Support Group Information

A Noncomprehensive, Curated List

Adoption support comes in many forms—some are local and in-person, others virtual and global. Below is a categorized list of support groups and organizations that serve adoptees, birth/first parents, adoptive families, and those navigating transracial, international, or foster-care-related adoption experiences. For additional information on vetting and reviewing individual support groups, see this page HER E.

Serving The Adoption “Constellation” or Triad

There are a number of organization who are dedicated to serving all who are impacted by or have adoption in their family. A listing of several of these organizations serving these broad needs are below.

Adoption Knowledge Affiliates

Peer-led, nationwide (U.S.) A nonprofit dedicated to connection, education and support for all members of the adoption constellation. Primarily online virtual groups meet on a regular basis and have a wide variety of support groups to choose from based upon one’s needs. Participants do need to register in advance online: https://www.adoptionknowledge.org/peer-support-groups.html

Adoption Network Cleveland

Peer-led, nationwide (U.S.) A nonprofit whose mission is to connect and empower individuals, organizations, and communities impacted by adoption and foster care, providing a source of healing for those in need since 1988. Learn more on their website: https://www.adoptionnetwork.org.

Adoption Mosaic

Peer-led, nationwide (U.S.) A nonprofit whose mission is to teach adoption competency, build family legacy, and create community through our services. To learn more about their programs visit their website: https://adoptionmosaic.com.

For Adopted Adults

Adoptees Connect

Peer-led, nationwide (U.S.) and international chapters
A nonprofit that creates spaces for adult adoptees to connect with others through in-person and virtual groups. Each group is facilitated by adoptees themselves.
https://adopteesconnect.com

Dear Adoption

A digital platform amplifying adoptee voices through stories and essays. While not a formal support group, it fosters community and healing through shared experiences.
https://www.dearadoption.com

NAAP (National Association of Adoptees & Parents)

Offers virtual support groups, search-and-reunion assistance, educational webinars, and DNA support for adoptees and parents.
https://naapusa.org

Right to Know

Advocacy and education about donor conception, genetic identity, and adoptee rights, with support spaces and legislative advocacy.
https://righttoknow.us

For Birth/First Parents

Concerned United Birthparents (CUB)

One of the oldest support organizations for birth parents, CUB hosts conferences, local chapters, online support groups, and educational resources.
https://www.cubirthparents.org

First/Birth Mothers Forum

A blog and community space that offers raw, honest discussions on the experience of placing a child for adoption. Also includes comment threads and informal peer support.
https://www.firstmotherforum.com

On Your Feet Foundation

Focuses on post-placement care for birth mothers. Offers retreats, therapy funding, and case management services.
https://www.onyourfeetfoundation.org

For Adoptive Parents

Creating a Family – Adoptive Parent Support Group

Online group via Facebook and Zoom calls. A mix of peer-led and expert-led discussions, especially helpful for parenting challenges and trauma-informed approaches.
https://creatingafamily.org

North American Council on Adoptable Children (NACAC)

Offers parent groups and advocacy for families who have adopted from foster care. Also supports transracial and LGBTQ+ adoptive families.
https://www.nacac.org/help/adoption-parent-groups

PACT, An Adoption Alliance

A leader in transracial adoption support, PACT offers workshops, camps, and online support groups for adoptive parents, especially those raising children of color.
https://www.pactadopt.org

For Foster & Kinship Caregivers

FosterClub

For youth in foster care and foster alumni, but also offers educational materials and online spaces for foster families.
https://www.fosterclub.com

The Mockingbird Society

Works with foster youth and foster families to improve care systems; they host peer-led meetings and advocacy trainings.
https://www.mockingbirdsociety.org

Grandfamilies.org

Support for kinship families (grandparents, aunts/uncles, etc.) raising children through informal or formal care.
https://www.grandfamilies.org

For International Adoptees & Families

Intercountry Adoptee Voices (ICAV)

A global network of adult intercountry adoptees. Offers story collections, webinars, support groups, and international advocacy.
https://intercountryadopteevoices.com

Also-Known-As, Inc.

Based in NYC, this group supports transracial and international adoptees through events, panels, mentorship, and social gatherings.
https://alsoknownas.org

Organizations Focused on Adopted and Foster Youth

AdoptMent

AdoptMent (adoption+mentoring) is a specialized mentoring program where adults who have been adopted and/or spent time in foster care mentor young people that have/or are currently experiencing foster care. Learn more here: https://aprildinwoodie.com/aboutadoptment

Adoptee Mentoring Society

The mission of AMS is to stimulate connection and build community for adopted persons worldwide. We envision a world where all adoptees feel empowered in their identity and experience a genuine sense of belonging. Learn more here: https://www.adopteementorship.org