Adoption

November Is National Adoption Month
 
The establishment of November as National Adoption Month is a fairly recent national event.  It turns out that in 1976, Michael Dukakis (Democrat) – then the governor of Massachusetts – started adoption week.   Adoption week became quite popular.  In fact it became so popular that in 1984 President Ronald Reagan (Republican) created National Adoption Week.   
 
Not to be outdone – and based on the incredible awareness that National Adoption Week was receiving – President Bill Clinton (Democrat) proclaimed National Adoption Month in 1995.
 
On November 1st  1995, President Bill Clinton made the following proclamation, which is still deployed to spread awareness about adoption.  The proclamation opens with a strong sense of purpose:
 
“For many people across the United States, adoption provides a means for building and strengthening families. It places children into loving, permanent homes where they can flourish and grow up to become happy, healthy, productive members of our national community. Adoption also enables adults to experience the unique joys of parenthood.
 
Toward the end of the proclamation President Clinton reminds us of the work remaining:
 
As we observe National Adoption Month, we celebrate these achievements and recognize the rewards of adoption, but we must also remember that much work remains to be done. Citizens from all communities and organizations from the public and private sectors must join together to renew our commitment to finding permanent homes for each one of America’s children.
 
What makes adoption – the third option –  so different from the first two options (parenting – often single mom parenting and aborting the life of the infant) is that adoption focuses on the future of the child.  Adoption DOES NOT focus on the solving the problem(s) of the birth mother.  Adoption is a solution about preserving a life.
 
Our mission at Right to Life Livingston County is to reach out and educate more people about the benefits of adoption.  Benefits for the birth parents, the adoptive parents and most importantly – the adoptee. 

Considering Adoption in Livingston County, MI?

If you are a pregnant woman thinking about placing your baby for adoption, you are not alone. There are caring agencies and support services in Livingston County that can guide you every step of the way, while respecting your choices and needs.

Steps for Birth Mothers Considering Adoption

  • Reach out to a trusted adoption agency or counselor to discuss your options confidentially.
  • Learn about open vs. closed adoption and decide what feels right for you.
  • Meet with a social worker or counselor for guidance on legal, emotional, and medical support.
  • Review prospective adoptive families and decide what kind of family environment you want for your baby.
  • Work with your agency and attorney to complete the legal paperwork safely and confidentially.
  • Receive ongoing support before, during, and after the adoption process.

Adoption Agencies in Livingston County

  • Livingston County Catholic Charities
    Provides compassionate support to birth mothers considering adoption. Helps with counseling, planning, and connecting with loving families.
    Visit site
  • F&CS Adoption & Counseling Services
    Private non-profit agency offering adoption counseling, private adoption placements, and support throughout the process.
    Visit site
  • Michigan Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE)
    State-wide adoption resource that connects birth parents with licensed adoption agencies and provides educational resources.
    Visit site
  • Livingston County Juvenile Court – Adoption Department
    Handles adoption paperwork and legal processes if you decide to place your child for adoption in Michigan.
    Visit site
  • Post Adoption Resource Center (PARC) – Judson Center
    Offers support and counseling to birth mothers and families after adoption. Region 5 includes Livingston County.
    Visit site

Resources for Birth Mothers

  • Pregnancy Resource Centers – Livingston County
    Provides free pregnancy tests, counseling, and guidance on adoption and parenting options.
    Visit site
  • National Council for Adoption – Birth Parent Support
    Offers education and counseling for birth mothers considering adoption.
    Visit site
  • Medicaid & Prenatal Care Assistance
    Financial and medical support for pregnant women, including prenatal visits, tests, and care.
    Visit site
  • Support Hotlines
    24/7 confidential support for birth mothers: 1-800-712-4357 (Option Line)
  • Counseling & Mental Health
    Professional counseling to support emotional well-being before, during, and after adoption.
    Visit PARC site

Next Steps

You don’t have to do this alone. Here’s how to take the next step safely and confidently:

  • Call or email a trusted adoption agency today for a free, confidential consultation.
  • Ask questions about open vs. closed adoption, medical support, and legal steps.
  • Request counseling or peer support to help guide you through the process.
  • Remember that support is available before, during, and after adoption.

Start now – your choice is respected, and your baby’s future can be full of love.

Remember: Choosing adoption is a brave and loving decision. You have access to guidance, resources, and support to help you make the best choice for you and your baby. Choosing adoption can help you protect your emotional well-being and provide a loving future for your baby, while avoiding the lasting pain and regret that some women experience after abortion