AFTHtv Season 21 Is Here: New Adoption Stories, Education & Support Now Streaming

Kristy Galbraith — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 15:32:16 +0000

The wait is over! Season 21 of AFTHtv officially premiered yesterday, and we're excited to share a refreshed series dedicated to adoption education, authentic adoption stories, and meaningful conversations that support everyone touched by open adoption. At Adoptions From The Heart, we believe every adoption journey deserves to be heard. That's why AFTHtv continues to [...]

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Adoption News: July 2026

Kristy Galbraith — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:40:35 +0000

Download PDF | Articles Include: Finding Community at The Annual Picnic Help Shape AFTH's Future A Look Back at Our 2026 Family Picnics Staff Spotlight: Christopher Peszka Heart to Heart Partnerships: Creating Change Together AFTHtv Returns This August with A Fresh New Look New On Demand Webinars Open Adoption In The Age of Social Media Birth [...]

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Finding Your Community: The Power of AFTH Support Groups

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:00:42 +0000

Support Groups! This month at AFTH, we wanted to take a moment to highlight one of our greatest resources for all our families. The resource at hand is our wonderful support groups. Adoption is a beautiful thing, but we would be foolish if we didn’t recognize that, as with anything else worthwhile in life, there [...]

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Supporting LGBT Adoptees

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:00:48 +0000

Tips For Helping to Support LGBT Adoptees Since it’s Pride Month, it’s a great time for all of us to be thinking about how we can best support LGBT adoptees. While this might sound relatively straightforward, it’s important to keep in mind that supporting an LGBT adoptee is a lot more complicated than love alone. [...]

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AFTH 2026’s Annual Family Picnic

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 16:00:39 +0000

2026’s Annual Family Picnic Adoption From The Heart’s Annual Family Picnic is coming up fast! This year, on June 14th, will be the 36th Annual Picnic for AFTH. Every year, the Annual Picnic has been a great time for families to join together and celebrate the impact of adoption. This year's picnic is shaping [...]

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National Women’s Health Month

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 06 May 2026 14:15:48 +0000

National Women’s Health Month is celebrated throughout May. During this time, it’s important to educate, empower, and be proactive in women’s and girls’ health. It’s an ongoing commitment to raise awareness, self-advocacy, and access. By prioritizing health today, women are investing in stronger futures for themselves, their families, and their communities. The month is led by the Office on Women’s Health (OWH), [...]

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The Importance of Children’s Books

AFTH Marketing — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 15:23:50 +0000

Books are an important part of a child’s development. As we recognize International Children’s Book Day, we want to acknowledge how essential they are to the growth of children’s minds. At Adoptions From The Heart, we strive to provide resources for every member of the adoption triad. Children’s books are an engaging and meaningful way to share and introduce adoption. Families can connect with their [...]

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Announcing 2026 Spring Educational Series

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 15:18:07 +0000

Adoptions From The Heart is excited to announce its Spring Education Series. We believe education is an essential tool for strengthening families and deepening understanding of adoption. Beginning April 9th, the series will feature four educational classes and one webinar. Each class is designed to educate, support, and guide every member of the adoption triad through their unique journey. Whether you’ve worked with AFTH or another agency, everyone is welcome to attend. All classes will be held on Zoom and fulfill AFTH’s CEU requirements. Classes are $30 per family unless otherwise noted. The webinar is $100 [...]

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Through Both Lenses: Adoptee Social Worker Perspectives

AFTH Marketing — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 19:34:14 +0000

What do you wish expectant parents, adoptive parents, or other social workers knew about the adoptee perspective that is often overlooked? “What I wish more expectant parents, adoptive parents, and even other social workers understood is that adoptees can be really loved and well supported and still have complicated feelings about being adopted. Gratitude and grief [...]

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Through Both Lenses: Adoptee Social Worker Perspectives

AFTH Marketing — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:24:44 +0000

How has your experience as an adoptee shaped the way you approach your work with clients? Does it change how you advocate for open adoption? “My experience reminds me that adoption is lifelong, not a single event. I approach families with an awareness that the decisions made today will echo decades into the future. It absolutely [...]

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Through Both Lenses: Adoptee Social Worker Perspectives

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 17:11:02 +0000

Why did you choose to work for an adoption agency, and specifically AFTH? “I chose to work with AFTH because of our moral and ethical mission and values. Originally, I did not want to work with an adoption agency as I thought they all were there to profit off people… I saw [AFTH] was the intersectionality between an agency and [...]

