are required to attend a birth parent panel or birth parent interactive event (such as scheduling to meet with a birth parent for personal feedback on your profile).
• Beyond the 5 office sponsored courses and a birth parent panel or event, Adoption Education hours (for a minimum total of 10) can be obtained through FSA sponsored Adoption Education events and/or the Regional FSA Conference (which will be held in WA this November) or National FSA Conferences (in Utah annually – July 30-31, 2010) and/or outside Adoption Education (such as classes sponsored by the State Division of Health and Human Services (or other reputable agency).

Hopefully the above information helps to answer any questions you may have regarding Adoption Education requirements and opportunities for our chapter. The Western WA FSA Chapter Blog (http://www.fsawa.blogspot.com) and the Western WA Office Blog (http://adoptionhub.blogspot.com) will post Adoption Education opportunities regularly. If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact a member of the LDSFS Office Adoption Team (listed on the right side bar of this blog).
I look forward to meeting more of you as we journey together through the maze and blessings of adoption.
Larissa

Adoption Education and Outreach

2010-05-12T13:42:00.000-07:00

The next few posts that will be coming in are about Adoption Education and Outreach, so be sure to continue to check back often! We will be posting information such as

FAQ's about education hours
A schedule of educational opportunities
High School Outreach Programs that LDSFS and FSA are working on getting started

So please feel free to post your questions in the comment section! Thank you Larissa, our FSA Education chair, for your information and hard work! For additional information check out LDSFS blog: http://adoptionhub.blogspot.com/

Girls Night Out and Birth Mothers Day Success!

2010-05-10T00:46:00.000-07:00

A special thanks to those who attended Girls Night Out and created amazing earrings for our local birth moms. It was a great night and well deserved brunch! Thanks for donating food and your talent!

If you were unable to attend here are some pictures of all the fun you missed out on!

Pam and Larissa setting the tables

Jen, Cassie, Jillian, and Amy working away at the earrings

JayLynn setting up the food area

Many are missing, but the gang at the end of the event with the finished product.

Pam, Larissa, Julianna, Cassie, Denise and Jen (missing are Tara, Bonnie, Amy, and Jillian)

We sure missed having you there and hope that you will be able to get out to our next event: Summer Picnic coming up in July. Check back in the future for more details.

A new link

2010-04-15T22:25:00.000-07:00

Tawnia has a blog for the LDSFS office in Renton and wanted me to share the link with all of you. I have added it to the sidebar for quick and easy reference. Go check it out!
http://adoptionhub.blogspot.com/

Girls Night Out Invitation

2010-04-11T22:45:00.000-07:00

Everyone should have recieved this in an email but here it is as well. Just click on it to enlarge it so you can read it better. PLEASE email or call me (360-464-5887 / julianna_mortensen@yahoo.com) and let me know what you can do to help this pull together! Adoption wouldn't be possible without our WONDERFUL Birthmothers so lets pull together and give them a brunch they will never forget!

Thank you for your help!

Call for Help

2010-04-10T23:42:00.000-07:00

We are linked to Facebook!

2010-04-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

Ok I have got us linked to Facebook! If you click the share button in the top right hand corner of the blog it will post a link on your profile to the blog. If you click the Join our Group botton in the bottom left corner of the blog it will link you to the FSA group and give you the chance to join the group. The only catch is that you have to be logged into facebook before clicking the "join our group button"... So just hit the share button first and log on, then hit the join our group button! Wala!!! I am sure there is an easier way to do this but for now, it works! Enjoy!

Face Lift

2010-04-06T09:01:00.000-07:00

Well Hello everyone! This is Julianna and I have been asked to take over the FSA WA AK blog. I am starting out with a couple of things; first off I am giving the blog a face lift and need your help.

1- Do you have a website for your family? Would you like it linked to our blog? If so I need the address. Feel free to just post it as a comment to this post. I will take that address, link it to the blog and create a cute little link button like the ones you see to the right, so that all we have do to see your site is click your button.

2- Do you have an article, information, website, info, or anything to add to the blog? I am wanting to utilize the blog to not only inform everyone about upcoming activities, adoption opportunities, pertinent information to LDSFS, but also to educate about all aspects of adoption. Anything you have to contribute please email it to me at julianna_mortensen@yahoo.com

Once the face life is complete I am hoping to keep the blog updated on a monthly basis, at least, with upcoming dates and activities, opportunities, reminders, new adoption information and so forth... so make it a point to visit back regularly!

-Julianna

2010 Families Supporting Adoption National Conference

2010-03-28T22:57:00.000-07:00

Are you thinking of attending the Annual 2010 FSA National Conference in Utah? It is always a fabulous event and a great way to add to your required adoption training hours.

