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ADOPTION SERVICES
AN INDIVIDUALIZED, FAMILY-CENTERED APPROACH
Since 1980, Catholic Human Services has been honored to support birth parents and adoptive families through the life-changing journey of adoption. As one of the earliest pioneers of open adoption in the United States, CHS has led the way nationally in promoting lifelong connections between adopted children and their birth families. We’re proud to have helped facilitate nearly 600 infant adoptions across Northern Michigan.
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What is Open Adoption?
Open adoption encourages ongoing, respectful relationships between birth parents, adoptive families, and the adopted child. This approach supports identity, connection, and lifelong well-being—and has been the heart of our work for over four decades.
FOR BIRTH PARENTS
If you’re pregnant and considering adoption, CHS is here to walk with you—without pressure, with compassion, and at your pace. You can count on us to:
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Offer non-judgmental, options-based counseling to help you explore what’s best for you and your baby.
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Answer your questions honestly and support your concerns.
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Respect and uphold your choices throughout the process.
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Ensure you fully understand your rights and all aspects of adoption before making any decisions.
FOR PROSPECTIVE ADOPTIVE PARENTS
If you’re hoping to provide a loving, permanent home for a child, our team will guide you every step of the way. You can expect us to:
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Welcome you warmly and answer your questions with care.
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Provide a thorough understanding of our open adoption program.
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Be transparent about timelines, costs, and requirements.
LET'S TALK
Whether you're exploring adoption as a birth parent or hopeful adoptive parent, we’re here to help.
FAQS FOR BIRTH PARENTS
Are the services for birth parents at CHS free?
Yes. There are no fees or costs at any time.
Can CHS help with ongoing expenses during the pregnancy?
Yes. We'll assess your financial situation to help you cover basic medical costs, clothing, and housing. All financial support goes through the agency. No money changes hands between adoptive and birth families.
Do I have to be Catholic?
No, we provide services to all regardless of faith.
How much control do I have in an adoption plan?
You are in control every step of the way. Our job is to support and guide you to follow your plan for yourself and your child. You are welcome to meet as many families in our pool as you want before you make a selection. You decide who will attend the birth. You determine the level of openness that's right for you. You will choose how often to visit and work out with the adoptive family, exchanging emails, phone calls, and pictures in advance.
If I choose adoption, does it have to be open?
No. Your privacy is always respected. We hope that you will want to stay in touch after you meet your selected adoptive family. We believe that it's important for adopted children to have the knowledge and a sense of their birth heritage whenever possible.
Can I receive services from CHS even if I might not choose adoption?
Yes. Dealing with an unplanned pregnancy can be complex and confusing. We're here to help you sort out your situation and support you in whatever direction you decide.
How much will I know about the adoptive family?
Every waiting family creates a portfolio full of pictures and detailed information so that you can get a feeling for them before you meet. We will also provide you the family's home study report that details their family backgrounds, careers, interests, etc.
What "qualifications" must an adoptive couple meet before they are accepted?
Every family goes through an educational process and a home study. The home study is conducted in their home and considers their motivation, marriage, the family of origin, thoughts on raising children, and their ideas about adoption.
Where do the adoptive families live?
Adoptive families live right here in northern Michigan. We feel that open adoption relationships can work best when adoptive and birth families don't have to travel great distances to see each other.
Can the birth father be involved?
Yes. Information about both birth parents will be important. Birth parents being involved and working together as a team can be very positive for the child if the situation is right and birth parents agree.
Will I be able to see my baby in the hospital?
Absolutely! We hope you will spend lots of time with your baby, and it's vital for you to greet your child and celebrate their arrival.
Will I have to go to court?
Yes. The judge is your protector and will make sure everything is done correctly.
What if I change my mind?
It's crucial for you to understand how this works. The temporary papers signed in the hospital are easily set aside. You are entirely free to change course before signing documents in court (about four weeks following birth). Your baby would be returned to you. However, once you sign the consent papers in court, your parental rights will be terminated. By law, you would have 21 days to appeal.
OPEN ADOPTION AND CRISIS PREGNANCY
FREE, CONFIDENTIAL, AND FULLY SUPPORTIVE.
If you’re experiencing an unplanned or unexpected pregnancy, you may feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or even scared. You’re not alone—and CHS is here for you.
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Our experienced counselors offer free, confidential pregnancy counseling to help you explore your options and create a plan that’s right for you and your baby.
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We will:
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Listen to your concerns with honesty and care
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Connect you to community resources and support
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Respect your choices and emotions
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If you plan to parent, help build a support network
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If you are considering adoption, provide clear guidance and ensure your wishes are honored every step of the way
Contact us to speak with someone today. A member of our team will reach out to you. Click here to learn more about becoming a client of Catholic Human Services.