F2Aers -- agency verus working directly with DCS?

JellyTwoPointO

I'm sure if I click the "next" page enough times, I'll find a thread or twelve like this at some point.... but I was wondering if anyone could tell me the pros and cons of using an agency in the foster-to-adopt system or working directly with a DCS case manager yourself without an agency?  I started by contacting DCS directly by myself, but today I sent in two inquiry forms to local agencies that assist in the foster-to-adopt process, and now I'm wondering what the differences between the two routes are and if one is "better" than another and why?  Thanks!

jmoka7

I was originally going to work directly with CPS, because it made sense. But when I called them to set up classes they weren't very helpful or happy about helping me on the journey. I decided to go through an agency because they were very willing to work with me, very accommodating, and were excited for me on this journey. Now, I just became licensed and I haven't received my first call, so I haven't experienced that part of it yet. I was told that when a family is needed CPS broadcast it to all agencies (including their own) and then the "best" family is chosen. I hope that helps some. GL!

DaisyZH

I'm glad you asked this because I was wondering too - my state's adoption website says the first step is to choose an agency, then it lists the state adoption office, county social services, and a list of "approved voluntary agencies".  When I look at the website for the approved agencies they don't mention anything about foster care adoption so it's a little confusing.

Will keep an eye on this thread, I'm interested to hear people's experiences.

 

lizlemmon19

I had to use a private agency b/c I work as a SW for the state, to avoid any potential conflict of interest.  So far I have been happy with the agency.  The workers generally carry less cases and are a little less cynical.  Of course, this can vary by area or even by person.  You just might get better responsiveness from an outside agency.

HopingforChange

We are working with the state, and our experience has been far from pleasant.  The SWs are overworked.  Things get cancelled with no notice.  It's been hard.  I am assuming you could maybe get more attention/reliable info from an agency.  We might be heading that way soon as we have been trying to get certified since June and still haven't had a single class other than our orientation.

F2AMom

I don't have experience working directly with the state, but I can say that our agency was able to shield us from and help us with so many things that would have frustrated me if I were working directly with the state! The mother of another one of my agency's foster parents was working directly with the state and was not very happy, so she transfered to our agency. She said she wasn't getting calls for kids at all. She had fostered directly for the state in another state however, and was very happy there. Sorry - this probably doesn't clarify much!