Infant Networking

Q: What is the Infant Networking Program?
A: It is an infant program that is facilitated through CHS and was established to help families wishing to adopt infants. The goal of the program is to network, or connect, families or individuals seeking to adopt with the birth parents placing their children for adoption. The majority of the families are Caucasian families wanting to adopt. The majority of the babies referred to this program are Caucasian yet we have placed African-American/Caucasian (2), Hispanic (1) and Caucasian/Hispanic (2) over the past 5 years of this program.

Q: How long does it usually take to adopt?
A: For families without children we hope to place within 12 to 24 months; if a family already has a child, it could be up to 3 to 4 years.

Q: What is the best way to select an adoption agency?
A: Networking with other adoptive parents; checking out the credentials of the agency via the State Licensing Department for Adoptions; attending Adoption Support Groups where agencies give presentations about their programs.

Q: What is an open adoption?
A: An open adoption is where the birth parent and adoptive family share identifying information.

Q: Can the birth mother change her mind?
A: In NC, a birth parent that signs a consent to place their child for adoption has 7 days to make sure of that decision. He/she can revoke before the 7 day period expires.

Q: How much contact can I have with the birth family?
A: It depends on the agreement between the birth parent and the adoptive family and it varies greatly.

Q: What is a waiting family profile?
A: A portfolio of pictures and some descriptions of the family that is shared with the birth family.