[[Category: Adoption Angels Project]][[Category:Adoption Resources]] ---- '''Please note: This page is for members of WikiTree who were adopted. If you need information for nonliving relatives who were adopted or historical adoption cases, please see this help page: [[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Historical_Adoption|Historical Adoption]].''' ---- ==What Name Should I Use?== There are several choices you could go with when adding your name to your personal profile. It partly depends on whether you know your name at birth or not. It also depends what you want others to see when they come to your profile. All of the following options are acceptable options: :LNAB=Last Name at Birth :CLN=Current Last Name :OLN=Other Last Names *Use your adopted last name as your LNAB *Use your known birth last name as your LNAB *Use your known birth last name as your LNAB and put your adopted last name in the CLN *Use the word Unknown as your LNAB until you find your birth parents. Then change the LNAB to your known birth name. Use your Adopted last name or married last name as CLN. *For married people you can add your married last name in the CLN or OLN name field if you wish. ==What Privacy Level Should I Use?== This depends on how much you want others to see about you. Do you want to add items to your biography such as the [[Template:Adopted_Child|Adoptee Template]] that others can see? Do you have DNA information to share? Please see [[Help:Privacy|the Help Page for Privacy]] for more information on privacy levels and what they do/do not show. You can also click the "profile (public view)" tab on your personal profile to see what others are able to view on your profile. '''To change your privacy level, click the privacy tab on your profile. Be sure to click save after making a change.''' ===Lower Privacy Level=== Yellow is the lowest privacy level for living people (''Private with Public Biography and Family Tree''). Many WikiTree members have this level. See [[McBeth-165|Emma MacBeath]] for an example of what yellow privacy shows. :'''Biography is viewable''' :'''Family tree is viewable''' :'''DNA test information is viewable''' :'''Preferred given name and surname is viewable''' If you want these things to be viewable, but want a little more privacy, you can leave the exact birth date (use just the year) and birth place off of your personal information. You can also use a first initial instead of your full first name. Even at this lower privacy level, any profiles attached to yours that are at a higher privacy level will show only as some form of: "Private Son 1990s-unknown" ===Mid Privacy Level=== Peach and Orange are mid privacy levels. These are very similar to each other, but different items are publicly viewable for each level as follows: Peach ("Private with Public Family Tree") :'''DNA test information is viewable''' :Biography is not viewable :'''Family Tree is viewable''' :'''Preferred given name and surname is viewable''' Orange ("Private with Public Biography") :DNA test information is not viewable :'''Biography is viewable''' :Family Tree is not viewable :'''Preferred given name and surname is viewable''' ===High Privacy Level=== Red is the highest privacy level ("Private"). The only thing that will show on this privacy level is an abbreviated version of your name and birth year (such as 1990s). Public comment posts will also be viewable. *Choose the privacy level that you are most comfortable with. However, keep in mind, if you would like help from others, they will need to be able to see certain portions of your profile such as your name, DNA test information and possibly your biography. You can change your privacy level at any time. ==How to Add DNA Test Information== *Go to the Add+ tab at the top of your screen and choose DNA Test Information. Then use the drop down menu to choose the test you took. Enter the test information asked for in the boxes. You will need to repeat this for each separate test. (Note: No Raw DNA is uploaded or stored at WikiTree. DNA test information is used as a comparison tool only). *Be sure to enter your Gedmatch number for at least one test. If you have not uploaded your Raw DNA to Gedmatch it is highly, highly recommended you do so. Please see [[Space:DNA_Basics_for_Adoptees|DNA Basics for Adoptees]] for information on how and why you should use Gedmatch. It is a free website. ==What Should I Add to My Biography?== This is completely up to you. Do you want to add public information that could help in your search? Do you want to remain private and search without others knowing? If you wish to add viewable information, it is recommended you use the Adopted Child template mentioned above as a starting point. Feel free to add basic information about your birth and/or adoption that may aid in your search as well as information about your adopted family. ==What if I Want to Have a Biological Family Tree AND an Adopted Family Tree?== You can do this! And here is how it can be done: #First, you must have family members to add to both trees. #Before proceeding, decide whether you want your main profile page to represent your biological family or your adopted family. This is your choice. However, if you choose your adopted family, be aware that when others compare relationships with you using the Relationship Finder, they will receive false information. You also need to be clear in your biography which family is represented on your main profile. #It is useful to add the [[Template:Adopted_Child|Adopted Child Template]] to your biography to name both your biological family and your adopted family and to use as a link to the separate tree. #Create a second profile for yourself. This is usually not allowed, but an exception is made for adoptees creating two separate trees. There are three ways to create a duplicate profile. *Go to the Add+ tab at the top of your screen and click on New Person. Create a profile of yourself using the name not currently on your main profile (if your main profile uses your biological birth name as the Last Name at Birth, create the new profile using your adopted name). This type of profile is NOT an active user profile. Make sure to mark the death date as "about/uncertain but non-living" or your profile will not be visible to anyone but you. *Use the same instructions for the above, but when creating the profile, add an email address in that field. This will need to be a second email address since you cannot have two profiles using the same email address. You will be sending yourself an invitation to manage the profile. Once you have accepted, you will need to sign the honor code in order to begin adding family. This profile will be an active user. *A Final method is to create a second profile from scratch. Again, you must register using a different email address and a different name. With this method, you will need to go through the volunteer process again (add tags and upgrade your membership) before you can begin adding family. '''This profile will be an active user, however you must choose which of your two accounts will be the one you always work from. You can't work from two different accounts on WikiTree. This is against the terms of service.''' Regardless of which method you choose you need to do a couple of things so others know you are an adoptee with a second profile. #Add links on your main profile and your second profile linking them to each other. This is done by using the Wiki ID link brackets: [[WikiTree ID|Name]]. You can also add the same type of links using the Adopted Child template, but this links to the parents rather than your personal profile. #Be transparent and state your purpose for having a second profile. A sentence or two is all you need. You can add your link to the other profile in this explanation. #Created a rejected match between your main profile and your second profile to prevent future merge proposals. This can be done by going to the bottom right of one profile and clicking on the Reject a Match link. ==My Profile is Ready. What's Next?== *Read the [[Space:Adoption_Angels_Basic_Search_Help|The Basic Search Help Page]] written for adoptees to make sure you have completed all the steps needed to increase success in your search. *Complete an [https://www.wikitree.com/contact/adoption/ Adoption Angel Request form] if you are looking for help with your search. *Read about [[Space:DNA_Basics_for_Adoptees|DNA Basics for Adoptees]]

[[Category: Australia Adoption Resources]][[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) *[https://forcedadoptions.naa.gov.au/records Forced adoptions information page at the National Archives of Australia Website] ==Additional Local Resources== *[https://www.benevolent.org.au/services-and-programs/post-adoption-services Benevolent Society website] *[https://adoptalife.com.au/research/resources/ adoptalife.com.au resources nationally and state specific lists] *[https://www.facebook.com/groups/11911568162/?ref=br_rs Adoption in Australia Facebook Group] ==Privacy Laws== ==WikiTree Project== ==Local Information== *Official Languages: English *Currency: AUD - Australian Dollar ---- * [https://www.facs.nsw.gov.au/families/adoption/finding-info/adoptions-before-2010-over-18 New South Wales Government - Applying for adoption information] * [https://www.australiandnahub.org.au/ Australian DNA Hub - DNA Genealogy for Adoptees] * [https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/search?adv=y Trove] is probably the most useful site. It has most Australian newspapers fully digitized and searchable up to the 1950s (in some cases later than that.) * Ryerson index for mostly the state of NSW. This covers many newspaper death notices after 1950. You can request a picture of the full notice from a volunteer. *Note: Privacy laws restrict much information for people on the BDM indexes (deaths before 1990, births before 1920, marriages before 1970). * A general list of resources can be found [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Category:Australia%2C_Genealogy_Resources here] as recommended by the Australia Project.

