The work we do at Jewish Family Service is unique and impactful, but one thing that I find especially rewarding is our adoption program. Before working at JFS, I had very limited exposure to the process and experience of adoption, as I only knew a few people who had children through adoption. It is amazing to be a small part of the different journeys people take to becoming parents. From the very first meeting with someone who is interested in adoption, and getting to know them, to witnessing the full circle moments of becoming parents and bringing home a baby, adoption is an amazing experience to observe.
My first experience working with a couple beginning the adoption process was such a joy. I was able to know them as partners and hear how they met and how their relationship developed; it was such a personal and vulnerable story for them to share. We also discussed how to prepare for a child; there are so many emotional and relational considerations that will affect every part of their lives before and after the adoption is complete. After meeting together, I was able to talk to them separately and hear about their childhood and family life, as well as experiences that brought them to meet their partner. I was also able to visit their home and see the environment that would be the baby’s home. And after the excitement of bringing their child home, it’s an amazing experience to visit again and see how they are adjusting to parenthood.
Adoption is such an amazing process to witness, and an extremely rewarding thing to experience through our work at JFS.
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