Newbie with a question

penguincrazy

My husband and I are starting the process of adopting internationally.  Can anyone recommend a trustworthy agency or have tips on how to choose?  I've Googled a few of the ones we've found that operate in our state and have programs in our desired countries, but I'm not sure if there's something else I should be looking for.

Thanks.

CaptainSerious

If you know what countries you are interested in, I'd start by looking up the agencies that have programs in those countries on the yahoo group "Adoption Agency Research."  It's a phenomenal resource for vetting agencies, that is dedicated to giving honest feedback on agencies. You can ask about the agencies you are interested in directly, and also search their archives and files.

What I did next was to create a spreadsheet with all the questions I wanted to ask, and I called each agency and asked each and every question on the list, inputting their answer into the sheet.  That way, I had a record I could compare later without confusing the agencies.  I got most of my questions from The Complete Idiot's Guide to Adoption, and I added a few of my own.  One question I didn't ask, that I wish I had, is "what fees/costs are not included in your fee chart, and how much, do you estimate each one will be?" because the costs for things like the federal immigration application, having the dossier authenticated, and obtaining a psychological report were far greater than we expected and basically doubled our costs.

I think it's essential to talk to the agencies you are considering, rather than just using their online or print media.  I compared what they said to what I found online and in their materials, and only considered the agencies that were consistent, forthcoming, pleasant, and helpful.  If they couldn't be those things when I was a perspective client, I knew they wouldn't be responsive when they had my money and I was just another file on their desks.

One thing to keep in mind:  you don't have to use an agency that's located close to you.  I'm in NJ, and our agency is in NC.  I've never met my case worker in person, but the agency contracts with local social workers for homestudy/post-placement visits.  If an agency has a good reputation and seems to fit your family, I wouldn't hesitate to use one that's not close.