Joy Adoption Services FAQ

1. Tell us a little about the founding and development of your organization?
   I have been employed in the field of adoption since 2009. Since that time, I have worked in a supervisory position for two international adoption agencies. With the decline of international adoptions, I began focusing on domestic adoptions and homestudies. Presently, 95% of the homestudy reports I complete are for families wishing to adopt domestically. When I began working in the adoption field, I knew that I wished to be involved with adoptions throughout my life. With the onset of COVID and many months spent at home, I made the decision to become licensed as a child placing agency. This will allow me to commit to adoption throughout my lifetime and spend more time with my own children.
2. How are your adoption home study and your organization unique?
   I am truly passionate about what I do. I recognize that adoption is one of the most incredible life experiences one can experience and I find great joy in playing a small role in each family’s journey. I pride myself on being available to prospective adoptive parents during the initial inquiry phase, during the homestudy process, and for years to come. I recognize the importance of completing adoption homestudies thoroughly and in a timely manner, as it is typically the last item needed for a family to enter active status.
3. Why are you passionate about adoption and the home study process?
   In middle school, I stood in a crowded court room while the judge finalized the adoption of my cousins. In that moment, I knew that I wanted to commit the rest of my life to the journey of adoption. I volunteered at various adoption agencies in high school then began as an intern for an international adoption agency in 2009. I obtained my Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Pacific Lutheran University in 2010, then obtained my Master of Arts in Social Work from Walla Walla University in 2011. Since that time, I’ve been blessed to facilitate and supervise hundreds of international adoptions. I have completed pre and post adoption reports for domestic and international adoptions for the past eight years. Being a mama of two is my greatest joy, and I’m grateful that my role in adoption allows others to experience the love of a family.
4. How long is an adoption home study valid?
   12 months in the State of WA.
5. Approximately how much time is necessary to complete an adoption home study by your organization?
   It generally takes most families 2-3 months to complete the homestudy. The timeframe for completion truly depends upon how quickly families can complete the necessary paperwork. Child abuse clearances are conducted for all locations that prospective adoptive parents have resided in since their 18th birthdays. This item generally takes the longest to complete.
6. Can adoptive parents use a home study completed by your organization to adopt a child born in another state?
   Yes – I conduct homestudies that are valid for a placement in all states. They are ICPC compliant.
7. If you complete my home study, do you also have to complete my post-placement visits?
   Most families choose to utilize the same social worker for their homestudy and post placements. It brings me great joy to see the adoption process come full circle. Post placement reports are one of my favorite parts in the journey!
8. How many post-placement visits does your organization require?
   The State of WA requires at least one home visit within 30 days. I defer to the state of placement for remaining post-placement requirements.
9. What is some advice you can give to potential adoptive families about the home study process? What should they be prepared for?
   Do not stress – truly! I am here to support your family and walk alongside you throughout your adoption journey. I truly look forward to getting to know who you are as individuals and as a couple. All paperwork for the homestudy process is now completed in writing – to allow you to provide thoughtful responses without feeling rushed. The home visit is likely much more laid back than you are anticipating – I will visit to get to know your family and to see the beautiful life you have created together.
10. What do your home study social workers look for in a home and a family when they visit potential adoptive families' homes?
    I look to ensure that there is adequate space for a growing family, and that you have created a safe environment where the child can grow up. Families should have working smoke detectors, a fire extinguisher on each level, and a carbon monoxide detector. The child should have their own bedroom, which is equipped with a closet, window, and room to store personal belongings. If there are any pools or large bodies of water, safety measures should be in place. All guns or weapons should be secure in a locked area with ammunition stored separately.
11. Are you Hague accredited, and if not, does your international home study comply with Hague International Standards?
    N/A – not Hague accredited.
12. Do you have experience in completing the home study and working with international placement companies?
    I have 8 years of experience conducting pre and post-adoption reports for international adoptions. I can complete international reports for Hague-accredited agencies that are willing to review and approve my reports.
13. Are there other services and benefits you would like to share about your company?
    Thanks for considering Joy Adoption Services!