In designated adoption, the birth parent(s) and adoptive family find each other through someone outside LDS Family Services. This person is referred to as a third party. The third party tells the birth parent(s) and adoptive family only nonidentifying information about each other. Once the birth parent(s) and adoptive family decide to pursue an adoption, the birth parents, adoptive family, or third party may contact LDS Family Services for more information and services, including adoption planning.

Who can participate?
Any family or birth parent interested in adoption can participate.

Who can act as a third party?
Adoptive families may tell family members, friends, and personal and professional acquaintances of their interest in adopting and how they can help the family make an adoption happen.

What information can be shared by the third party?
The third party may share such information as the physical description of the adoptive family and birth parent(s), personality traits, educational background, talents, hobbies, interests, values, goals, church activity, and involvement with extended family.

Can the birth parent(s) and the adoptive family share information with each other?
Yes! Within agency guidelines, the birth parent(s) and adoptive family can create a plan for communication. This plan may include exchanging letters, pictures, and small gifts, and even meeting in person if they desire.

What does LDS Family Services do for a family once they have found a child to adopt?

• Completes the required adoptive family home study.
• Provides professional support and counseling to birth parents, their families, and adoptive families.
• Gathers and shares available nonidentifying background information about the child and birth parent(s).
• Coordinates legal and medical services for the birth parent(s).
• Provides the required supervisory visits after placement.
• Completes any additional paperwork required for out-of-state adoptions.