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Through Both Lenses: Adoptee Social Worker Perspectives

AFTH Marketing — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 16:42:13 +0000

How do you think AFTH challenges many stereotypes and misconceptions people have about adoption agencies? “AFTH challenges the idea that adoption agencies are transactional or profit-driven by centering relationships and lived experience. Being founded by an adoptee and intentionally employing adoptees as social workers shifts the culture from just a “process” to true perspective. Decisions aren’t just policy-based; they’re informed by people who have lived adoption long after [...]

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Through Both Lenses: Adoptee Social Worker Perspectives

AFTH Marketing — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 20:44:10 +0000

Adoption agencies are often painted with a broad brush, seen as pro-life, pushing people toward adoption, or focused only on adoptive parents. But like in most situations, assumptions can be misleading, and the nuances of how agencies actually work can get lost. At Adoptions From The Heart, our goal isn’t to convince anyone of anything. [...]

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Why I chose to Intern for an Adoption Agency

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 19:56:01 +0000

The Beginning of the Internship Journey Finding an internship is the beginning of many students’ careers. School teaches us that internships further our education, beyond schoolbooks and lectures. Internships can help decide what you want your future to look like, providing you with experience and a place to apply what you’ve learned. When I [...]

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Books For Young Adoptees to Read During National Adoption Month

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 18:00:40 +0000

As we settle into National Adoption Month, Adoptions From The Heart (AFTH) aims to educate . This month honors and uplifts anyone touched by adoption in any way. Whether birth parent, adoptive parent, or adoptee, there is always more to learn. This piece focuses on resources for young adoptees to explore this month. For [...]

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Adoption News: November 2025

Kristy Galbraith — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 18:48:44 +0000

Download PDF | Articles Include: Honoring National Adoption Month A Second Chance Through Open Adoption The Eras of AFTH Give Back With Heart This Holiday Season Finding Joy Through Open Adoption Building Connections Through Play Finding Connection This Holiday Season A Mission Match Made With Heart Building Beautiful Families Calendar Stay Connected with AFTH In Every [...]

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Important Announcement for Clients Sending Gifts Through AFTH Offices

Kristy Galbraith — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 13:00:07 +0000

During the holiday season, AFTH receives gifts to forward along to members of the adoption triad. We ask for you to please include funds to cover the postage needed to repackage and send the gift from our office. To ensure enough time for mailing, please have packages delivered to our offices no later than Monday, December [...]

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You’re Not Alone: Kristen’s Open Adoption Journey and Message to Expecting Moms

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 14:30:54 +0000

Kristen is a birth mom from Pittsburgh, PA who had an unexpected pregnancy in 2017. Not knowing what approach to take she was worried about how to provide the best for her child. One day, Kristen’s father heard an ad on the radio for Adoptions From The Heart (AFTH). He came to Kristen's with information [...]

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A Second Chance Through Open Adoption: Alison’s Story

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 14:00:56 +0000

When Alison found out she was pregnant in 2016, she was in one of the darkest chapters of her life. Deep in the throes of addiction, she was overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty. As a mother already to her son Brady, born in 2011, she loved being a mom, but addiction had drained her strength [...]

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Honoring Joey Grego: A Legacy of Love, Courage, and Family

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 13:00:14 +0000

Today marks the anniversary of a legal victory that changed the lives of families across Pennsylvania and we pause in gratitude to remember two extraordinary individuals who made it possible. Joey and Jeff Grego were more than partners, they were steadfast, devoted adoptive parents who built their family through Adoptions From The Heart. Their journey [...]

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How to Cope the First Few Months After Placement

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 15:00:38 +0000

Even if you know that placing your child for adoption was the right decision, it doesn’t mean that you won't be upset. Even after knowing you picked the parents who will love and care for your baby and that you made the right decision, it can still be difficult. For many Birth Parents it's common [...]

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Adoption News: July 2025

Kristy Galbraith — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 21:07:50 +0000

Download PDF | Articles Include: Celebrating 40 years of Adoptions From The Heart Running With A Heart Michelle Cabrera Bags Summer Ed Series Roberta's Story Debbie: A Legal Advocate with a Heart for Adoption Coming Together, Growing Together: AFTH's Annual Picnic Post Placement Support That Made The Difference New OnDemand Webinars Stay Connected with AFTH [...]

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Christmas in July: Gift Card Drive

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 14:00:36 +0000

What is Christmas in July? Christmas in July is a GREAT way to show loved ones some support and sentiment as we wait for the holidays to return. Adoptions from the Heart (AFTH) is using this Christmas in July to support our birthmoms, but we need your help! AFTH is hosting a Gift Card Drive [...]

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You Are a Part of What Makes Us AFTH – Celebrate 40 Years & Help Us Make a Lasting Impact!

Kristy Galbraith — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 14:33:09 +0000

As Adoptions From The Heart celebrates 40 years of service, we want to take a moment to recognize you. Your story is woven into ours and we are deeply honored to have been part of your journey. As we look ahead to the next 40 years, we are reaching out to those who know us [...]