'''''This procedure applies to any Angel who works with an applicant to discover birth family or build a tree.''''' ---- *'''For Researchers who are only building family trees for applicants, please add this information to the notes section of the spreadsheet for the applicant:''' Please add which part of the tree you built out for the applicant (maternal, paternal, or both) and how far you were able to go (such as 2nd great grandparents). And please make a note that the tree is finished so it can be moved to the completed tab. *'''For Researchers and Family Finders searching for family, when you have completed a search to the satisfaction of the applicant, please message Emma directly by email.''' (if you don't have her email, please send a private message to get it). In your email, please include this information: :1) Name of applicant :2) Link to the application or name as the applicant is listed on the spreadsheet (if different from above). :3) What is the research question you answered? *Examples: **Find the birth father for John Smith **Find the birth parents for the father of John Smith :4) What was the conclusion of the research? *Examples **Birth father was identified and confirmed through a half sibling DNA match. **Search was closed because John was no longer answering messages after several attempts. **Narrowed down the paternal line to the grandparent level. There are 5 brothers who could be the BF. **Birth father was identified, but not able to confirm--family won't respond to messages. :5) '''For birth parent searches''', please attach a DNA map (this can also be an image of something you created on paper) or a [https://dnapainter.com/tools/probability WATO tree] as evidence of your findings (see example DNA maps below). If you want to learn more about how to use WATO (What Are The Odds), post in the project Google group to ask. The above answers and DNA map will be saved in the application Google group for future use if an application ever needs to be revisited. '''DNA Map Examples. Click on the image to see a larger version.''' {{Image|file=Adoption_Angels_Close_Out_Procedure.png |align=c |size=l |caption=Simple Format DNA Map }} {{Image|file=Adoption_Angels_Close_Out_Procedure-1.png |align=c |size=l |caption=Multiple Generation DNA Map }} ---- '''As you are checking your work by creating the DNA map, ask yourself these important questions:''' *Do the relationships match what is expected for the amount of shared DNA? See the [https://dnapainter.com/tools/sharedcm Shared cM chart] for average expected amounts of DNA. Can you satisfactorily explain any outliers? *Do you have any DNA groups you can't explain, identify, or place in the tree? This may be a problem and should be resolved. *Do you have any missing DNA groups you expect to see now that you have identified the family? This may be a problem and should be resolved. If you need help to resolve any of the three questions above, please ask in the Google group. ---- '''If you were unable to complete the search''' due to lack of DNA matches, too much endogamy, inability to build trees for the location, etc, tell the applicant what is needed before future progress can be made. Recommend they return when the needed information is available if they would like additional help. To complete the Close Out Report, include notes of what you did for the search and what is needed for future progress. Write enough notes for a future Angel to know where to pick up from. You likely won't need a DNA map in this case.

This help page is meant to help those who have recently discovered their biological family or have found lost biological family and wish to make contact. ---- ==Privacy Considerations== *Please keep in mind that although you have a right to know your family heritage and to use DNA to discover that information, having a relationship with your biological family is not included in that right. If a family member does not wish to have a relationship, you need to respect their choice. *You have the right to publicize who your birth parents are if you have been able to prove that beyond a doubt, however please keep their privacy in mind. It is better to ask their permission first before publicizing this information (on a family tree for instance). ==How to Make Contact== *Social Media *Phone Call *Send a Letter [[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Contacting_Family-Letter_Templates|Templates for sending letters]] ==FAQs== *What if I send a message, letter, or try to call and I get no response? **Wait a little while and try again. If you still receive no response, try contacting someone else within the family. It is best not to send repeated messages/letters to the same person as this could look like harassment. *What if my birth family says they don't want anything to do with me? **Unfortunately, we can't make family want to have a relationship or desire to have contact. It is important to honor their wishes. If you give it some time, they may change their mind. That said, if you talked to one family member who says this, try talking to another family member. *What if my birth family doesn't believe they are related to me? **Give them what information you have that makes you believe you are related and offer to pay for a DNA test for the closest relative to prove the relationship. *Who should I contact first? **This depends on your situation. Sometimes it's best to start with a cousin or half sibling first. Others prefer to go straight to their birth parent. *What do I tell my family when I make contact? **Tell them you believe you are related and give them some basic details of your story. Don't tell them everything at first or you might overwhelm them. Once they respond, you can then give them more details based on their response. Let their response be your guide on what to say next.

[[Category: Adoption Resources]] [[Project: Adoption Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] Below you will find several letter templates you can use when reaching out to newly found birth family. These are examples of letters others have used successfully. You may need to make changes to your letter as it applies to your particular situation. == Short Form Letter One== '''This is only an example. Change the information as it applies to your situation.''' Dear [Name], This may come as a surprise. I believe that I am closely related to you as we share the same maternal (or paternal) grandparents [names]. I was born in [City, State/Province] on [Date] to [Name of mother]. I Believe [Name of mother] subsequently met and married [Name of her husband] and that they then had x children [names and dob listed]. My name now is [Name] as I was adopted and have married. I would like the opportunity to talk to you, but understand that you may be reluctant and may need time to think about what you have read here. My address is at the top of this letter, my email address is [Email] and my phone number is [Phone number]. Kind wishes ==Long Form Letter== '''This is only an example. Change the information as it applies to your situation.''' Month day, year
"Dear [Sibling/Parent/Aunt/Uncle/Cousin/Relative],
I wasn't sure how to approach you and the [researcher/agency/Search Angel] I’m working with suggested writing a letter as it is the most comfortable way for people to initially convey this kind of news. I have wanted to speak to you for some time now and through the support and encouragement of my [maternal/paternal/extended] family, friends, and the [name of researcher/agency/Search Angel], I now feel confident about sharing this with you. For the past [timeframe, e.g., months and/or years] I have been searching for my [paternal/maternal] birth family and my search leads me to you. I was born on [birth month, day, year] in [City, State/Province]. On my [adopted/biological] maternal side, I am the [position in family, e.g., third] child of the [number of children in household, e.g., initial six with Mom’s 1st husband] and [optionally describe any special family circumstances, e.g., one subsequent ½ sister from Mom’s 2nd husband, all raised together]. [Describe your life and any circumstances and/or feelings that caused you to search for your biological family. For example, the following is from an NPE’s letter to her paternal ½ sibling: ::*''Throughout my life, my mother always claimed that I was her first husband's child, even though I am not very much like my five maternal siblings in personality or physical features. I was somewhat of an embarrassment to the family because many people, meeting my family for the first time, would ask if I was adopted (I looked and acted so different than my siblings!). My mother had blue eyes and my five siblings’ father had blue eyes, yet I have brown eyes. My mother always stuck to her story. From my earliest memories, and although I love my mother and siblings very much, I’ve always felt that I was born into the wrong family. I just never “fit” - an identity crisis that I have struggled with all my life.]'' As I watched my [children/nieces/nephews/other relatives] grow up and have their own families, I thought a lot about what traits and characteristics they inherited from me and "my side of the family." When you are not told the truth about your family of origin, you lose that oh-so-important connection. Half your medical history, personal traits, etc., remain a mystery. I believe from the information that I have gathered - thanks to DNA testing, and a recent admission from my [related relative or family friend, e.g., stepfather] that your [father/mother] was my biological [father/mother] [explain how the person knew this information, e.g., according to what my mother told him/her before she died] - that you may be a [state the potential relationship, e.g., half-sibling] of mine. I have enclosed some pictures of me at various ages in my life, which may or may not remind you of your family members. Many of my friends think I have facial similarities with the [surname] clan. This letter may alarm you a bit and it is difficult finding the right words to say. The information I have enclosed is private and personal and I do not want to upset anyone. By sending this letter I know I have intruded, but I couldn't let the rest of my life pass staying silent knowing I didn't try to reach out to you. At a minimum I would like to get medical information out of contacting my [maternal/paternal] family, as I suffer from some [explain your medical issues, e.g., chronic disabling diseases such as scoliosis, spinal stenosis, asthma], none of which are in the medical history of my [paternal/maternal] family. However, my best hope is that you want to get to know me, my [state your family members, such as the number of children, e.g., four children and eight grandchildren] as family members. [Add a compelling sentence, e.g., That would make this identity crisis I’ve been trying to manage all my life all worthwhile!] I have no other expectations as I am a successful [describe your career/job history, e.g., computer science professional], financially secure, who has already raised my family and put my children through higher education. We would all like to share our lives with you. I would also like to know what my biological [father/mother] was like, as a [father/mother], a [husband/wife], a [son/daughter] and a [man/woman]. I am willing to pay for any DNA testing that you will agree to do that will scientifically confirm my testing and research results. I hope you will give me the opportunity to speak with you. I don't know what else to say. I hope you will contact me and give us a chance to speak to one another. :Respectfully, :[Your name with potential relationship, e.g., Sibling/Parent/Aunt/Uncle/Cousin/Relative/] :[Your contact information, e.g., phone(s) and address]

