Where do you turn? Who do you trust? What are your choices? Here are some of the most common questions we hear about adoption. As you think of others, please ask them. Gladney is here to help you now and every step of the way.

q: What is adoption?
a: Adoption is the loving choice of biological parents (birth parents) who choose a family to nurture and care for their child. Adoption finds forever homes for children, homes where emotional and financial support create a stable, lifelong future for your child. When considering adoption, you're thinking about your child and what's best for his or her life.

q: What does adoption offer me?
a: You have many options with Gladney:

• You can live on the Gladney campus or stay at home.
• You can choose and meet the adoptive family for your child.
• After placement, you can get photos and letters from the adoptive family.
• Your services can be confidential.
• You have caring counseling services.
• You have the future you choose to have.

q: What does adoption offer my child?
a: By choosing adoption, you give your child:

• The love and security of a mother and a father who are emotionally and financially ready to be parents.
• Counseling resources through Post-Adoption Services.

q: Who chooses the family for my child?
a: You choose the adoptive parents when you are ready. You will have the chance to review profiles from carefully screened, prospective adoptive parents. You can even meet or talk on the phone.

q: Am I strong enough to give away my baby?
a: Adoption is not about giving away your baby. Adoption is about making a parenting plan for your baby by choosing the parents you feel are right for your child.

q: How do I know the adoptive parents will take good care of my baby?
a: : Parents who adopt through Gladney must prove that they are emotionally and financially ready to parent. They must complete a rigorous home study process to be approved as adoptive parents. Since so many couples want to adopt, Gladney is extremely selective about the couples with whom we work. Plus, you can watch your child grow up through the photos and letters sent to you from the adoptive parents.

q: My mother had me at my age, and she raised me. What if she thinks I should raise my baby?
a: : Once you know the facts about adoption, you can make the best decision. Think about the dreams that you have for yourself and your child. You and only you have the right to determine your future. Adoption is a gift of love only you can decide to give.

q: Won't the government help me take care of my baby for the first few years?
a: In limited ways, yes, but welfare only assists with basic necessities. It does not help you buy clothing, toys, gifts and all the extras you may want and need for your child.

q: How do I choose the right adoption agency?
a: You want to look for an adoption agency that cares about you and not just adoption. You want an agency that offers life long services to birth parents, adopted children, and adoptive parents. Also, look for an agency that offers a vast array of services with a personal approach.

q: Why should I work with Gladney?
a: The caring, professional people at Gladney will help you find the resources and information you need to make a choice that is right for you. We offer assistance with pregnancy-related needs, including medical care and living expenses, and access to an experienced attorney to assist with your adoption. Gladney provides emotional support during your pregnancy and beyond, with services that continue to help you after delivery.

q: Will my baby grow up hating me?
a: Adoptive parents tell their children, even as babies, of the tremendous love their birth parents have for them. Adopted children grow up with a great deal of respect and a very special love and appreciation for their birth parents.

Just call 1.800.GLADNEY, and talk with a counselor. No one will judge you. We're here to listen and to help.