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What Sets AFTH Apart…

Kristy Galbraith — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 13:41:35 +0000

What Sets Us Apart… For 40 years, Adoptions From The Heart (AFTH) has had a foundation that has set it apart from other adoption agencies. Began by an adoptee in 1985, Maxine Chalker integrated her personal experience into her vision for the agency. AFTH's unique approach to adoption was shaped by centering the experiences of [...]

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2025’s Annual Family Picnics

AFTH Marketing — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 19:00:16 +0000

This year's Family Picnics were a blast! We are so grateful to the many AFTH families who joined us across the East Coast to celebrate adoption. We couldn't have done this without our community of AFTH families and the supporters we've gained along the way. Cheers to 40 years of Adoptions From The Heart!! Check [...]

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Brittany’s Story: Post-Placement Support That Made a Difference

Kristy Galbraith — Fri, 16 May 2025 15:06:04 +0000

After Brittany made the difficult decision to place her child for adoption, life became understandably overwhelming. It wasn’t just the emotional toll of the adoption process—it was also the physical and financial challenges that followed childbirth. As Brittany worked hard to prioritize her recovery and mental health, even basic daily needs felt like a heavy [...]

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Annual Family Picnics Through the Years

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 07 May 2025 15:00:47 +0000

Our annual Family Picnics are back! For 35 years, the Family Picnics have been a time for families to come together and celebrate adoption. AFTH will bring the snacks, arts & crafts, and more! All that our families have to do is show up for some fun! We will have five picnics in total throughout [...]

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The Journey of Infertility

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 14:00:45 +0000

This week is National Infertility Awareness Week! Adoptions From The Heart assists many adoptive families struggling with infertility when they turn to adoption. This blog focuses on raising awareness, highlighting the importance of spousal support, and advocating for access to care and coverage. What is Infertility? Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive a [...]

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AFTH Find Their Footing 5K/Walk & Festival Sponsors and Donors

AFTH Marketing — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 15:18:48 +0000

The AFTH Find Their Footing 5K/Walk & Festival is coming up, and we wanted to give a shout-out to all of our event sponsors and donors! We are so excited about the 9th Annual Find Their Footing 5K/Walk & Festival, which will be held next Saturday, April 26th, in Media (Rose Tree Park) from 8:00 [...]

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Spring Into The Season With Family Crafts

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 15:00:17 +0000

Spring is finally here! To kick it off, we have some family crafts we know you'll love. These crafts will get the whole family to sit around the table and spend some time together. Afterward, you can use your finished products as decorations around the house and send a few keepsakes to your child's birth [...]

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Meet Roberta Evantash

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 15:00:20 +0000

This is Roberta Evantash! Roberta worked as a social worker with Adoptions From The Heart since its founding in 1985. Roberta and AFTH Founder Maxine Chalker have been great friends since childhood. They met after becoming neighbors when they were about 12 years old. Maxine and Roberta even attended Temple University together, both majoring in [...]

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Adoption News: March 2025

Kristy Galbraith — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 15:24:31 +0000

Download PDF Articles Include: Celebrating 40 years of Adoptions From The Heart Happy National Social Work Month Spring Educational Series: Enrollment Now Open Welcoming New AFTH Staff Find Their Footing 5k Festival & Run Celebrating Generosity AFTH's Stance Triangle Time: Building Community & Connection Celebrating Stephanie Capriotti New OnDemand Webinars Terry and Jared's Adoption Journey: A [...]

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Upcoming Heart-to-Heart Fundraiser Highlighting Women in Adoption

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 15:52:58 +0000

On March 26th, Adoptions from the Heart is hosting our upcoming Heart-to-Heart Fundraiser highlighting women in adoption. Adoptions from the Heart has hosted many Heart-to-Heart fundraising events, with themes ranging from mental health awareness to LGBTQ+ adoption. This March, in honor of National Women’s Month, we are hosting a Heart-to-Heart with a group of wonderful [...]

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Social Worker to the Stars — Stephanie Capriotti

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 14:00:45 +0000

March is Social Work Month, during which we honor the social workers who make our mission possible. Social workers support our community in integral, everyday ways. Whether they are emotionally supporting an adoptive family or bringing a last-minute car seat to a birth mother in need, social workers are there for it all. Today, we're [...]

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Asking A Birth Mom

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 14:00:29 +0000

Expecting A Baby Se'Ayra Greene joins us in this heartfelt interview to share her journey as an expecting mom with Adoptions From The Heart (AFTH). We met Se'Ayra in 2016 when she and her spouse began exploring plans after a surprise pregnancy. Twenty-four weeks along, Se'Ayra found out she was pregnant. Their daughter was only [...]