[[Category:Adoption Angels Project]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] ==Legal Considerations== Your known parent may have signed a legal contract that forbids them from making contact with your donor parent or making contact before a certain age. It is important to find out from your parent what legal limitations you may be facing before beginning your search. ==Privacy Laws== ==Registries== *[https://www.donorsiblingregistry.com Donor Sibling Registry]

[[Category: United Kingdom Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==Additional Local Resources== ==Privacy Laws== ==WikiTree Project== ==Local Information== *Official Languages: *Currency:

[[Category: Adoption Angels Project]] '''[[Project:Adoption Angels|Adoption Angels Project]]''' ---- '''Adoption Angel Family Finders are volunteers who are experienced in the use of both DNA and traditional genealogy research to find birth parents. They do the work alongside the adoptee/searcher to actively search for the biological family.''' ---- Before you begin, please keep in mind this is first and foremost an emotional journey for our applicants. We might get frustrated with how they deal with their search, but this is their journey and each person's will be different. Put on your compassion hat before you begin. ==Expectations== '''Family Finders are expected to:''' *Be knowledgeable about both the use of DNA and traditional genealogy research to find birth family. *Use the highest level of respect and understanding in your communications with applicants. *Be actively working on at least one case at a time. (Breaks in between cases is perfectly understandable. It is preferred you work toward completing one case in a 6-month period) *Update your cases monthly on the tracking spreadsheet. If you have no new notes to add, simply change the month on the check-in column to the next month. Example: 3/1/22 becomes 4/1/22. *Ask for help when you need it. *Report any problems to a Project Leader immediately. *Respond to all communications from the Project Leaders or Project Coordinators in a timely manner. ==Step by Step instructions for Family Finding== '''(this will vary slightly based on each specific case)''' #Choose the first case (oldest) on the Family Finder tab on the AA Tracker. If the first one is international and you are only comfortable with USA, go to the first USA case. #Put your name in the Angel field. # Put the date of contact in the field next to your name. #Applications are linked to the applicant's name. #Send an introduction letter directly to their email address on the application. Use the words "WikiTree Adoption Angels" in the subject line. Don't ask for information in this letter. This note is a chance to tell them who you are and ask if they are ready to get started. You can tell them how the process of family finding will work. Ask an introduction question such as "Can you confirm your goals are to...?" or "What do you need from me (versus what can you do yourself)?" #If they do not reply within 2 weeks, send a second message by email or through WikiTree. #Send a reply to their message and ask them for DNA viewing privileges or log in information as needed. Please keep any log in information in a secure location. Delete this information when the case is finished. #At Ancestry DNA, ask to be set to Contributor status so you can sort matches and add notes. #Access the DNA information and sort the DNA matches into shared match groups (Leeds Method is one preferred way). #Begin tree building (mirror trees) and identifying MRCAs for each DNA group. #Work the process. Ignore your highest matches (above 400cM) at first. Once you have done the basic tree building (mirror tree) process, then check to see how the highest matches fit into the picture. #Do not ever search around a tree for someone who might fit the age and non-identifying information. This is a set up for disaster. If you don't know how to use the DNA process to lead you to the birth parent, learn how before you proceed. #Always obtain permission from the applicant before sending messages to DNA matches. #Once you have identified a potential birth parent, create a DNA map/DNA chart (or WATO tree) to check your work. Make sure the amount of cM works for the relationships. #Send a summary of how you came to the conclusion of who the birth parent is along with your check-your-work DNA tree to the applicant. #Recommend additional targeted testing for validation of findings (example: asking a potential half sibling or birth parent to test). #Answer any questions about their next steps now that they have the birth parent(s) name. #Once everything is wrapped up, send a completion report to your project leader (see Close Out Procedure below). *What if you can't complete the case? **If you have narrowed it down to the grandparent level, this is considered a solve. **If targeted testing will give you the answers you need, recommend targeted testing to the applicant. However, that step is up to them. **If there aren't enough DNA matches, there is too much endogamy, you are unable to build trees for the location, etc, tell the applicant what is needed for future progress to be made. Recommend they return when the needed information is available if they would like additional help. Complete a Close Out Report. You might not need to include a DNA map in this case. ===Important Considerations=== #At Ancestry there is no reason an Angel should have Manager status. There is a lot of responsibility in this status because you could potentially download their raw DNA or give others viewing access. Don't ask to be added as Manager unless it's a very very rare situation. #Do not pressure the applicant into giving you log in information. Some people like to change their password temporarily and give you that. They can then change it back after the research is complete. You may want to offer this option. #Always, always respect the level of privacy an applicant wishes to work with even if it's not ideal for the work. #If you will be using a relative's DNA for the search, you '''MUST''' get written permission (email is fine) from the person the DNA belongs to before you can access it. #Do not pressure an applicant to contact their birth family. #Do not pressure applicants to upload to Gedmatch or other DNA companies. Although we ask them to for an easier result, we must respect their decision not to upload. ===Leeds Method=== Regardless of which DNA company you are working with, you need to cluster your matches into groups. The Leeds Method is the most efficient way to do this. You can either do it on paper, or in the case of AncestryDNA (and now My Heritage), you can use the colored dot system. If you don't know what the Leeds Method is, you should learn it. If you are not grouping your DNA matches before you begin working with the DNA, you will be running around with no direct route to the answer. You can read more about the Leeds Method on [https://www.danaleeds.com/the-leeds-method/ Dana Leed's blog]. ===What If I'm Stuck?=== You are likely stuck for one of two reasons: You either don't have enough information to complete the case or you need someone with a more experienced eye to see what you may be overlooking. '''Please don't sit on the case hoping something will work itself out eventually.''' We want to complete these cases in a timely manner. *If you are unable to complete the basics of the search within a week (best case scenario searches), you should be able to know what needs to be done to complete the case. Make a plan to get the needed additional information you need or see above: "What if you can't complete the case." *If you can't figure out what needs to be done to complete the case, please either post in the Adoption Angel private Google group about the case, come to one of the weekly video meetings, or contact your project leader for help. Often a more experienced second eye can help you move forward. ===Close Out Procedure=== Please see the [[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Close_Out_Procedure|Close Out Procedure Space Page]] for the steps to follow when you have finished a search. ==DNA Tools== *DNA Shared cM auto chart https://dnapainter.com/tools/sharedcm (free) *WATO https://dnapainter.com (free unless you want multiple trees)