This year it will be held on Friday, July 30, 2010 at 9:00am through Saturday, July 31, 2010 at 5:00pm in the Davis Conference Center (1651 North 700 West, Layton, UT 84041).

Here is a little blurb from the National FSA Facebook page:

We are very excited to announce a new addition to our National Conference. This year we are inviting individuals (including children) to submit art work that represents some aspect of adoption. We will be displaying the pieces at the conference. There will be more information to come. Please start spreading the word.

Adoption Voices

2009-07-20T08:31:00.000-07:00

Do you all know about Adoption Voices? If not you need to check it out. It is a social networking site just for those of us whose lives have been touched by adoption. Think of it like facebook just for the adoption community.

Click on the icon above to visit and explore.

Book Review: A Love Like No Other

2009-05-14T15:13:00.000-07:00

A Love Like No Other
by Pamela Kruger (Editor), Jill Smolowe (Editor)

For those of us waiting, wishing, longing, there is something soothing and reassuring about hearing and reading the experiences of families whose wait is over. We long to hear that the miracle that we continually hope and pray for will come to pass. It strengthens our faith, reassures us that the Lord is listening, and lengthens our patience.

For those of you who have all ready welcomed miracle children into your families, you may enjoy rejoicing with others who understand the road you have traveled. You may also find comfort in the acknowledgment that despite the difficulty we go through in building a family through adoption, that road does not end with a placement and finalization. Nor is the continuing road always smooth and easily traversed. In addition to the usual ups and downs of parenting, those of us who are called to adoption will have an extra dimension to our family that we are responsible to help our children navigate. The authors of these essays share their children’s reaction to being adopted and how they, as parents, responded to those reactions.

A Love Like No Other: Stories from Adoptive Parents is a deep well of experiences that we can dip into when our own faith is diminished. It may serve well as a periodic “pick-you-up,” reading one essay at a time or you may read it as I did, obsessively over the course of two days, giving me a much needed infusion of hope and resolve.

Now, be forewarned, you may not only need a box of tissues, but you may also need an open mind. These essays are written by parents who adopted domestically and internationally, families who were joined by newborns and families who brought school age children and teens into their families, parents who honor their children’s native heritage and those who hardly acknowledge it. You may not agree with their decisions, with their philosophy, or even their way of life, but one thing is beyond discussion, these parent love their children with a fierce and binding love.

Each of us will react to each of these essays differently. We will each relate to the essayists in our own way. For me the experience of Amy Rackear in her essay “The Second Time Around” hit close to home and, although our situations are not entirely similar, her words and her story resonated with me, giving me the resolve to move forward during a difficult time in our own adoption journey.

The experiences recorded in this book are as diverse as the children we adopt. Somewhere within the pages of this book you are likely to find a family who has walked the road you are now facing, or has walked the road with you. Regardless, each of the stories will teach you something and increase your love for adoption.

Adoption Mini-Conference, Saturday, May 16th at 9:45 am at LDSFS in Renton

2009-04-29T21:51:00.000-07:00

Here is the schedule of events for Adoption Education:

09:45-10:00 Welcome and Snack
10:00-10:30 Adoptive Couple Panel
10:30-11:00 Teen Adoptee and her parents (Melissa)
11:00-11:30 Nickie Wood, LDS Family Services
11:30-12:00 State of Washington, Kim Johnson, Foster Care Licenser
12:00-12:30 Birth Parent Panel
12:30-01:00 Lunch

All current LDS Family Services applicants are expected to attend. Anyone interested in learning more about adoption is welcome. Due to the limitations of the location, childcare is not provided.

PLEASE CLICK ON THE IMAGE BELOW FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS.

Remembering Birthmother's Day

2009-04-29T10:31:00.000-07:00

This was a great article about how Birthmother's Day came to be and how it help Birthmothers heal and support one another.

Mother's Day tinged with sadness for birthmoms

A Great Resource

2009-04-28T23:00:00.000-07:00

In doing some research, I came across a wonderful resource.

The Washington State Adoption Council’s
2009
Adoption Information Exchange

Click on the title to download this valuable packet of information.

Here is the table of contents to give you an idea of what information it contains:

Section 1 Domestic Adoption Agencies. . . . . . . Page 3-4

Section 2 International Adoption Resources . . . Page 5-7
Agencies
Support Groups
Community Resources

Section 3 Special Needs/ Foster Adoption . . . . . Page 8-11
Community Organizations
DSHS and Private Agencies
Support Groups

Section 4 Adoption Attorneys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 12-13

Section 5 Pre- and Post-Placement Providers. . . Page14-15

Section 6 General Community Resources . . . . . . Page 16-18
Organisations
Support Groups

Section 7 Counselors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 19-20

Section 8 Search and Reunion Resources . . . . . . .Page 21