How to pick an IA Agency

Jenn is Silly

I know this sounds weird because we're post adoption- but with our daughter we didn't use an agency.

For our next adoption (IA through Colombia) we'll need an agency, but I have no clue how to even go about picking one.

Any suggestions?

MommaT357

We knew we wanted to adopt from China, so we researched agencies that have great programs in that country.  After that, I think it's kind of just which ever one you feel most comfortable with.  

Robby6

I would look for an agency that has had an accredited program in Colombia for some time, rather than a pilot program.  You will obviously have to choose a Hague accredited agency too, but I would ask any agency you are considering for tons of references- APs who have been home a long time, APs who recently just arrived home, and PAPs who are in-process. I would also research thoroughly their in-country attorney. 

That said I personally recommend Gladney, Spence Chapin, or Children's Home Society & Family Services.

miss1180

we are adopting from South Korea. When we were looking for an agency- we just started by looking for agencies that had Korean adoption programs. Some things we looked for were : the length of time that they have been doing adoptions from Korea, the kinds of support they offer throughout the process, openess with information

   We ended up choosing Holt international. They pretty much started adoption from Korea during the Korean war (so over 50 years ago). They are very big- with offices all over the US (including our state- which means there are lots of people we can go to for anything we need), AND a really big plus for us was that they offer all kinds of support, even after the adoption (there is an adoptee camp the kids can go to when they're older to meet other adoptees, they have familiy picnics were you get to hang out with other adoptive families.... i think thats SOO important, especially with international adoption when the kid might not necessarily look like you. I think its going to be important for them to see "Hey! my family isn't the only one like this!"

 we just felt like they were just out to take our money and give us a baby... they genuinely care about the kids and that they have happy well adjusted futures.

Jenn is Silly

Thank you so much for the feedback!

I really like Holt actually- in a past career I worked very closely with them, but they do not have a Colombian program, and that is where we are drawn.  You will love working with them!

Right now I'm drawn to Gladney, but feel I should continue checking out programs just to make sure.

Thank you again!