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Announcing Spring Educational Series for Prospective Adoptive Parents!

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 14:06:36 +0000

Adoptions From the Heart (AFTH) is excited to be announcing our upcoming 2025 Spring Educational Series, with classes taking place in April and May. This series of courses is geared towards prospective adoptive parents. The classes will explore several topics relating to the adoption experience. The classes are held on ZOOM and are open to [...]

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Black Culture and Transracial Adoption

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 14:00:55 +0000

Black History Month has arrived and being fully educated on African American culture can be difficult. We at Adoptions From The Heart want to seize the opportunity to build on the cultural competency of our community. Specifically, our transracial adoptive parents raising or looking to raise a Black child. Addressing Questions & Differences Some [...]

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A Heartfelt Fundraising Event at Painting With a Twist

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 17:56:30 +0000

Adoptions From the Heart partnered with Painting With a Twist Media this past Saturday to bring people from the community a fun fundraising event for all. The event was created to bring those from the community, our clients, and families together for a great time and raising money for Adoptions From The Heart. The goal [...]

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Celebrating 40 Years of Adoptions From The Heart

AFTH Marketing — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 16:00:57 +0000

  Adoptions From The Heart celebrates 40 years of serving our community through personalized adoption processes. We are so grateful for each birth and adoptive parent who has trusted our private agency to be a part of their story. We look forward to another lifetime offering a helping hand to expecting and adoptive parents. Our [...]

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AFTH’s Stance

Kristy Galbraith — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 13:37:24 +0000

For those worried or scared about the new US policy reversals and changes, we want to assure you that Adoptions From The Heart will continue to stand behind our core values of C.H.O.I.C.E.S. Communication – Listen well, be clear, respectful and inspiring Honesty – Be truthful and sincere Opportunity – Opportunity for growth and development [...]

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Thinking About Adoption in 2025?

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 19:21:20 +0000

Thinking About Adoption? Are you thinking about adoption in 2025? It is important to learn as much as you can about the different types of adoptions and choose the best option for you. What is Open Adoption? Open adoption is the idea of an adoption triad, meaning that the birth parents, adoptive parents, and the [...]

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Reflecting on 2024’s Popular Blog Posts

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 16:00:00 +0000

As 2024 comes to a close, Adoptions From The Heart is taking a moment to reflect on a year of amazing stories and resources that have been published through our blog. The small, but mighty, marketing team worked hard to create blogs that stood out and have an impact on the adoption triad community. Here [...]

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How to Support Adoptions From The Heart This Holiday Season

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 25 Dec 2024 14:49:24 +0000

Tis the season of giving! The holiday season is a time for love, gratitude, and giving. It’s the perfect time of year to support meaningful causes, like Adoptions From The Heart (AFTH). This giving season, consider ways to donate to Adoptions From The Heart, an open adoption agency dedicated to supporting all members of the [...]

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Announcing Winter Educational Series for Prospective Adoptive Parents

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Adoptions From The Heart (AFTH) is excited to announce our upcoming 2025 Winter Educational Series. This series of courses, geared towards prospective adoptive parents, will explore several topics relating to the adoption experience. Held via ZOOM, these courses are open to all families in our service area (PA, NY, NJ, CT, DE, VA) and will fulfill [...]

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Celebrate the Season by Shopping Small: Adoptions From The Heart’s 2024 Holiday Gift Guide

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 17:40:20 +0000

The holiday season is meant to be surrounded by families but also this is the time to give back and support our local small businesses. Adoptions From The Heart is proud to share our 2024 Holiday Gift Guide, featuring some incredible businesses owned by members of the adoption community and generous sponsors who made this [...]

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Adoption Journey: Terry and Jared’s Story

AFTH Marketing — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 20:30:14 +0000

Terry and Jared always dreamed of becoming parents in their future. Adoption always seemed as though it was the best path to building their family. After receiving testimonials and feedback from friends who worked with Adoptions From The Heart (AFTH), the couple decided AFTH was the right agency for them to begin their adoption journey. [...]

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Holiday Season Tips for the Adoption Triad

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 14:00:22 +0000

The holiday season is a joyous time of year to gather with family and celebrate all to be thankful for. However, for members of the adoption triad, the holiday season can be emotionally draining. It is important to be with people who create a feeling of love and foster a sense of belonging. Below you [...]

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Adoption News: November 2024

Kristy Galbraith — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 13:05:04 +0000

Download PDF Articles Include: National Adoption Month Series: Meet Nicole Fowler Navigating the Unexpected Path to Open Adoption Celebrating AFTH First Annual Fall Fest Launch of Triangle Time in Wynnewood for Families with Young Children Celebrating 20 years with AFTH Annual Birth Parent Gift Card Drive Welcoming New AFTH Staff [...]

