Adoption Issues/Expert Profile

Expertise

I have experience with adoption subsidy, the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children and variety of other adoption related matters. I hope that I can be helpful to those who are considering adoption or would like to adopt a child.

Experience in the area

I am a social worker with an MSW and I have over thirty years of experience in family and children's services. I have worked as Director of adoption services and of the Interstate Compact in a large state agency. I have also provided direct services to children and families in a preventive services program. I currently prepare adoption studies for those who are adopting domestically or internationally.

What do you like about this subject?

I find that adoption is a wonderful way to build families. There are many children who are born into situations to which they should not be subjected. Adoption usually gives these children a better chance to have a good life.

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

After working in a variety of areas with families and children, I find it very gratifying to provide adoption services. I want families who have an interest in adopting to follow up on it. There are many children who need adoptive homes.

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

Those who end up adopting are the ones with the most perserverance.

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

In my opinion, the public system (foster care and adoption) is the most problematic. It is wonderful that President Clinton has signed legislation to reduce the time that children remain in foster care, but now this reform must be implemented. There are many problems in the public system that need to be addressed, but few people are willing to own up to these problems.