The Adoption Process

1. Contact Us

Because this is a new program, we ask that before submitting your official application, you contact us to discuss if this is the right program for your family.

2. Meet Your Adoption Specialist and Complete a New Client Packet

If this program is a good fit, you’ll submit the application documents and fee and be assigned an adoption specialist. Your adoption specialist will be your primary contact, providing support, answering questions, and offering additional information. You will also receive step-by-step instructions for the initial stages of the adoption process such as the home study, pre-adoption training, US immigration application, and dossier preparation.

3. Complete Training

For families adopting from the Dominican Republic, Gladney's pre-adoption training focuses on understanding the specific challenges faced by these children. It ensures parents are well-prepared to meet their new child's physical and emotional needs.

4. Complete a Home Study

It is essential to begin your home study as soon as possible. Depending on where you live, you may be required to use a Gladney home study partner. A current, valid home study is required to pursue a specific child. Your New Client Packet will include a packet of information to pass along to your social worker at your first home study visit.

5. Pursue a Waiting Child

Before submitting an Adoption Application for a specific waiting child, ensure you have a current, begin research and preparation:

• Research the child’s special needs conditions and connect with support groups for parenting children with those needs.
• Obtain information from doctors, specialists, friends, or families about children with similar conditions.
• Identify medical specialists who can treat or consult about the child's condition. Use the list of well-known International Adoption Medical Clinics if needed.
• Be prepared to show proof of parental training, experience, education, or understanding regarding the specific medical condition.

6. Prepare Your Dossier

To be matched with a child, you must prepare a comprehensive dossier.