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SAMPLE

Orientation
Family Profile
Process

When
you are the prospective parent you "apply for the job of adoptive parent", and
begin the matching process, through your family profile. The family profile is
written by a caseworker in an attempt to outline the strengths, experiences,
goals, and expectations of the family. The items discussed in the profile are
essential for agencies and workers to begin helping families with the matching
process.

The first step of the family profile process is the application. When
you express an interest in adopting a "waiting" child, your affiliate
agency will ask you to complete an application to adopt.

Once the application is completed and is accepted by the agency,
applicants are required to obtain clearances. They include a child abuse
history clearance, a Pennsylvania criminal record check and and possibly
an FBI record check.

Families will be invited to attend a preparation program provided by
the agency. This program helps you to understand who the "waiting"
children are by describing their special needs. Information about what to
expect during the adoption process is included in the training, as well as
a description of the family profile process, pre- and post- adoption
services and an explanation of the adoption assistance program.

You will have the opportunity to review and discuss the family profile
content with your caseworker and sign a statement stating you have read
and understood what was written about your family. Your agency will make a
decision as to whether your interests as a family match the needs of the
children in the Statewide Adoption Network, and inform you if your profile
has been approved for a SWAN child, or if it is recommended that you
pursue alternative adoption options.

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