The President of the American Adoption Congress answers Examiner questions during Adoption Awareness Month. This is the second of four parts.
- Part 1: The AAC
- Part 2: open adoption; Assisted Reproductive Technology
- Part 3: open records and original birth certificates
The AAC site lists Best Practices in adoption services. What policy changes regarding adoption agencies does the AAC support?
That birthparents are entitled to separate legal counsel and counseling independent of the adoption agency.That adoption agencies adhere to the CWLA (Child Welfare League of America) standards for professionalism. That all adoption activity be regulated.
How would your propose funding such separate legal counsel?
Adoption is a multi billion dollar industry. There is money in the public sector to train and counsel adoptive parents, and there should money as well to support birthparents. In the private sector, adoption is basically unregulated, with large payments going to adoption facilitators and attorneys. There is plenty of money in adoption....it is just not going for the right services.
Would you explain further the idea of regulating?
Your hairdresser needs a license to practice but an adoption facilitator does not. To do adoption, there must be some education and professional standards. Social workers in the public sector may have a MSW or training, but its the wild west in the private sector. That is why there is so much fraud and misrepresentation. Some mandated reporting to the state on number of adoptions, failed adoptions, client satisfaction. Required post adoption follow up to make sure the family is doing well.
What events are you holding in 2010?
Our National Conference takes place March 18 through 21, 2010 in Sacramento. This year's theme is VOICES OF ADOPTION SPEAKING OUR TRUTH, RESTORING OUR RIGHTS. The Conference Chair is Donnie Davis - pdj27@aol.com.
We are also having a membership drive for Adoption Awareness Month. Information and applications can be found on our website.
Thank you very much for sharing your perspective with Examiner readers.
My pleasure.
Related article: Best Practices of adoption agencies
Related interviews:
Mary Robinson, CEO/President of the National Council for Adoption
Patricia Cimino, 20-year case worker in open adoption
Comments
It sounds like the American Adoption Congress continues to act on behalf of the best interests of adopted individuals and everyone involved in the process.
Thanks for gathering this information.
I'm glad to know that they're moving forward in making appropriate changes. Such great information.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!