Many Americans, English Canadians and others have French Canadian Ancestors. French Canadians are those whose roots are the French who arrived mostly in the 1600's as well as some in the 1500's and 1700's. They populated what is now Québec (Canada, Nouvelle-France [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada_(New_France) Québec]) and the Maritime provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island (Acadie, Nouvelle-France [http://www.acadian-home.org/map-of-acadia.html Acadie]). There are also of course those French who settled in Louisiana, some in Newfoundland and those further west in Canada and the US as early as the 1600's. The Métis who were part French and part First Nations also have French names and are mostly in the Prairies ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C3%A9tis Métis]). ==Challenging aspects of French Canadian genealogy== *The level of endogamy is always high and can reach absurd levels in certain communities (Saguenay-Lac St-Jean, Acadia and one of the most endogamous communities: PEI French Canadian Acadian ancestors). *Names changed frequently and seemingly randomly, both first and last names. Dit names are a whole area of study that to my knowledge is unique to Québécois. *The majority of boys were baptized with Jean Baptiste and/or Joseph as a part of their given name (French Canadians do not have true middle names) and the girls with Marie making it difficult to sort out who is who. *Families were very large and often used the same name for a new sibling when one had died, or even the same name for two living siblings. *Literacy was very infrequent, names came from various regions of France and had to be interpreted by someone from another area of France with a different dialect leading to variabilities in the spelling of any given last name. *Many people had two or more spouses because of the high mortality rate. *Parishes split frequently and someone will seem to have moved when they were simply "redistricted". *In some areas (PEI in particular) names became anglicized from one generation to the next in only some of the children with little indication this happened making it appear as if whole new family emerged and some people disappeared. This help page deals with those French Canadians who originate in the area that is now Québec, the Québécois people. Much has been written about the first settlers, fur trappers, soldiers (Soldats du Carignan and others), Filles du Roi, Filles à Marier. The whole of the Québécois population (8.3 Million in Québec, 2-10 Million descendants in the US, etc. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qu%C3%A9b%C3%A9cois_people Wiki Entry Québécois]) is descended from about 2,000 original colonists with a few others later on who, occasionally, were not from France. Before entering your Québécois ancestors please review the Wikitree Québécois project guidelines on names and place names: [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Project:Quebecois#Guidelines_on_Names Québécois Project Guidelines] ==References of use to Québécois genealogy== Two linked sites (there are links from one to the other and subscription to one gives discounts to the other) will be extremely useful to any research into Québécois ancestors, PRDH is considerd a reliable reference by Wikitree): PRDH-IGD.com ([https://www.prdh-igd.com/en/le-prdh Projet de Recherche en Démographie Humaine-Institut Généalogique Drouin]) has compiled and cross referenced all of the parish registers of Québec (and notarized marriage contracts) from the first records to 1850. They have free acces parts to their site as well as pay per use acces to their database. The database is organized by Act, Individual and Family. Genealogiequebec.com is the successor to L'Institut généalogique Drouin. [[Drouin-328|Joseph Drouin]] was a pioneer of Québec genealogy (outside of the clergy), his Institut photographed many parish registers that are today available online through FamilySearch.org [https://www.familysearch.org/search/image/index?owc=https://www.familysearch.org/service/cds/recapi/sord/collection/1321742/waypoints Québec Catholic Parish Registers] as well as [https://www.familysearch.org/search/image/index?owc=https://www.familysearch.org/service/cds/recapi/collections/1929561/waypoints Non Catholic Parish Registers]. These are digitized on Ancestry.com with some additional images, parishes and at times images of a copy of the register that is different than at Family Search. ==Other Useful Research Tools== Dictionaries of Québec families (not considered references by wikitree): #The most famous is the work of [[Tanguay-102|Cyprien Tanguay]], 7 volumes representing every family up until about 1870 traced back to the original French colonists. It is digitized on Ancestry.com. There are some errors but on the whole it is a unique and uniquely useful tool. [https://www.ancestry.ca/search/collections/2177/ Tanguay Collection Ancestry] (paid subscription). Tanguay had access to documents which have since been destroyed or lost. #Recueil de généalogies des comtés de Beauce, Dorchester, Frontenac, 1625-1946 by Eloi-Gérard Talbot. A list of all the families in that particular geographic area arranged alphabetically. Digitized on Ancestry.com: [https://www.ancestry.ca/search/collections/28226/ Talbot Ancestry] (paid subscription) or online non digitized book at FamilySearch.com: [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/29372-recueil-de-genealogies-des-comtes-de-beauce-dorchester-frontenac-1625-1946-v-01?offset=2 Talbot Family Search]. FichierOrigine: A French only online database of original settlers to Nouvelle-France for those whose provenance in France is known. Often will have information about parents, grandparents and siblings in France [https://www.fichierorigine.com/ FichierOrigine]. Can be used as a reference in Wikitree. NosOrigines.qc.ca: A free online family tree that is user generated, unfortunately unsourced and unreliable but can be useful as a starting point. Not considered a reference by Wikitree. ==Challenges in tracing Québécois ancestors== ===Last Names=== Because the founding population of Québec was quite small last names quickly lost their distinctiveness. To help distinguish between families monikers and nicknames became very common, these are the "dit" names. A dit name could refer to a person's occupation, their area of origin, the first name of their father, a physical characteristic etc. Think of the particule "dit" as translating directly to AKA. This makes it difficult to trace a person from their baptism to their marriage(s) and through to their burial as they may have been known by their last name, their dit name or both at various times in their life. It also means a whole branch of a family is known by the name and another whole branch by the dit name making it seem you are dealing with two families instead of one. Occasionally people acquired another dit name during their life. To find which names are associated together visit the free page at PRDH:[https://www.prdh-igd.com/en/stat/nom-surnom Name-Nickname associations]. Another challenge exists because literacy was quickly lost. Many original colonists could read and write but within a few generations most could neither read, write not indeed sign their name. This was compounded by pronunciation of names from one area of France being interpreted by a clergyman from an area with a whole different language or dialect writing down names phonetically the best he could. The result was a wide variation in spelling of last names between regions of Québec and at differing times such that one person could have very different spellings associated with their name during their lifetime. PRDH has a free page that will list for you all known variations of a name's spelling: [https://www.prdh-igd.com/en/dico/noms Name Variations]. Finally when French Canadian names were brought to English speaking areas (ie the US) the names were sometimes spelled phonetically (Cyr= Sear) of translated (Cyr= Wax) (see [[Cyr-1782| Rose Cyr Dumas]]. Look for both possibilities when searching for the link back to the original Québécois name. The one saving grace of French Canadian last names is that women keep their birth names their whole lives, they are referred to by their own last names through the birth of their children to remarriages and at burial. This definitely makes tracing family relationships a little easier. Just remember not to change women's names on their profile to their husband's names, those can go in other last name if you feel it should be noted. ===First Names=== Québécois usually had many many children, more than 10 in a family was typical. Infant and child mortality was high. One family might have three children baptized with the same name and only the last survived. At least one family had two children with the exact same name: [[Patry-18|René Patry]] and [[Patry-19|René Patry]]. A large proportion of boys were baptized Jean Baptiste or Joseph, and girls Marie, with or without another name. Note that French Canadians do not have middle names, all of the first names are considered the first name, without hyphens (Wikitree does not like this and will give you a warning message, hit "save anyway"). Hyphens are a relatively new addition and were rare before 1850. Finally sometimes people became known by a different first name at different stages of their life or clergy made mistakes in the registers with respect to first names and last names. All of this leads to confusion that requires confirmation of identity by reviewing family relationships in the records of several family members. Many birth and most marriage records list parents, siblings, aunts, uncles or grandparents. Cousins are not as useful unless followed by the word "germain" which refers to a first cousin specifically. The result is a difficult task of identifying just who is who with names changing, multiple people with the same name in the same time period and same parish. PRDH has sorted family relationships and is extremely useful for matching people to their correct families. Genealogiequebec is useful to identify same name couples (Joseph Roy who married Marie Gagnon for example gives 6 different marriages between 1750 and 1800) and allow you to link your ancestor to the correct couple after more research.

