1. Pre-Placement Training

In order to gain general knowledge of the program, training is required.  This consists of 36 hours of training, divided into 12, 3-hour modules.  The modules are offered on various days and times to accommodate all schedules.  The training focuses on the dynamics of abuse and neglect, which provides information about the child welfare system, and provides insight into the behaviors, characteristics, and personalities of the children who come into care.  No children are allowed.  All spouses must complete the pre-placement training to be approved.  If a couple is not married, keep in mind that only one parent can adopt.  The training is good for 18 months; however, the home study must be completed and approved prior to the 18 months.

2. Application Submission

An application will need completed to foster and/or adopt children.  The application may be obtained at  __________________________  or by requesting Inner Peace Homes to provide an application.  The application may be submitted to Inner Peace Homes at any time, but attendance to some of the pre-placement training is recommended prior to submitting the application to help solidify your desire to continue with the program.

3. The Home Study

The home study on average can take 3 to 6 months.  There will be a series of visits by the home study assessor.  All household members will be interviewed.  A safety inspection of the home will be completed to ensure all safety site regulations are met.  During the course of the study, several documents required by the Ohio Administrative Code will need submitted by the applicant.  If the study is successful, the home can be recommended for licensing for foster care and/or approved for adoption.

4. The Search

Once an applicant has an approved home study, the search for an adoptive child can begin.  Inner Peace Homes will assist the family with searching for a child.  Children can be found on various websites.  Inner Peace Homes also receives fliers from various agencies looking for a home for the child in their custody.  Once a child of interest is found, the agency will submit the homes study to the agency for review.

5. The Match Process

If the custodial agency finds the home study to be a possibility, the home study will be presented at a matching conference.  This is the process of determining the most appropriate family to adopt a child based on the child’s individual needs and the ability of the prospective adoptive parent to meet those needs.  A matching conference shall be conducted to match a child with a family for the purpose of adoption.  The matching conference shall be held prior to the placement of the child for adoption.  Once the adoptive parent has been matched, a scheduled introductory meeting will be scheduled between the child(ren) and the prospective parent(s).

6. Presentation

Typically the custodial agency will meet the family and present the child and answer any questions they may have.  Pictures are often shared at this meeting.  The family is given the opportunity to take information home and talk to family members about the prospect of adding a new family member.

7. Pre-Placement Visits

To assist the family and child(ren) with the transition, visits are held and gradually increased.  These visits may be held at a neutral site or the current foster home and eventually at the potential adoptive family’s home.   Visits usually increase from 1 hour to a half day, to a full day and eventually to weekend visits in the home of the new family.  Each case is uniquely different as it will depend on how visits are going for the family and child(ren) and how fast the transition can happen.

8. Moving Day

The big day arrives and the child(ren) moves in with his/her new family.  An adoption assessor will make several visits and provide support following the move.  Assistance with locating needed services can be offered along with helping the newly-formed relationships.

9. Finalization

After a child has been in the home for 6 months, the adoption can be finalized.  The new family, the child(ren) and adoption assessor go to Probate Court and meet with the Judge/Magistrate.  If everyone is in agreement, the adoption is finalized!

10. Post Finalization

Inner Peace Homes will continue to provide services and advice following adoption.  New families are encouraged to use support groups and community agencies to assist with their bond and future issues that may arise.

General information can also be found by looking up the  JFS 01985, Adoption Subsidies Guide on the Internet at              http://www.odjfs.state.oh.us/forms/findform.asp?formnum=01675