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Navigating The Unexpected: Morgan’s Path to Open Adoption

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:05:01 +0000

When Morgan stepped into the hospital, she found herself in labor, completely unaware she was pregnant. While faced with the decision to parent her son, Morgan found strength, guidance, and support from Adoptions From The Heart (AFTH), alongside the hospital staff. Her journey went from fear, uncertainty, and confusion to a place of hope and [...]

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Meet Cat- Giving an Adoptee Perspective- National Adoption Month Series

AFTH Marketing — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 20:16:40 +0000

November is National Adoption Month and we are highlighting members of the Adoption Triad. In this article, we would like to highlight an adoptee. Today, we had the pleasure to speak Cat Crossan, a 19 year old adoptee who is currently going to school for Nursing. This interview gave great insight as she dives into [...]

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Meet Nicole Fowler: National Adoption Month Series

AFTH Marketing — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 16:48:26 +0000

This week, our public relations intern sat down with Nicole Fowler, Adoptions From The Heart’s Director of Social Services. Fowler takes on many roles with AFTH, and in her personal life, she is also a foster mother. Below is a look at the Q-&-A style conversation that begins our National Adoption Month blog series. [...]

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Important Announcement For Clients Sending Gifts Through AFTH Offices

Kristy Galbraith — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 13:00:56 +0000

During the holiday season, AFTH receives gifts to forward along to members of the adoption triad. When doing this, we request that adoptive families include funds to cover the postage to repackage and send the gift from our office to their child’s birth family. In order to ensure enough time with the recent delay in mail, [...]

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Coming Up: Events From AFTH

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 18:07:17 +0000

Though the year is coming to a close, Adoptions From The Heart has a busy schedule planned. Read below to find out what’s going on and sign up for an event that interests you! AFTH has a lot on our agenda. Events include a Fall Fest, Giving Tuesday, and Heart-to-Heart! National Adoption Month [...]

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Navigating the Adoption Journey: Understanding Adoption Therapy

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 15:38:40 +0000

Adoption is a lifelong journey that deeply impacts all members of the adoption triad—adoptees, adoptive parents, and birth parents—in unique ways. At Adoptions From The Heart, we recognize the complexities involved and are committed to providing specialized therapeutic services to support everyone experiencing adoption. What Is Adoption Therapy? Adoption therapy is a specialized form of [...]

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Maxine Chalker: A Trailblazer in Adoption

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 13:59:01 +0000

For almost forty years, Adoptions From The Heart (AFTH) has been dedicated to changing the face of adoption, in hopes of better serving the needs of women, children, and families. The woman behind this mission is Maxine Chalker, LSW/MSW. Chalker has personal ties to adoption, as she herself is an adoptee. Not knowing much about [...]

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Adoptions From The Heart Fall Fest

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 20:27:06 +0000

Adoptions From The Heart is excited to announce our first ever Fall Fest event located at Rose Tree Park in Media, PA on Sunday November 3rd. Admission is free and invites all families within the community, clients, and those who want to support a great cause. The event will be from 11am-4pm. Proceeds from this [...]

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Adoptions From The Heart Launches Partnership with Local Non-Profit Thrift Shop

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 13:55:03 +0000

Heart & Soul'd Owners, Kristen and Terry Adoptions From The Heart is excited to announce that we have been selected as Heart & Soul 'd's newest mission match. This important partnership allows AFTH to continue collaborations with adoptive parents, as both owners of Heart & Soul’d completed their families through adoption with AFTH. [...]

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Child Protective Services and Adoption

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 16:00:32 +0000

This article was written by Christopher Peszka, MSW/LSW, AFTH's District Supervisor. There are occasions when private licensed adoption agencies and public child protection service (CPS) agencies are both involved in working with expectant and birth parents who are considering adoption. There could be several reasons for both private and public agency involvement. Some expecting and [...]

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AFTH Celebrates NY Families at The NY Family Picnic

AFTH Marketing — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 14:31:48 +0000

On August 24th 2024, Adoptions From The Heart held the NY Family Picnic. In fact, since Covid-19 we've put a pause on the event and this was the first NY Family Picnic since 2 years. The event took place at Billy Johnson Playground located in Central Park. About 30 people including staff, consultants, and families [...]

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Supporting a Friend Experiencing an Unplanned Pregnancy

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 04:00:43 +0000

An unplanned pregnancy can be scary and overwhelming. It can feel like your entire life is going off track, and the choices you are faced with can feel impossible to make. As a friend of someone experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, it can be hard to know how to support them. What do you say? How [...]