[[Category:Adoption Resources]] Although technically historical adoption is when an adoption has occurred with one of your ancestors, some of the information here also applies to any non living adoptee for whom you are looking for the birth parents or have found the birth parents. ---- ==How To Set Up The Profile== *For all non living adoptees, please attach only biological family to them. This will ensure others who are related to them know they are looking at a biological family tree. *To acknowledge the adoptive parents, you can choose two ways to do so. #Add the [[Template:Adopted_Child|Adopted Child Template]] which names both the biological parents and adoptive parents. It will also link to the adoptive parents' tree. #If you don't wish to use the template, you can simply link to the adoptive parents in the biography using the Wiki ID link brackets: [[WikiTree ID|Name]]. ===What Name Should I Use?=== There are several choices you could go with when adding your relative's name to their personal profile. It partly depends on whether you know their last name at birth or not. All of the following options are acceptable options: LNAB=Last Name at Birth
CLN=Current Last Name
OLN=Other Last Names
*If the last name at birth is known, use this as the LNAB, and put the adopted last name as the CLN. *If the last name at birth is unknown, use their adopted last name as the LNAB. *If the last name at birth is unknown, use the word Unknown as the LNAB until you find the birth parents. Then change the LNAB to the known birth name. Use the Adopted last name or married last name as CLN. ==How To Find Birth Parents== *Look at the earliest census for clues. Sometimes adoptees were listed under their last name at birth. *Look for newspaper articles at the time of birth or adoption. Often an adoption was announced in the newspaper. *Depending on the date of adoption, check the state where they were adopted to see if records existed at that time and if they are available to you. This link has information by state for the United States: https://adopteerightslaw.com/united-states-obc/ *Take an Ancestry DNA test and use the DNA to discover the birth parents. Look at the following help page for how to best use your DNA results: [[Space:DNA_Basics_for_Adoptees|DNA Basics for Adoptees]] *Call the local historical society for the area the family lived in or the adoption took place. They often have family stories and sometimes they mention an orphan coming to live with a family.

[[Category: Adoption Resources]] [[Category:Adoption Angels Project]] [[Project: Adoption Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] '''This help page is for finding living family members such as children, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and siblings who were adopted away from the family. The process is different from finding birth parents.''' ---- ==Checklist== * Take a DNA test and then upload that test everywhere. See [[Space:DNA_Basics_for_Adoptees|DNA Basics for Adoptees]] for more information on what tests to take. If a family member is looking for their family, they are likely to take a DNA test. **Check Regularly for new DNA matches. **Send messages to your DNA matches, especially your closest ones and ask if they might have information on your family member. *Join adoption registries in your area or country. Do a Google search to locate registries for family members, siblings, etc. [http://almasociety.org/ ALMA] is one such registry. *If you have their current name, search in: **Newspapers **School yearbooks **City directories **Obituaries **Social media **Google search *Post a message on your WikiTree profile about who you are looking for and your goal in finding them. It is WikiTree policy not to post private information about living family, so please don't add their birth date or other private information. *Build your family tree on WikiTree for at least the first few generations. If a family member is looking for their family, they are likely to Google names. *If the person has a known or suspected talent, like music, art, theater, working with electronics, computers, etc, look for local clubs or organizations that they may have joined. Traits often run in families, so if you have musical talent it's possible a sibling or child will also. *If the person is old enough to appear in the 1940 US Census, look at who lived on the same street. Sometimes you can find people who are still in a neighboring house and they can have information and might even have current addresses where they send things like Christmas cards. *Consider calling a local neighborhood paper and see if they would run a short article about your quest to find your lost relative. *If the adoptee may live in the same town as you, consider putting a small personal ad in the local paper asking the person to contact you. Also try tacking up flyers on community bulletin boards. Be careful about posting your personal information. Consider getting a P.O. Box or setting up an email address specifically for your search. *Check with local alumni offices. While they may not give you contact info, they may agree to pass on your contact info. *Repeat these steps at least every 3 months or more frequently as it applies. ===Parents Searching for Children=== *Follow the Checklist *If available, request information from the state your child was adopted in. [https://adopteerightslaw.com/united-states-obc/ This webpage] has information on which states give adoption paperwork to birth parents. ==Privacy Considerations== To protect the privacy of the person you are searching for, please consider the information you post publicly about them such as on social media. By posting their name, birth date and birth location, you are potentially giving information to identity thieves and may be publicizing information your family member wants to keep private. ==Contacting Living Family== Family members who were adopted away may not wish to have contact with their biological family. Proceed with caution when reaching out. If they say the don't wish for contact, please respect their wishes. However, sometimes the shock of hearing from you may be too much at first causing an immediate rejection. You might give them a few months and try again.

[[Category: United Kingdom Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==Additional Local Resources== ==Privacy Laws== ==WikiTree Project== ==Local Information== *Official Languages: *Currency:

