Upcoming Events

Adult Adoptee Panel Discussion: Adoptees Share Their Experiences What does adoption look like through the lens of someone who was adopted?  How does someone who was adopted suggest talking to children about adoption?  This class is conducted with a panel of adults who were adopted as children.  The panelists discuss their lives, the history of their memories about adoption; when they were told, how they were told, and what they thought and felt about being adopted.  Usually the panel consists…

Join Becky O'Connell, one of our temporary care providers, and learn the "baby basics".  Becky will discuss "The Big Three" (You will learn what they are!) and include suggestions and demonstrations to help you understand, enjoy, soothe and stimulate your baby.  This class is suitable for waiting families, those with infants under one year, and anyone who needs a refresher course in infant care.  Parents are welcome to bring babies (only those younger than three months please.)  Attendance will be…

This is a moderated panel discussion.  The panel is comprised of birth parents that have placed children for adoption.  Panelists will discuss their personal experience with adoption and address topics that they consider important and that are raised by the moderator.  Audience members will have an opportunity to ask questions.  They will be asked to examine already existing beliefs about what birth parents are thinking when initially considering placing a child for adoption – and what they think and feel…

Kay Holler, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, will explore the stages of a child’s development, and what he/she is thinking about in terms of adoption at each stage. She will also discuss how to talk about adoption with your child and the importance of offering emotional support. Kay has been working in the adoption field for 27 years. She worked for a large social service agency from 1990-1997. Since then, she has been providing therapy in a private practice setting for…

Recent research in neuroscience has confirmed what many clinicians have long known: Early relationships between caregivers and infants/young children matter and have lifelong implications for children. In order to help each child reach their potential, supportive and caring relationships are essential. This lecture will address the process of creating lasting attachments with adoptive children, some challenges to the process, and guidance and tips to overcome difficulties. Dr. Laura Brock Fraint, clinical psychologist, will address unique attachment issues for adoptive families…

Attorney Genie Miller Gillespie will discuss the steps that prospective adoptive parents should take to achieve a safe and legal adoption. Discussion will focus on the legal issues in adoption, which include proper preparation, termination of parental rights, limiting legal risk, applicable Illinois and federal law, the process of doing an Illinois adoption, and the complications of an interstate adoption.   REGISTER HERE   Free for ACI Families/Alumni $30 for Non-ACI families Payment for Non-ACI families can be made by…