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Heart-to-Heart Event Focuses on LGBTQIA+ Couples

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 15:35:08 +0000

On August 1st, Adoptions From The Heart hosted its Heart-to-Heart virtual event that focused on LGBTQIA+ families and adoption. The Heart-to-Heart events create an open and honest conversation that focus on members of the adoption community who may otherwise be underrepresented. The conversation took place over a Zoom meeting attended by about 30 waiting and [...]

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Adoption News: August 2024

Kristy Galbraith — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 12:40:46 +0000

Download PDF Articles Include: Non-Newborn Adoptions Announcing New Adoption-Competent Therapy Services for CT Residents Letter from AFTH's Executive Director Keyur: AFTH's Fall Scholarship Recipient In Loving Memory of Marilyn Rich Highlighting AFTH's Financial Director Upcoming Ed Series Classes - Registration Open AFTH Summer Picnic Recap Importance of Professional Training and [...]

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AFTH’s Birth Parent Scholarship- Keyur’s Journey

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 04:00:36 +0000

Every semester, Adoptions From The Heart awards a scholarship to birth parents who are pursuing a degree in higher education. Since the fund started in 2014, AFTH has awarded over 27 scholarships. This semester, AFTH selected birth father Keyur Adhyapak to receive the scholarship for a second semester. This award will help him build on last semester [...]

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Spotlight on AFTH Interns: Celebrating National Internship Day!

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 18:43:26 +0000

July 25th is National Internship Day, and Adoptions From The Heart is celebrating by showcasing its interns and what they do for AFTH. Nowadays, one of the more important aspects of a postgraduate resume is internships. They’re important for gaining experience and establishing what you want to do for your future career. Each semester and [...]

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Christmas In July: Gift Card Drive

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 16:21:26 +0000

Christmas is always a special time for a child, when it comes to opening new gifts under the tree. In reality, Christmas can also be a hard financial burden for those who are already struggling. There are many birth parents who are struggling to support themselves and the children they are raising. Every year at [...]

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August Heart-to-Heart Event Focuses on LGBTQIA Families

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 05:00:32 +0000

Adoptions From The Heart is hosting its second Heart-to-Heart virtual event of the year on August 1, 2024. This conversation will focus on members of the LGBTQIA community and share their adoption experiences. The event will be held on Zoom and begin at 7 p.m. est. AFTH is proud to be welcoming to families from [...]

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AFTH Launches New Adoption Therapy Center

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 16:32:10 +0000

Adoptions From The Heart has launched it's new therapy center, servicing all members of the adoption triad in Connecticut. Julia Ruggiero, LCSW is an adoption therapist and adoptee working with AFTH to offer clients adoption-competent therapy. In this post, Julia shares how adoption-competent therapy can help members of the adoption triad and the services that [...]

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AFTH Podcast Shares Resources to Support LGBTQ+ Youth

AFTH Marketing — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 14:11:11 +0000

AFTH’s most recent Adoptions & Beyond Podcast educates listeners on how to support LGBTQ+ youth. Phii Regis from the Human Rights Campaign joins AFTH’s Nicole and Kristy to discuss resources that can help affirm gender identities. This podcast comes at a time of increases in discriminatory legislation aimed at transgender and gender non-conforming youth. 54% [...]

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Heart-to-Heart LGBTQIA Families Event- Know Before You Go

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 16:00:41 +0000

Did you know that according to the William Institute "Same-sex couples raising children are four times more likely to than their different sex counterparts to be raising an adopted child." We find that more LGBTQIA families are choosing adoption as a beautiful way to start their families. It is so vital and important to highlight [...]

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AFTH Celebrates Open Adoption at 34th Annual Family Picnic

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 18:40:42 +0000

Adoptions From The Heart staff and families enjoyed a day at the park this past Sunday to celebrate open adoption. AFTH hosted the 34th annual Family Picnic for families from Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. Some staff and family traveled over state lines to attend the event. Overall, more than 225 people attended the days [...]

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AFTH New Jersey Office: New Location

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 20:42:37 +0000

We have some exciting news happening this month. The Adoptions From The Heart New Jersey office is moving to NEW LOCATION! If the last office location was convenient to you, do not worry, the new office is less than a mile away from the old location. Our phone number will continue to be the same, [...]

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Adoptions From The Heart Family Picnics

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 15 May 2024 16:00:44 +0000

We are excited to bring back our summer picnics! The Adoptions From The Heart Summer Picnics are back this year with the opportunity for families to come together in celebration of adoption. We encourage waiting families to attend the family picnics. If you are a placed family and inviting your child's birth family, please send [...]

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Considering Birth Mothers on Mother’s Day

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 08 May 2024 18:08:55 +0000

As most people are aware, Mother’s Day is this upcoming Sunday. Many people are undoubtedly preparing to give their mothers the best possible day. After all, the holiday is meant to celebrate all that mothers do for their children. During this holiday, though, it is important to consider the feelings of birth mothers.

