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With the Will of the Web
Internet Research and Adoption By Carma Haley Shoemaker
The Web Helps OutWhile prospective parents can use the Internet to find others, they can also use it to help others find them. "Develop a personal Web site that reflects your family," Caldwell says. "Describe in detail the qualities that make your family special. Make sure that family photos are close up enough to see your eyes! View other family resumes online before preparing your own. Which photos are most appealing? What colors, designs and layouts draw you?"
However, Caldwell says to be sure to protect your privacy and do not list your employer, salary, home or work phone numbers or your address online. Do list your occupation, hobbies, pets and photos. Caldwell advises using either your lawyer's or agency's telephone number rather than your own. Do not reveal personal information to anyone too quickly.
Although Web sites for aiding in adoption seem commonplace today, it has not always been so. The very first Internet site devoted to helping prospective adoptive parents and prospective birth parents meet was established in 1995: Adoption Online. In fact, the world's first successful Internet-assisted adoption was completed in March 1996 using Adoption Online.
"Since that time, we have helped many families grow through adoption, and we can help you too," says the welcome page of AdoptionOnline.com. "The same spirit of innovation and excitement that motivated us to create this service is alive and thriving at Adoption Online today. We are constantly evolving, growing and creating new ways to help you adopt."