What are my options?

Client Reviews

Adriana B.

ACFB was not our first adoptive agency we have explored, but it was the right place for us. They genuinely care about everyone involved in the adoption process, including the birth mothers. They were honest, helpful and supportive. We will forever be grateful, that thanks to ACFB our family is complete.

Amy W.

It was a pleasure to work with Maggie and the rest of the staff at Adoption Center for Family Building. They were great at answering our questions and providing guidance at each step. We were happy with the support we received and the kindness they showed us and the Birth Parents.

Ben V.

Barbara is a very pleasant person to work with, she made us feel comfortable every step of the way. At times during our process we faced difficulties but with her guidance we were able to stay focused and achieve our goal.

Robin R.

Everyone in this organization is amazing. They offer unending support and guidance through what may easily be the most difficult and rewarding journey in life.

B. M.

My daughter was able to place her baby with a lovely couple this week. Thank you, Linda Fiore, for making this all so professional and comfortable as we made the decision that is right for everyone. Thank you to Mary for guiding my daughter so lovingly. God's blessings for the adoptive parents who opened their arms to our whole family. Thank you to all who made this happen! God Bless you!

KC & Alex W.

The best part of working with ACFB is the education you receive before you make any decisions or invest in anything, they want to know your story - the trauma or sadness that you have been through before you start your adoption journey. ACFB creates a successful environment for adoptive parents to create successful families.

What are my options?

Whether you are a teenager, a young adult, or a mother already, an unplanned pregnancy is indeed scary at times. This is a completely normal feeling and you may be looking for some answers about what your options are. Our services are available to help you understand your options. If you choose adoption, we are able to help you make an adoption plan.

Our services are provided to you at no cost, and there is never an obligation to move ahead with an adoption plan. You may reach us by calling: 800-869-1005 or send Linda a text at (773)919-5702. We’ll answer your questions and send you a free information packet.

Let’s look at each of the three options available to you.

Parenting

One must also think about whether they are ready to be a parent. If you are a teenager or young adult, you will likely miss out on some social activities that your peers are enjoying. You may need to reduce your school schedule or work hours in order to care for your baby. You’ll want to consider whether you will be happy making these sacrifices. Talking with a professional counselor, a pastor or family member will be helpful as you explore this option.

Although many women raise children alone, being a single parent can be a difficult undertaking. Single parenting can be a hardship both financially and emotionally. It will be important to have the help of family or friends.

Abortion

Although abortion is legal in this country, not every woman is comfortable with this option. It is a very personal choice that can best be investigated by speaking with a health care professional, a counselor, a clergy person or family and friends. Adoption counselors, crisis pregnancy centers and Planned Parenthood organizations offer options counseling to women with an unplanned pregnancy.

Planned Parenthood and some health departments and hospital clinics offer pregnancy testing, make referrals for pre-natal care and refer women to abortion centers. They may also talk with you about adoption and make referrals to licensed adoption agencies. It is important to note that some crisis pregnancy centers and faith-based organizatons have a stated mission to steer women away from abortion.

Adoption

If the other two options are not viable, you may want to consider making an adoption plan for your baby/child. Adoption is undoubtably the least understood option of all. Having a counselor to answer your questions and explain the adoption process is both helpful and empowering. You will have much to consider if you decide to go down this path.

  1. Open vs. closed adoption
  2. Choosing an adoptive family
  3. Finding ways to discuss adoption with family and friends
  4. Knowing your rights

Where to get information

Many of us turn to the internet for information. There are thousands of adoption sites available online. Unfortunately, not all of the information is accurate or helpful. Adoption laws vary by state so it is important to find information and resources in your own state. You should know that some online advertisers will want you to think they are located in your state when in fact they are not. Review agency websites to determine if they are licensed in your state or contact the Illinois Department of Child and Family Services (or Indiana Child and Family Services) to obtain a list of licensed agencies. Choosing a licensed adoption agency will ensure the legitimacy of the service provider.

Open Adoption vs. Closed Adoption

In your research on adoption, you will quickly learn that open adoption is a very popular option. What is an open and a closed adoption?

  1. Open Adoption – An adoption in which the birth parents have direct contact with the adoptive parents before and after the adoption. Contact information, including names, addresses, and phone numbers may be exchanged, and both parties determine the type and frequency of future contact.
  2. Closed Adoption – An adoption in which there is little or no direct contact between the birth and adoptive parents. An adoption agency or attorney may arrange the adoption, choose the adoptive parents and facilitate the placement of the child.