Why Choose International Adoption?
By Kelly Carmody,
Adoption Professional, Adoptive Mom of three
Adoption is a life-changing journey filled with hope, love, and profound meaning. For families considering adoption, the choice to pursue international adoption opens doors to unique opportunities for connection, growth, and giving a child with limited opportunities the love and stability they deserve. Let’s explore the key reasons why international adoption might be the perfect path for your family and why India and Colombia are particularly wonderful options to consider.
The Benefits of Providing a Stable, Loving Home to a Child in Need
Millions of children worldwide live without the comfort and security of a family. International adoption provides an opportunity to change a child’s life forever, offering them:
- Safety and Security: Many children in orphanages or foster care systems face instability and uncertainty and are vulnerable to victimization every day. Adoption gives them a permanent home where they can feel safe and loved, and have opportunities that would not exist in their home country.
- Access to Education and Healthcare: Adoptive families can provide access to medical, developmental, educational and therapeutic resources that may be unavailable or of poor quality in their home countries, contributing to the child’s overall well-being.
- A Sense of Belonging: Beyond physical necessities, adoption fulfills a child’s fundamental right and need to be part of a family where they are valued and cherished.
For adoptive families, the experience of creating a loving, nurturing environment for a child is profoundly rewarding and enriching for parent and child.Unique Cultural and Personal Growth Opportunities for Adoptive FamiliesInternational adoption is not just about giving; it’s also about receiving. Families who adopt internationally gain the opportunity to:
- Embrace a New Culture: Learning about your child’s country of origin—its traditions, language, and history—broadens your family’s cultural horizons and fosters mutual respect and understanding. Welcoming a new culture into your family benefits all members.
- Teach Inclusivity and Empathy: Raising a child from a different background can teach your family—and your community—about diversity and acceptance.
- Grow as Individuals and as a Family: Navigating the complexities of international adoption strengthens family bonds and instills values like patience, resilience, and adaptability.
Adopting internationally encourages families to think globally, celebrate differences, and build bridges between cultures.Why India and Colombia Are Wonderful Countries for International AdoptionBoth India and Colombia have long-established, transparent, stable and structured international adoption programs that prioritize the well-being of children. International Adoption Net is a highly rated agency for both programs and our program coordinators are exceptional in their knowledge, training and compassion. Here’s why we recommend India and Colombia as options to research as you begin to consider adoption:India
- Applicants of Indian Origin (OCI/NRI status): India is a great program for families of Indian origin (OCI/NRI status) as they get priority during the adoption process while having the ability to adopt a child from their shared culture.
- Cultural Richness: Indian culture is one of the world's oldest, with evidence of civilization dating back over 4,500 years. India has a vibrant culture, history, and traditions. Families adopting from India enjoy incorporating elements of Indian culture—like festivals, food, and music—into their daily lives.
- Well-Regulated Hague Adoption Process: India’s adoption system, managed by the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA), ensures ethical practices and thorough safeguards for children and families.
- Opportunities to Adopt: India has a huge orphan population, with an estimated 31 million orphans throughout the country, and an estimated 500,000 children living in Indian orphanages. Although not all these children in orphanages are cleared for adoption, the numbers are vast. At any given time there are about 3,000 children available for matching with families. The government is working on making more children’s files ready every day. India offers opportunities for families to adopt infants and toddlers, sibling groups, as well as children of all ages with a variety of special needs. Many special needs designated in India as mild are very mild by US standards.
Colombia
- Colombian Citizens Heritage Program: Colombia has a Heritage program which allows people with Colombian citizenship, or who qualify for citizenship through their parents, an opportunity to adopt healthier young children (0-5), and a slightly expedited process. IAN has experience assisting Colombian citizens with their Heritage adoption and we invite you to inquire today.
- Focus on Sibling Groups: Colombia places a strong emphasis on keeping siblings together, making it an excellent option for families open to adopting siblings. Culturally Colombia tends to have many more large sibling groups than other countries, with many sibling groups of 2, 3, 4 or more children and the need for their adoption is significant. Colombia is a wonderful option for those seeking to adopt siblings as it is also a more affordable option than multiple individual adoptions.
- Support for Older Children: Families seeking to adopt older children (11-15) will find many healthier children waiting for families.
- Care of the Children: Children living in the care of the Colombian government’s child welfare system (ICBF) receive necessary medical and dental treatment, psychological or therapeutic support, and nutritional support. Children in the care of the ICBF are assigned a team comprising nutritionist, social worker and family attorney, and the team works together to identify the needs of the child, and establish a care plan. Over the years Colombia has been moving away from institutional care and many kids are now in foster homes in addition to some group homes, aka institutions.
- Cultural Pride: Colombia is a country with warm, welcoming people and a rich cultural heritage, from its cuisine to its music and art, easily accessible from the US. With Spanish being widely spoken in the US, it is a comfortable fit for many adoptive families.
IAN is proud of our extensive experience in both India and Colombia, guiding families through the process with integrity and care.Why Choose International Adoption Net (IAN)?With 25 years of experience, International Adoption Net (IAN) has become a trusted leader in international adoption. Here’s why families choose IAN:
- Expertise and Stability: Over the past 25 years, IAN has built strong partnerships with adoption authorities abroad, including India and Colombia, ensuring a smooth and ethical adoption process.
- Personalized Support: IAN’s experienced team in the US and our foreign providers are dedicated to guiding you every step of the way, from your initial inquiry to post-adoption support.
- Commitment to Families and Children: IAN’s mission is rooted in creating loving, lasting family connections, and our 25-year history demonstrates our unwavering commitment to this goal.
Choosing international adoption is a profound decision that creates opportunities for love, connection, and growth. With the right guidance, this journey can be transformative for both your family and the child who will forever call you their own.Are you ready to learn more? Contact International Adoption Net today and let our team help you begin this beautiful journey toward expanding your family. Contact info@internationaladoptionnet.org or call 303-691-0808.