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2024 Find Their Footing Mile Walk Event Recap

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 01 May 2024 18:15:40 +0000

Our Find Their Footing Mile Walk event was a great event that brought families together to walk for a great cause. This year we decided to switch things up and instead of doing our 5k we decided to do a mile walk. We also decided to have different pop up locations so that families from [...]

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Considering Adoption During National Infertility Awareness Week

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 18:27:39 +0000

April 21-27 is National Infertility Awareness Week. This week is all about making people aware of infertility, supporting those who have experienced it and educating others about the topic. This year, AFTH wants to take time to highlight a story of infertility within the adoption community and how open adoption ended up playing a part in the family’s story.

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Adoptions From The Heart Board Member Highlights

Kristy Galbraith — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 20:17:17 +0000

We are proud to introduce the esteemed members of AFTH's board, each bringing a wealth of experience and passion to our cause. Together, this dynamic board stands united in our commitment to empower and uplift those we serve. Maxine Chalker President Adoptee Maxine is the founder and president of [...]

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The Child of an Adoptee on Open Adoption

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 18:20:56 +0000

My mom has always been incredibly open with me about adoption. When I really stop and think about it, I have quite a few family members who were adopted.

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Getting Involved With Adoptions From The Heart

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 12:00:33 +0000

At Adoptions From The Heart, we offer valuable services such as counseling, mediation, and educational resources to support both sets of parents in their respective roles and journeys. We also like to include members of the triad whenever possible. Life's best lessons are learned through experience. Life's best lessons are taught from experience. Staying connected [...]

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Spotlight: Birth Mom Mary Kiker

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 18:59:31 +0000

The connections AFTH has made go beyond just people the agency has hired or parents it has helped. There is actually a large amount of overlap between these groups. Many people who collaborate with AFTH frequently are parts of the adoption triad. One prime example is Mary Kiker, a birth mom who placed her daughter through AFTH and frequently works with the agency on different events and classes.

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How AFTH’s Open-Adoption Social Workers Differ from Traditional Social Workers

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 12:10:31 +0000

Open-adoption social workers play a unique and vital role in the social work field. Unlike traditional social workers who focus on child welfare or family services, our open-adoption social workers specialize in facilitating options counseling sessions, assisting in the placement process (paperwork, home studies, etc.), educating prospective parents, being there in support of expecting and [...]

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Recap: Transracial Adoption Voices Heart-to-Heart Recap

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 19:35:49 +0000

AFTH’s latest Heart-to-Heart event took place on Feb. 22. The virtual event was hosted by AFTH’s own Amanda Aliberti. The purpose of the Heart-to-Heart webinar was to spotlight different transracial voices of adoption. Three birth parents and one adoptee spoke about their experiences with transracial adoption, going over the highs and lows of the process. The panel included birth moms Se’Ayra and Sharmaine, birth father Samai and adoptee Christian.

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Adoption News: March 2024

Kristy Galbraith — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 16:17:31 +0000

Download PDF Articles Include: Considering a Non-Infant Adoption Placement National Social Work Month Talking to Your Child about Adoption & Keeping Open Adoption Promises Benefit of Adoptive Families Working with a Doula Spring Ed Series - registration open Adoption & Beyond Podcast Revamp & AFTHtv Season 15 New AFTH Support Groups Added: Single Adoptive Parents & [...]

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Social Workers’ Insight on Older Children Adoption

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 19:00:23 +0000

A myth associated with adoption is that only newborns are placed with families, but this is far from the truth. AFTH social workers Christian and Isatou emphasize that older children can also be placed by their birth parents.

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Transracial Adoption Education and Resources

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 20:03:45 +0000

Navigating transracial adoption can be challenging. Some may simply not know where to start, how to become informed or even what there is to know. Whether you are considering transracial adoption, have experience with it or simply want to learn more, there are plenty of educational resources available.

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The Benefit of Adoptive Families Working With A Doula

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 17:09:28 +0000

At Adoptions From The Heart, we take pride in the wrap-around support and in-depth education we provide to everyone who enters our offices. This extends even further than the services we provide to families through our agency, consisting of relationships with professionals outside of open adoption that help make our clients lives easier in their [...]

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Transracial Adoption: Know the Basics Before the Event

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 19:20:52 +0000

Adoption is a complex subject. There are many areas of adoption some people just do not know how to navigate. One of these areas is transracial adoption, which involves a family adopting a child of a different race. Many are either unfamiliar with the realities of transracial adoption or why it is important to discuss. [...]

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Importance of Keeping Your Open Adoption Promises

AFTH Marketing — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 18:19:55 +0000

The following article is a candid and transparent article from a social worker’s perspective of seeing the pain one of their clients goes through when the adoptive parents refuse to follow through on their open adoption promises. Above, we have included some of the excuses we have heard from adoptive parents over the years as [...]

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How Birth Fathers Can Be Involved with Open Adoption

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 14:23:21 +0000

It is well known that adoption can be an intense and even life-changing process for birth mothers. Much of the process seems to center around the birth mother by making sure she is supported and given the best possible treatment while choosing a family for her baby. Because of this, it is sometimes easy to [...]

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Embracing New Beginnings: AFTH Spring 2024 Scholarship Recipients Announced!

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 15:41:41 +0000

In a celebration of hope and opportunity, AFTH is thrilled to announce the recipients of its Spring 2024 scholarships. AFTH has long been committed to providing support and opportunities for all members of the adoption triad. The Spring 2024 scholarship program is a testament to this dedication, aiming to empower [...]

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Transracial Adoption | Join The Conversation at Next Month’s Heart To Heart

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 14:35:28 +0000

In the past, our Heart to Heart with Adoptions From The Heart virtual events have been super successful in spreading adoption education and awareness. These panels have offered invaluable insight and perspective from actual members of the adoption community and professionals who work with them daily. These panels not only provided a platform for adoptees, [...]

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3 New Year’s Resolutions for Adoptive Parents

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 17:03:26 +0000

The new year is often seen as an opportunity for personal growth and positive change. For adoptive parents, this sentiment extends to their role as caregivers. Raising an adoptee comes with its unique challenges and joys, and setting New Year's resolutions can be a meaningful way to strengthen the bond with your child while providing [...]

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Spreading Love: Year-End Giving with Gift Cards for Birth Parents

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 16:25:39 +0000

“I just want to say thank you so much. I was starting to lose hope in Christmas because I kept getting hit with more and more obstacles. I checked my email from you guys, and I started crying happy tears. I appreciate this organization so much. You guys go above and beyond for us, when [...]

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Expanding Love: Adopting a Second Child After Having a Biological One

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 14:00:55 +0000

For some families, the journey doesn't end with biological parenthood; it extends further into the realm of adoption. When parents who have a biological child choose adopting a second child, they embark on a unique path filled with both challenges and immeasurable joy. Navigating Emotions The decision to adopt a second child after having a [...]

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Adoption News: December 2023

Heidi Gonzalez — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 15:04:33 +0000

Download PDF Articles Include: A Sit Down with ChristianaCare Hospital Message to AFTH supporters National Adoption Month Fundraising Events Sponsor shoutout: Your Adoption Finance Coach Renita Russells Story Winter Ed Series Services for Expecting and Birth Parents Heart to Heart with Complete adoption triad Journey to Self Discovery as an International Adoptee In Every Issue: Agency News, [...]

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Heart-to-Heart with The Adoption Triad

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 14:00:15 +0000

To kick off National Adoption Month, we hosted our third virtual Heart-to-Heart event of the year! The focus of this event was The Adoption Triad, and we were lucky enough to be joined by three complete triads willing to share their stories with our audience. Our first triad’s presenters were the birth mom, Michelle, adoptee [...]

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Hard Holiday Season for the Adoption Triad

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 14:00:05 +0000

The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration. For many, it's a time filled with cherished traditions, delicious meals, and the warmth of family gatherings. However, for individuals connected to the adoption triad—the adoptee, birth parents, and adoptive parents—the holiday season can be a complex and emotionally challenging time. [...]

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Voices of Adoption: Adoption Counselor Christian

AFTH Marketing — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 15:00:01 +0000

Christian 's adoption has been a journey of discovery, acceptance, and healing that has shaped his identity in profound ways. Five years into the reunion with his birth family, he has experienced highs and lows, finding joy and a sense of belonging in this intricate web of relationships. The acceptance of his feelings surrounding his [...]

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Thriving Together: Adopting Older Children

AFTH Marketing — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 14:00:25 +0000

Adopting older children comes with its own set of challenges, but with the right approach and support, it can be a rewarding experience for both the child and the parent. Understanding the unique difficulties these children may face and providing them with the necessary tools and guidance can make a significant difference in their lives. [...]

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Voices of Adoption: Maxine Chalker

AFTH Marketing — Sun, 19 Nov 2023 15:00:22 +0000

Today is Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, and Maxine Chalker, Founder and President of Adoptions From The Heart tells us about her journey as an adoptee entrepreneur. The Adoption Journey to Entrepreneurship Maxine's journey from adoption to entrepreneurship is truly inspiring. As an adoptee, her adoption experience played a pivotal role in shaping her path. It fueled her [...]

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