Ongoing support & community
The adoption planning process is only the beginning. Open adoption relationships are dynamic and evolving. Just like any human relationship, they require effort, intention, guidance, honest communication, and flexibility. Our counseling staff is available to support all members of the adoption constellation as they navigate these unique relationships. We provide free post-placement counseling to birth parents, as well as relationship support and guidance for biological and adoptive families. People living in open adoption relationships can contact us at any time for any reason. We also offer opportunities for support, connection, and learning through regular events for OA&FS families and the larger adoption community. Visit our events page to learn more.
Here are just a few examples of reasons people might reach out:
- Differences in expectations regarding visits or contact
- Significant life changes including divorce, death of a family member, moving, etc.
- Help in exploring how to answer tough questions from an adopted child or to help the child understand how to share their own story with others
- Resources and referrals for professional support
- A desire to make connections with people who have shared experiences and can offer mentorship and support
Ways that OA&FS provides opportunities to connect with the community:
- Monthly birth parent virtual gatherings (Learn more and register here) and annual birth parent retreats
- Monthly virtual adult adoptee affinity group (Learn more and register here)
- Peer support cohorts for adoptive parents
- Speaker panels and classes
- Private Facebook groups for prospective adoptive parents, adoptive parents, birth parents, and adoptees
- Mentorship and speaking opportunities
- Summer picnics and winter gatherings for everyone in Seattle, Portland, and Eugene
- Monthly Bulletin newsletter sent to prospective adoptive families and to adoptive families for two years after an adoption
- Quarterly Open Page newsletter with news and updates sent to our entire community (Email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) to join our mailing list)
- Annual report sent to our entire community