[[Category: Adoption Angels Project]] ---- All Adoption Angels fall under the title of Mentor, but '''an Adoption Angel Mentor is someone who wishes to help answer questions for adoptees''' from "How do I set up my profile?" to "What do I do first to find my family?" AA Mentors are typically the first person an applicant will have contact with, so it is an important role to ensure streamlining the application process and welcoming the applicant to WikiTree. Mentors need to become familiar with a wide variety of resources available for adoptees. ---- ==What Mentors Help With== * Mentors are the “first responders” tasked with welcoming the applicant to their search using the templated letter to make a connection. *Mentors ask for clarifying information in response to their application so the next Angel can be as efficient as possible. *Mentors help applicants set up their WikiTree profiles and may explain the various privacy levels available so applicant feels comfortable entering their information on WikiTree. *Mentors help adoptees find information needed for a bio family search such as birth records and non-identifying information by being able to find state adoption practices relevant to the applicant and assisting them in requesting this information. *Mentors help adoptees find adoption registries in their area and encourage them to register if they are looking to connect with their biological family. *Mentors explain the WikiTree AA process and refer applicants to another Angel who may have the knowledge needed to answer a question about their search. *Mentors may also fill other roles in the applicant’s journey if they have multiple areas of expertise. *Mentors may help answer questions in g2g on topics related to finding birth family, adoption, and other aspects of unknown parentage. ==Preparing to be a Mentor== *First read the [[Adoption_Angels#Mission_Statement|Adoption Angels Mission Statement]] so you are familiar with what Angels do and do not do. * Read the [[Space:Adoption_Angels_Welcome_Mat|Adoption Angels Welcome Mat]] for general instructions. *Follow the "Adoption_Angels" and "Adoption" tags on your personal profile. This will give you notifications when people create posts in g2g with these tags. *Make sure you have access to the Google Doc with instructions on how to help new applicants using the templated letter and the Mentor tab in the Tracking spreadsheet. * Become Familiar with the [[Space:Adoption_Angels_Basic_Search_Help|Basic Search Help]] page written for applicants. *Read [[Space:Adoptees:_How_to_Set_Up_Your_Profile|Adoptees: How to Set Up Your Profile]] and use this as a reference link to help adoptees set up their profile. **[[Template:Adopted_Child|Adopted Child Template]] for use on profile biographies. *Know where to find geographical specific information. See the [[Space:Adoption_Angels_Resources_by_Location|Resources by Location]] help page for more information. Please add to/update to this page if you come across new information. You can always do a in internet search or ask in the Adoption Angels Discussion Group if you can't find an answer. *Review existing profiles of adoptees that are public on WikiTree. *Become familiar with the [https://www.wikitree.com/contact/adoption/ Adoption Angels contact form]. *Be familiar with [[Space:Adoption_Angels_Using_Social_Media_to_Search|Using Social Media to Search]]. *Become familiar with the Mentor tab in the Adoption Angels Tracking Spreadsheet and how to use it. *If you need additional help, ask a Mentor to let you shadow them and ask questions before you strike out on your own. *Be prepared to have a “conversation” with the applicant about the goal they listed on their application. *Know when to ask for help. No one is an expert on everything. We have a community of Angels, many of which have expertise in multiple roles. ==Applicant FAQs for Mentors== How do I setup my profile on WikiTree if I’m adopted? *Refer to [[Space:Adoptees:_How_to_Set_Up_Your_Profile|Adoptees: How to Set Up Your Profile]] and use this as a reference link when assisting applicants. *Refer to the [[Template:Adopted_Child|Adopted Child Template]] How do I become a WikiTree member, I only have guest status? *Refer them to this help page: [[Help:Volunteers|Help:Volunteers]] or refer them to the greeters by messaging wikigreeters@googlegroups.com and referencing their wiki-ID. What Adoption Registries should I register with? *Those closest to the geographical area where you were born (if you know the location). *As many as possible. Do you need access to my DNA test? *If you wish to utilize DNA for a faster, more affirmative search, yes. An Angel proficient in genetic genealogy will require access, but I do not at this time. Where can I learn the basics of DNA? *If you need more help with questions about DNA, you can refer the member to [[Space:DNA_Basics_for_Adoptees|DNA Basics for Adoptees]] When can we start? *I will help ensure your application is complete and then I will place it in the queue for the next Angel proficient in the area you need help. Our wait times vary depending on the availability of our volunteer angels. How will you locate my biological parents? *It depends. Each case is different. If you are able to obtain access to your adoption records it may be quick. If you need to work with a genetic genealogist using your DNA to locate relatives, it will depend on the number of DNA matches you have and available records. Some cases are solved in weeks, some cases may only be able to narrow the search to a great grand-parent and their descendent. Will you contact my biological parent for me? *If we are able to determine your biological parents or immediate family, we will not contact them for you, but we can help you write an email or a letter or make other suggestions for contacting them. ''{Pamela is starting a help page with templates for letters which can be added here}'' I need someone to talk to about the mixed feelings I have, can you help? *If the applicant needs more than some hand holding and basic support, Mentors can direct these conversations to online support groups or encourage the applicant to seek professional help near them. Will you fill out all the information for my family tree? *A Researcher Angel whose expertise is building family trees will assist you with this step of your search once your birth parents have been identified. Do you have an Ancestry membership? Can you look something up for me? *Family Finders will help you with any research connected to your search for birth family. However, if you need general research assistance not related to your search, those questions are best left to the G2G forum. Let me help you post your question. ('''Please note:''' When posting questions in G2G people should be reminded that it is against WikiTree policy to post information about living people.) ==Need More Information?== *If an adoptee has a question you are unable to answer, feel free to ask in the [https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/wt-angels-discussion Adoption Angels Discussion Google Group] *Repeated questions will be added to the FAQ section of the Researcher help page.

[[Category: New Zealand Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==Additional Local Resources== ==Privacy Laws== ==WikiTree Project== ==Local Information== *Official Languages: *Currency: * New Zealand: Adoption Services, Private Bag 6901, Wellington 6141, New Zealand http://www.cyf.govt.nz/adoption/contact-our-adoption-team.html

This table shows what paperwork is available to adoptees in each location. ==Unite States of America== {| border="1" bgcolor="#B7D6BD" | '''Location''' || '''Non-Identifying''' ||'''Original Birth Cert.''' || '''Local Registry''' ||'''Special Rules''' | |- |Maryland||Limited||only adoptions after January 1, 2000|| || |- | Texas|| | || Limited || || || |- |} ==Canada== {| border="1" bgcolor="#F5F3BB" | '''Location''' || '''Non-Identifying''' ||'''Original Birth Cert.''' || '''Local Registry''' ||'''Special Rules''' | |- | Alberta|| | || || || || |- | British Columbia|| | || || || || |- | New Brunswick|| | || || || || |- | Quebec|| | || || || || |- |} ==International== {| border="1" bgcolor="#C4A0EC" | '''Location''' || '''Non-Identifying''' ||'''Original Birth Cert.''' || '''Local Registry''' ||'''Special Rules''' | |- | Australia|| | || || || || |- | England|| | || || || || |- |France|| | || || || || |- | Ireland|| | || || || || |- |Phillipines|| | || || || || |- | Scotland|| | || || || || |- | South Africa|| | || || || || |- |}

[[Category: Adoption Angels Project]] ---- All Adoption Angels in one way or another fall under the title of Researcher, but an Adoption Angel Researcher is someone who wishes to use their research skills on behalf of adoptees and other Angels helping adoptees find family. ---- ==What Researchers Help With== *Doing location or resource specific look ups for other Adoption Angels upon request. *Help Adoptees who have identified their biological parents to grow their tree through research. *Help Adoptees who have identified their biological parents to add their family to WikiTree. ==Preparing to be a Researcher== *First read the [[Adoption_Angels#Mission_Statement|Adoption Angels Mission Statement]] so you are familiar with what Angels do and do not do. * Read the [[Space:Adoption_Angels_Welcome_Mat|Adoption Angels Welcome Mat]] for general instructions. *Become familiar with the [https://www.wikitree.com/contact/adoption/ Adoption Angels contact form]. *Make sure your location or research expertise are listed on the Angel Directory (on the Tracking Spreadsheet) for other Angels to see. ==Researcher FAQs== Where do I find applicants who need help? *Look on the Researchers tab in the Tracking Spreadsheet. All applicant's who need research help will be listed there. Put your name in the Angel column and then reach out to the applicant to offer help. How do I know when another Angel needs research help? *They will either contact you directly (if you have a location or other specialty they need help in) or they will post in the Discussion Google group asking for help. Do I have to add the applicant's family to WikiTree for them? *This is not required nor expected. However, if this is work you absolutely enjoy, you are welcome to offer this choice to the applicant. You will need to be on their personal profile trusted list so you can add them as manager to all the profiles you create. Be sure to remove yourself as manager once the work is completed. What if I don’t have access to the information I need to continue the research? *You aren’t expected to have access to all the records you might need or have expertise in every area. Feel free to reach out in the [https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/wt-angels-discussion Adoption Angels Discussion Google Group] for research help from other Angels at any time. The applicant is expecting me to do everything for them and this is making me feel uncomfortable. *We expect applicants to have a hand in every aspect of their family search to the best of their abilities. If they are treating you like a paid genealogist and offering no assistance or feedback in their search, feel free to tell them your expectation of their help. If the problem continues, feel free to tell them you feel you have done all you can for them at this time. We will then close the application. ==Close Out Procedure== If you have worked with an applicant from the Researcher tab to build a tree or find family, please see the [[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Close_Out_Procedure|Close Out Procedure Space Page]] for more information on what you need to do to close out the application when you are finished. ==Need More Information?== *If you need more information on what documents are available to adoptees based on location, see the [[Space:Adoption_Angels_Resources_by_Location|Resources by Location]] help page. *If you need more help with questions about DNA, you can refer the member to [[Space:DNA_Basics_for_Adoptees|DNA Basics for Adoptees]] *If an adoptee has a question you are unable to answer, feel free to ask in the [https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/wt-angels-discussion Adoption Angels Discussion Google Group] *Repeated questions will be added to the FAQ section of the Researcher help page.

