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Post Adoption ServicesAdoption represents a lifelong commitment for both the adoptive parent(s) and the adoptee. Adoption does not end with finalization. At any stage throughout his or her life the adoptee and the adoptive family may have recurring issues, questions, or concerns. Post-adoption services and resources assist families in meeting these needs. The DFCS/State Adoption Unit administers a number of educational, respite and support programs for adopted families. These programs have been developed to assist families who have adopted through the public child welfare agency in Georgia. However, The Georgia Center for Resources and Support is available to all adoptive families residing in the state. Post Adoption Services Currently Available Through the State Adoption Unit:
Adoption AssistanceFinancial assistance, medical assistance, and legal assistance for finalizing the adoption are available for eligible children who meet the DHR definition of special needs and who are placed into an adoptive home. Contact: County Department of Family and Children Services Adoption Reunion RegistryAdoptees, birth parents, or siblings who have been permanently separated through adoption often reach a time in their lives when they want more information about their biological family. This need to know may be due to medical, genetic, genealogical, or personal reasons.The Adoption Reunion Registry provides the following services:
Adopted Teen Empowerment and Mentoring ProgramThe Adopted Teen Empowerment & Mentoring Program (ATEAM) is designed for adopted teens in 6th-12th grades. The ATEAM provides participants with an opportunity for mutual support and self-expression through group interactions with other adopted teens. This group consists of teens and mentors who meet monthly at host sites in each region across the state. Meeting times are generally from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm one Saturday per month with two weekend retreats planned each year. See our calendar of events for more information. Parent transportation is required. Eligible teens are those receiving Adoption Assistance who have been in the custody of a state agency. This program may not be well suited for teens who experience difficulties interacting within a large group setting. Please see our Calendar for more information on local activities and contact numbers for each region of the state. ATEAM Program Administrator Crisis Intervention TeamThe Crisis Intervention Team provides services to adoptive families in need of professional help to improve overall family functioning, preserve the family unit, and provide links to community resources. The team assists adoptive families have finalized an adoption of children who meet the DHR definition of special needs. The Intervention Team provides early intervention to improve the family's well-being, and to increase family bonding. A family must be referred by their local Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS).For more information: County DFCS Adoption Assistance Case Manager Georgia Center for Resources and SupportThe Georgia Center for Resources and Support is available to assist families in locating resources, developing support groups, providing a “buddy” who has an adopted or foster child with similar special needs, a lending library of books and publications relating to adoption and foster care issues, and a Web page that provides current information on resources and training events. The Center is accessed by calling 1-866-A-PARENT. Each region of the state has a Resource Advisor who will respond to calls and assist families in locating community resources and/or other post placement services provided by the state.For further information contact 1-866-A-PARENT State Adoption Unit WebsiteThis website (www.adoptions.dhr.state.ga.us) contains a photo-listing of available children; information on upcoming events relating to adoption, educational information and links to other adoption related sites.Residential Seminar for Adopted Children with Special Needs (Camp PROMISE) Camp Promise provides an opportunity for adopted children to attend a summer camp program with other children and youth who have been adopted. The program consists of week long recreational, educational, and support group activities. This program serves children ages 9-12 and teenagers ages 13-17 during each session. Parents are responsible for providing transportation to and from the program. There will be a special parent program during each session. The program is held at various locations across the state during the summer months. For more information: James Dawson, Program Manager RespiteRespite service is designed to give a brief reprieve from the demands of parenting an adoptive child who meets the DHR definition of special needs. This break allows parents to take time out for themselves, renew family relationships, or enjoy a special hobby or social activity. Respite should be viewed as a wellness service which helps families to maintain positive relationships. Respite should not be used as day care or for ongoing supervision. For more information: County DFCS Adoption Assistance Case Manager
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