Process

People are asking where we are in the whole process...well...the very beginning. We completed an application to Villa Hope, once approved we met with their team. They explained the overall China Special Needs Program and the beginning of the adoption process...The Home-study. In order to start the Home-study we have to complete what they call the Clearance Packet and the Formal Alabama Packet. We have to compile a lot of information such as financial statements, employee letter, proof of health insurance, Birth Certificates, Marriage License, etc... In addition there are several forms we have to sign. We have to complete a Statement of Motivation letter (why we want to adopt) and Our Child Statement (describing child we would like to adopt). We will meet with Dr.Chambers at UAB International Adoption Clinic to discuss different disabilities. We have already had our fingerprints taken for Child Abuse Clearance. Once ALL of that information is completed we will turn it into Villa Hope. They will then assign a Social Worker to us. We should have 3 visits with her/him in our home. That will complete the Home-Study part. Then we begin the USCIS Application and Dossier Packet. We will know what is involved in these later. The Dossier is everything compiled together and sent to China. Once that is approved by China, we will be able to be matched with a child!!!! All of this could take up to a year. Once matched we have 72 hours to review that child's file. This will be all medical testing that China has completed on that child and the foster families observations. All special needs children live in a foster village with a family. Once we accept a child it takes 6 months to have everything finalized and travel arrangements completed. We will have to stay 2-2 1/2 weeks in China.
Well, this is how we understand the process as of now ;) I am sure we will learn new things every day. I will update as we have something. Everything will move pretty slow for a while.
Your emails and comments have already been very encouraging. Thanks for following our journey.