[[Category: Adoption Resources]] [[Category: Adoption]] [[Category:Adoption Angels Project]] [[Project: Adoption Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] '''This is a list of help pages available for adoptees to help them find their biological family.''' '''If you are an adoptee, have taken a DNA test, and are ready for help finding your birth parents, please complete the [https://www.wikitree.com/contact/adoption/ Adoption Angels application].''' ==Follow the Process== Before you begin your search, it's important to understand there is a process to finding birth parents that will make the search quickly successful. Here are the basic first steps: #Decide on your goals for the search. What do you hope will happen by the end of the search? #Gather all the available information about your adoption story (both stories and paperwork). #Take a DNA test. #Seek help from people with experience finding birth family. #Once your search is complete, connect with others who can advise you on how to find emotional closure. ==How to Get Started== *[[Space:Adoptees:_How_to_Set_Up_Your_Profile|Adoptees: How to Set Up Your Profile on WikiTree]] * [[Space:Adoption_Angels_Basic_Search_Help|Basic Search Help]] == DNA == *[[Space:DNA_Basics_for_Adoptees|DNA Basics for Adoptees]] *[[Space:DNA_and_Adoption|DNA and Adoption]] More advanced information == Resources by Location == These pages are not all up to date. For up to date information do an internet search for what paperwork and resources are available in your location (state, county, province, or country). *[[Space:Adoption_Angels_Resources_by_Location|Resources by Location]] ==Finding Search Help== *Contact WikiTree's Adoption Angels by filling out an [https://www.wikitree.com/contact/adoption/ Adoption Angel Contact Form] *[https://www.facebook.com/groups/DNADetectives DNA Detectives on Facebook] offers lots of help and advice for anyone searching for biological family. *For professional help, find a genetic genealogist who specializes in DNA and adoption at [https://www.apgen.org/ The Association of Professional Genealogists]. ===Before you Apply for Adoption Angels Help=== Please see the [[Space:Adoption_Angels_Application_Checklist|Adoption Angels application checklist]]. The more items you complete before applying will ensure your place on our list for the next available Angel who will assist you in finding your birth family. ==Contacting Family== *[[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Contacting_Family-Letter_Templates|Letter Templates]] ==Searching For Family Adopted Away== If you are searching for family members who may have been adopted away from your family, please see: [[Space:Adoption_Angels:_How_to_Find_Living_Family_Members|How to Find Living Family Members]]. Due to privacy concerns, Adoption Angels does not assist with these types of searches. ==Historical Adoptions== For birth parent searches past your grandparents, please see: [[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Historical_Adoption|Historical Adoption]]

[[Category:Adoption Angels Project]] [[Project: Adoption Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] This page is for people who are searching for unknown parents, whether you are an NPE (unexpected parentage), donor child, foundling, disconnected from your family, or any other cases of unknown parentage. If you are an adoptee, please see [[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Resources_for_Adoptees|Resources for Adoptees]]. '''Although our name is Adoption Angels, we assist with all cases of unknown parentage.''' ==Follow the Process== Before you begin your search, it's important to understand there is a process to finding birth parents that will make the search quickly successful. Here are the basic first steps: #Decide on your goals for the search. What do you hope will happen by the end of the search? #Gather all the available information about your birth history (both stories and paperwork). #Take a DNA test. #Seek help from people with experience finding birth family. #Once your search is complete, connect with others who can advise you on how to find emotional closure. == DNA == *[[Space:DNA_Basics_for_Adoptees|DNA Basics for Adoptees]] *[[Space:DNA_and_Adoption|DNA and Adoption]] More advanced information ==Finding Search Help== *Contact WikiTree's Adoption Angels by filling out an [https://www.wikitree.com/contact/adoption/ Adoption Angel Contact Form] *[https://www.facebook.com/groups/DNADetectives DNA Detectives on Facebook] offers lots of help and advice for anyone searching for biological family--not just adoptees. *For professional help, find a genetic genealogist who specializes in DNA and finding birth parents at [https://www.apgen.org/ The Association of Professional Genealogists]. ===Before you Apply for Adoption Angels Help=== Please see the [[Space:Adoption_Angels_Application_Checklist|Adoption Angels application checklist]]. The more items you complete before applying will ensure your place on our list for the next available Angel who will assist you in finding your birth family. ==Donor Children== If you are a donor conceived child, please see [[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Donor_Children_Resources|Donor Children Resources for more information]]. ==Searching For Family Members== If you are searching for family members who may have been disconnected from your family, please see: [[Space:Adoption_Angels:_How_to_Find_Living_Family_Members|How to Find Living Family Members]]. Due to privacy concerns, Adoption Angels does not assist with these types of searches.

[[Category: Africa Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==Additional Local Resources== ==Privacy Laws== ==WikiTree Project== ==Local Information== *Official Languages: *Currency: All adoptions in South Africa are registered with the Registrar of Adoptions at the [https://www.westerncape.gov.za/service/how-do-i-find-my-birth-parents National Department of Social Development] located in Pretoria. These records are kept for 70 years. According to the [https://www.justice.gov.za/legislation/acts/2005-038%20childrensact.pdf Children’s Act], an adoptee may request his adoption records and start searching for his biological parents when he is 18 years old. Adoptive parents may also access adoption records, but only when their adopted child turns 18. A biological parent is legally allowed to ask for information once a child turns 18, but will only be given information if the child and adoptive parents have given their written permission. If the biological parent asks for information about the child before the child decides to access the records, the request will be relayed to the child once he requests the records.

