Workplace adoption networks are developing and prospering in a variety of businesses and organizations.  They are brown bag lunch groups made up of adoptive parents, birth parents, and adopted persons, and they provide benefits to both employees and employers. 

To the employees the networks provide educational and social activities, support for challenges that can be associated with adoption, and guidance for prospective adoptive parents. 

To the employers, the networks create a sense of community, aid in retention and recruitment, mobilize volunteers for corporate sponsorships, improve awareness of benefits, and increase overall diversity in the companies.  And network members participate in a wide-range of activities, such as sharing parenting tips and concerns, talking about their adoption stories and news, and listening to internal and external adoption experts.

Currently, CHSFS works closely with networks at Target Corporation, St. Cloud State, and Guidant.  Also, we are in the beginning stages of helping to establish two additional networks, and would like to get a few more started as well.  Please contact Azur Walters at (800) 952-9302 ext. 2249 if you or other individuals, businesses, or organizations that would be interested in setting up an adoption network. 

Tips for creating an adoption friendly workplace.

Listing of employers that offer adoption benefits.