Finding the right agency is vital to ensuring a successful adoption. When we decided to adopt, we spent a lot of time checking out adoption professionals to determine the best fit for us. We read web sites, requested packets and attended informational meetings. Our search led us to Family Adoption Consultants (FAC).

Licensed in Michigan and Ohio, FAC is a private, non-profit adoption and foster care agency with more than 30 years of experience. Since opening their doors in 1982, the agency has helped more than 4,500 children find their forever homes. They handle both domestic and international adoptions and are Hague accredited, which means they meet international standards of practice. FAC currently offers international programs in China and the Philippines and can assist families with adoptions from Korea, Latin America and Europe by coordinating services with out-of-state agencies. Their office locations include: Kent, Ohio; Sterling Heights, Mich.; and Howell, Mich.

In addition to performing and coordinating adoptions, FAC offers adoptive parent training, birth parent and prospective adoptive parent counseling, home studies and foster family licensing. They help you successfully navigate the entire process and provide support before, during and after the adoption.

When we were seeking to adopt, we spent a lot of time evaluating agencies. Although we found several good, reputable organizations, FAC stood out in our minds. We liked that the agency was smaller and offered a more personal touch. During our initial meeting with the agency director, it was clear the staff is passionate about adoption, cares about everyone involved and is committed to the best interests of every child. They are also professional, knowledgeable and adhere to the highest ethical standards. Throughout our adoption process, the staff was friendly and patient. They took the time to answer all of our questions and help put our minds at ease during a sometimes overwhelming and stressful time.

I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone considering adoption — both potential adoptive parents and birth parents. If you’re looking for adoption agency with a caring and personal approach and you live in Michigan or Ohio, you might want to consider Family Adoption Consultants.

For more information about FAC, you can check out their website at www.facadopt.org.