Specific Adoption Support Groups: 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 Adoptees
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
The Donaldson Adoption Institute (DAI)
Offers research and thoughtful policy on ethical intercountry and domestic adoption, with a strong focus on adoptee-led reform.
https://www.adoptioninstitute.org
Online-Only Support Communities & Forums
Reddit – r/Adoption
A massive online space with adoptees, adoptive parents, and birth parents all interacting in open discussion. Informal but valuable peer support.
https://www.reddit.com/r/Adoption/
Adoption.com Forums
Covers dozens of topics—from open adoption to international search and reunion—with thousands of users. Requires sign-up.
https://adoption.com/forums/
Facebook Groups (private, moderated groups vary in focus)
Search terms to try:
- “Adoptee Voices”
- “Adoptive Parenting Support”
- “Birth Mother Support Group”
- “Transracial Adoption Connection”
Where to Find More?
Use searchable national directories:
