There are thousands of children in Texas awaiting permanent homes.  Many of these children have been abused, neglected or abandoned.  Over 65% of these children are children of color.  CFI focuses special attention on recruiting and preparing African American families to adopt, because African American children wait the longest for a permanent home.  An adoptive home can provide the love and stability these children need to mature and become productive citizens. 

• Orientation - Provide general information about the adoption process.
  
• Group Preparation - Training designed to help prospective parents assess their readiness to adopt and learn new parenting skills.
  
• Home Study - A family profile process, which includes individual and family interviews, verification of personal references and a criminal check.
  
• Selection Process - A search begins for the child you have requested.  You decide whether a child is right for your family.
  
• Presentation - Information regarding the child's background (medical, psychological & social history and school records) is presented to you.
  
• Pre-placement - If you decide you can parent a child, pre-placement visits will be scheduled.  Visits may vary depending on the child's age and needs.
  
• Supervisory Period - A six-month period during which the child lives in your home.  Monthly contacts are made by a Social Worker to help you with your adjustment needs.
  
• Finalization - You select an attorney and file a petition to adopt.  The Social Worker may assist a family in obtaining an attorney.  The Judge finalizes the adoption.  A new birth certificate with your last name is issued for the child.  Congratulations, you are a new parent!
  
• Post-Adoption Services - Support services provided to your family after the adoption is finalized.