We will work with you to provide services for several types of adoption including:

 

Domestic Infant Adoption, Kinship Placements, Designated Placements, Special Needs Adoption, and other contract services such as home studies and post placement only services when you are working with another placing agency.

Costs vary based on your type of adoption. For those utilizing our placement services, we do offer a sliding fee scale. Payment is non-refundable and payments are billed at times of service. Fees may include application fees, home study, pre-placement, placement, and post-placement support. Some costs are not covered in agency fees including fingerprinting, physical examination, any extra required assessments, attorney fees, etc.

There are many organizations willing to help with financial costs of adoption. Visit our Adoption Resources page to learn more!

 

An adoption plan can be customized into three categories based on your post-placement communication plan. These are often called: open, semi-open, or closed adoptions.

 

An open adoption is one in which the expectant parent(s) choose the prospective adoptive parent(s). Identifying information is shared between both parties. All parties meet and are free to establish the boundaries of the relationship that is most comfortable for all concerned. This type of adoption often consists of direct sharing of updates and pictures throughout your child’s life. Visits may also be involved.

 

In a semi-open adoption, the expectant parent(s) may choose the prospective adoptive parents. The two families may decide to meet at the agency to agree on an adoption plan. Last names, addresses, and other identifying information remain confidential. This type of adoption generally includes ongoing sharing of letters and pictures through the agency.

Please note: Post-Adoption Communication Agreements are made in good faith and are not legally enforceable in South Dakota.

 

In a closed adoption, the agency determines the adoptive parents. The parties involved have no direct contact and no ongoing communication – all information remains confidential.

 

 

Your adoption journey does not end after finalization. We can work with you as long as you need us. We can provide post-placement support, help facilitate your post-adoption communication plan, offer support groups, recommend classes, and help you find resources as you and your family grow.