We Are Here for You

FTIA has been privileged to have placed more than 2,000 children into your homes and families.  These children have come from seven different countries.  Common sense tells us that some of these children and families have struggled - and some of you are probably still struggling.  We have learned over the years that when adoptive families are struggling sometimes/often times adoptive families are hesitant to seek help.  There are several reasons for hesitation: resistance to counseling or outside help; feelings of “I told everyone about the adoption and now I can’t admit I’m struggling, what will people think”;  “I’ve parented other children and not had this difficult time, I will figure this out”; plus untold numbers of other feelings.  Whatever the feeling, FTIA is here for you.

The reality is that raising children is a tough job - a great job, but still tough.  All parents at one time or another could use help because there are so many issues children go through as they grow up and we as parents don’t have all the answers.  Raising adopted children adds more issues to the mix for your child(ren) and, therefore, for you as a parent.  Most of us will try to parent our children similar to how our parents parented us; that is our concept of parenting.  But, if your child has a different temperament than you and/or has medical/emotional issues, your child may need different parenting techniques.  The idea of, “That is how I was taught and that is how you will learn” isn’t a great parenting strategy.

What I am trying to say is that if you are struggling, it is ok.  And the sooner you seek assistance, the better.  Please never, never hesitate to call FTIA and let us know you need help.  We never judge our adoptive parents - we are here to help.  In fact, we applaud anyone who is willing to say, “I need help,” because that says to us, “I love my child enough to get help - it’s not about me and my pride, it’s about my child.”  Whether you just need to talk with someone or if you need us to help locate a local service provider - call us.  There are often inexpensive resources if finances are a concern.

No, not everyone needs to seek outside assistance, but I believe many more of us could become even better parents if we would take the time.  And, if not now, maybe later.

Respectfully submitted,

Keith M. Wallace

CEO & Executive Director

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