What We Do :: Searching and Reunion
Searching through Adoption Network Cleveland
Adoption Network Search...
... to offer assistance, information and support to all those involved in search throughout the duration of the process, including post reunion.
Call (216) 325-1000 and ask for Linda Bellini.
Adoption Network Cleveland assists members in their searches. We have successfully helped birthparents, siblings, adoptees, and even extended families find each other. Our assistance includes providing information on public records, search techniques, and emotional support during your search.
Adoption Network Cleveland has always been a strong advocate for access to birth records and the right of adult adoptees and birth families to search for each other while taking into consideration some people’s desire for privacy. It is our belief that search and reunion can be a powerful experience for all involved.
Since 1988, we have facilitated over 2,000 search and reunions. Although some people choose to employ a search firm, we at Adoption Network Cleveland have seen that there is great emotional benefit in conducting and leading the search yourself. In addition, our staff and volunteers provide support via "soft shoulders" from those who have searched and reunited in the past. Because the outcomes during the search process can vary widely, providing adequate and thoughtful support during the search is vital to long term healing.
For more information on searching, call Adoption Network Cleveland at (216) 325-1000 and ask to speak to Linda Bellini, Program Coordinator/Adult Adoptees and Birthparents.
Search requirements:
For all persons wanting to search:
- Paid search membership of $90, which includes a one year Adoption Network Cleveland membership.
For persons in the Northeast Ohio area:
- Attendance of at least two Adoption Network general meetings.
- Local area members manage their own search and receive assistance through attending monthly search workshops. Depending on their circumstances, they may also receive telephone assistance inbetween search workshops.
For out-of-town members:
- Call us at (216) 325-1000 or send all information you have, along with a specific request for search assistance to our office:
Search Coordinator
Adoption Network Cleveland
4614 Prospect Ave
Suite 550
Cleveland, Ohio 44103
Your case will then be assigned to a volunteer search manager. Your search manager's role includes doing legwork and making local calls related to your search, guiding you on actions you can take from where you live and communicating with you. (Please remember that your search manager is a volunteer and needs to keep expenses on each case to a minimum and if you prefer to talk on the phone rather than receive letters, calls need to be at your expense.)
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