Adoption Navigation Services at Parsons C&F Center

Services Provided: The ultimate goal of the program is to navigate and support families through all phases of adoption while empowering them for growth, and to support positive outcomes for all involved through the provision of the following services: training opportunities, referral to adoption sensitive practitioners, agencies, child care info and referral, consultation and support. Anyone interested in adoption support can access by calling the helpline # below. See program flyer for more info.

Adoptive Families of the Capital Region (AFCR)

Services Provided: The Adoptive Families of the Capital Region, Inc. (AFCR) is an adoption support group for adoptive families and individuals hoping to build their family by adoption. AFCR hosts a variety of adoption education programs and social events in New York’s Capital Region.Individuals who have attended AFCR’s educational programs have increased their understanding of the complexities and lifelong aspects of adoption. Some of the topics presented in adoption education programs have included: how to adopt, openness in adoption, adoption and the schools, developmental issues, attachment issues, special needs adoption, and transracial adoption issues. AFCR hosts social events for families and their adopted children which has included adoption cultural programs, playgroups, and outings for families.

Capital District DDSO -OPWDD

Services Provided: Family Support Services Coordinators are available at each of OPWDD’s regional Developmental Disabilities Services Offices (DDSOs) to help families access Family Support Services. Family Support Services can help in times of crisis when a family member or loved one becomes ill, or when things get difficult at home for other reasons. Find out more information about these services and supports by calling your local Family Support Services Coordinator. Support services may include: information and referral, family and individual counseling, recreation, after-school programs, support groups, transportation and specialized equipment and home modifications. Other contact is Eugene Gardner.

Family STAR

Services Provided: A program initiative of Adoption STAR providing a full service post adoption support program including clinical counseling, support groups, nationwide post adoption contact correspondence services, and search and reunion services. Associated with Tapestry Books, a premiere online source for adoption books and resources. See website for more online resources and articles, info about services and upcoming events. Albany 518-391-2515; NYC 917-470-9340; Syracuse 315-703-7511; Binghamton 607-330-2158; Rochester 585-672-5227; Poughkeepsie 845-457-4883

Helen Petel

Services Provided: Helen is an experienced and informed adoptive parent who led an adoption parent support group for many years. Can provide information and support to potential and current adoptive parents. Has experience with special need, international and domestic adoption.

Parent Network of the Capital Region

Services Provided: The mission of the the Parent Network of the Capital Region is to provide parents with the knowledge, skills, resources and support to effectively advocate for their children and to facilitate productive relationships between parents and school districts for the benefit of students with disabilities. Services offered offered free-of-charge include: Information on special education and disabilities, Individual advocacy and support for parents, parent support groups, referral and connections to professionals and other organizations, training and workshops, resource center with Internet Access and a quarterly newsletter. See website for more information on specific services.

To find upcoming foster and adoptive parent support group meetings, trainings, and other special events on the Coalition's event calendar cclick here.