The Adoptive Parents Committee, Inc. (APC) was formed in 1955. It started out with a group of people who wanted to share their adoption experiences together. According to their website, it’s the oldest adoptive parent support group in North America with over 2,600 members.

The purpose of this organization is to increase awareness about adoption to the public and elected officials. Chapters are located in New York City, New Jersey, Long Island and the Hudson region. Chapters offer workshops covering a wide variety of topics on adoption, and often feature guest speakers and panelists. They also offer adoption workshops for those considering adoption and those who have already completed the adoption process.

Examples of pre-adoptive and post adoptive workshops include:

• Red Flags: What to look out for when adopting independently
  
• Speaking with birth parents and writing a profile
  
• Bonding and communicating with your baby

In addition to workshops, APC hosts an annual adoption conference.

This year’s 30th annual adoption conference will take place on November 21, 2010 at Saint Francis College in Brooklyn, New York. The conference lasts from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Dr. Jane Aronson, the well-known and much respected international adoption pediatrician is the keynote speaker.

Over 85 morning and afternoon Workshops will be available for guests, in addition to forums and seminars. Some of the topics that will be covered include:

• Making the Decision to Adopt
  
• Adoptive over 40 and 50
  
• Adoption and the Internet
  
• International Adoption Paperwork
  
• Transracial Adoptions
  
• Discussing Adoption

In addition to workshops, guests can browse the bookstore and exhibitor area. Over 50 exhibits will be available, and a host of adoption agencies, attorneys and social workers will be on hand to answer your questions. As with any adoption conference, be sure to bring a notebook and pen to take notes.

For more information on the APC and the upcoming adoption conference, visit their website at: adoptiveparents.org.