Imagine this: A child learning for the first time that it's perfectly acceptable - even welcome - to laugh at the dinner table, do homework at the desk, help with the dishes. If you have an abundance of love to give such a child, and the safety and security of a permanent, nurturing home, you could have the experience of being an adoptive parent - with unimaginable rewards.

Families, couples and single people have many different reasons for wanting to adopt a child, from the desire to expand their family, to the wish to nurture a child who cannot be raised by his or her birth parents. Regardless of the motivation, those who can offer the love and stability a vulnerable child needs will not only help that child heal from the wounds of a traumatic past and build a more hopeful future.

Children's Aid and Family Services has been helping children who don't have families able to care for them for over 110 years.

We've placed more than 10,000 infants and children with loving adoptive families and have many opportunities for you to open your home and heart to a vulnerable child. The agency is uniquely qualified to guide you every step of the way, helping you navigate this new terrain by providing comprehensive support and guidance. A staff member is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week -- an especially reassuring fact if you are adopting a child with behavioral or learning issues.

If you're thinking "What is the next step to find out more about adoption?," here are some suggestions: