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.