[[Category:Adoption Angels Project]] [[Project: Adoption Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] '''Note: "Adoptees" can also include unexpected parentage (NPEs), donor children, and other cases of unknown parentage. Adoptee is often used generically by Adoption Angels. Adoption Angels will help find birth parents for you, your parent(s), or your grandparent(s). ''' ---- '''Please complete each of these items to the best of your ability before completing the [https://www.wikitree.com/contact/adoption/ Adoption Angels application form.] Doing so will ensure your place on our list for the next available Angel who will assist you in finding your birth family.''' ---- #'''Consider your goal for your search.''' Knowing what outcome you want will help us tailor your search to your needs. Plus, we often will have answers very quickly once we begin the search. It helps if you are prepared for what you want to do next as soon as you have the names of the family you are searching for. #'''Take a DNA test.''' Paperwork and people often lie, but DNA never does. Since we want to provide you with accurate answers, a DNA test is now required for Adoption Angels help. In most cases ANCESTRY DNA is preferred. We can often cut down the search time significantly by using Ancestry DNA over the other tests. If that test is not available to you, please see [[Space:DNA_Basics_for_Adoptees|DNA Basics-Which Test Do I Take]]. DNA tests often go on sale for as low as $59 especially around holidays. It is okay to apply for help while you are still waiting for your DNA test results. #'''Upload your DNA test for free''' to [https://www.myheritage.com/dna/upload My Heritage], [https://www.familytreedna.com/autosomal-transfer FTDNA], and [https://www.gedmatch.com/ Gedmatch] for additional DNA matches and comparison purposes. Directions are available on each site. #'''Order any available paperwork'''. If you were adopted, do an online search to see if an original birth certificate, non-identifying information, or adoption paperwork is available to you in your state, province, county, or country. #'''Label as many of your known DNA matches as possible''' by using the notes feature for the company where you tested. (Examples: "brother's son" or "related on the Smith line") #'''If you are outside the USA,''' please make note of how many DNA matches you have above 100cM. Adoption Angels will ask you this question. #'''Look at your ethnicity results at one DNA company and note the top three groups.''' To better serve you, Adoption Angels will ask you for this information to pair you with an Angel with the most experience in these areas. #'''As soon as these steps have been completed to the best of your ability, you are ready to complete the application''' and we will be able to start your search more quickly. If there are items you were unable to complete without help, a Mentor Angel may be available to assist you. Now go back to the [https://www.wikitree.com/contact/adoption/ application form], fill out as much as you are able, and click submit. You will hear from someone from the Adoption Angels Project within about a week. ==How this Works== *Once you apply for help, you will receive a message from a Mentor Angel who will check that the above has been completed. If you are unable to complete one of the items, they will assist you before you are placed on a waiting list for the next available Family Finder Angel. *The next available Family Finder Angel will send you a message letting you know they are available to assist you. * The Family Finder Angel will gather information from you (see section below). They will also need access to your DNA results. At Ancestry you can easily give them viewing access. '''At the other DNA companies, you will have to give them your log-in information for their help.''' If you are uncertain about doing this when asked, you can verify the Angel by messaging the [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project Leader]] or checking the Angel's profile for their Adoption Angels badge. #The Family Finder Angel will use your DNA and their expertise to build mirror trees until they narrow down to your birth parent (or grandparents/great grandparents). They will relay any findings to you by email. When they have narrowed down to your birth parent, they will provide an explanation of how they came to that conclusion. #The Family Finder Angel will make recommendations to you on how to verify the findings without a doubt. They will also make recommendations on how to connect with your newly found birth family if that is your wish. == Adoption Angels Mission Statement == We recognize that unknown parentage is emotional and sensitivity is needed in working with you to find information and family connections. The following is our mission statement laying out what our Adoption Angels will and will not do to aid you with your search for your birth family. '''Adoption Angels will:''' #Help Adoptees to set up their WikiTree profiles. #Help Adoptees to find information needed for a biological family search such as birth records and non-identifying information. #Help Adoptees use the information they have to search for birth families. #Help Adoptees who have found their birth parents to get started on creating their biological trees. #Help in searches for biological parents for deceased members of the family up to your grandparents. #Help integrate DNA test results into the search for family. '''Adoption Angels will not:''' #Research for or on behalf of minor children (under the age of 18). #Make contact with the biological family of searcher. #Pressure any individual to make contact once the lost family is located. #Assist someone other than the adoptee without the adoptee contacting the Angel to give consent. #Search for living relatives (such as a child who was adopted away from the family at birth). #Charge for their services. #Work on historical adoptions (past finding parents of grandparents) Further, privacy is a key point of our [[Special:Honor_Code|Honor Code]]. As such, Adoption Angels will be sure any private information will be kept 100% confidential.

[[Category: Adoption Resources]] ---- Note: If you are looking for information on how to search for parents for non living adoptees, also known as historical adoptions, please see this help page: [[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Historical_Adoption|Historical Adoptions]] [[Space:Adoptees:_How_to_Set_Up_Your_Profile|Click here for more information on how to set up your profile as an adoptee]] [https://www.wikitree.com/contact/adoption/ Click here for the Adoption Angel Contact Form] ---- ==The Basics to Starting a Search for Biological Relatives== Searching for your birth family is a big decision and there are many things to consider. It is also important to decide whether what you want is more information about your birth family or to actually meet them. You should determine what your expectations are and how you will deal with them if they are not met. Some adoptees have wonderful experiences when reuniting with their birth families, others do not. You might worry your birth parents don't want to meet you, or maybe you don't know if you want a relationship with them. These are all things to think about before deciding to search. === Start with Yourself === Like genealogy, the best place to start is with yourself. Take a few minutes to write down everything you know about your birth and your adoption, from the name of the hospital you were born to the name of the agency you were adopted from and anything else you might be aware of regarding those things. ===Talk to Adoptive Family=== This is not always an easy thing to do. These people raised you and you don't want them to think you aren't grateful for their love and support. However, it's okay to want to know who you are for many reasons, the least of which is to know about your medical background. This doesn't dishonor or disrespect your adoptive family. They are and will always be a very important part of what makes you who you are. Some adoptees won't search until their adoptive parents have died, because they are afraid that their adoptive parents will be upset by the search. This may be true in your case. You are the one who knows best, so you will have to judge for yourself if you can approach your adoptive parents for information. ===Talk to Agency/Attorney=== If you can, find out what agency or attorney handled your adoption and contact them. They can give you non-identifying information. It varies by state and agency/attorney but that can include things like: :*Medical history :*Health status :*Height, weight, eye, hair color :*Ethnic origins :*Level of education :*Professional achievement :*Religion It's possible your birth parents may have left permission with the agency/attorney to give you their contact information. You could also leave a letter with them indicating that if your birth parents contact them, they can give out your contact information. ====Adoptee Non-Identifying Reports==== At the onset of your search, it is imperative that you obtain a non-identifying report from the state or county department that handled the adoption. In nearly all US States, adoption records are sealed and withheld from public inspection after an adoption is finalized. Most States have instituted procedures by which parties to an adoption may obtain both non-identifying and identifying information from an adoption record while still protecting the interests of all parties. Approximately 26 US States allow birth parents access to non-identifying information, generally about the health and social history of the child. The word “approximately” is used to stress the fact that the States frequently amend their laws. Currently, states that allow birth parents access to non-identifying information are: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania (if the adopted person is at least age 21), Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Washington, and West Virginia. In addition, 15 States give such access to adult birth siblings: Arizona, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, and Vermont. Policies on what information is collected and how that information is maintained and disclosed vary from state to state. First check your state to see what form is required for requesting a non-identifying report. Complete the form and provide any documents they may require (such as a photo ID). You may also send a request to other agencies by writing a letter such as the one which follows. Be certain to have your signature on the letter notarized and attach two acceptable forms of identification (preferably what you used for the notarization). See [[Space:Adoption_Angels_Resources_by_Location|Resources by Location]] for more information by state or country. If you are unable to locate where to send your request for a non-identifying report, contact the Adoption Angels Project and one of our angels will assist you. At the same time, you request the non-identifying it is a good idea to contact the agency that handled the adoption--such as Florence Crittenton Home, Salvation Army Maternity Home, or Harriet Walker Hospital to name a few--and ask for as much information as possible. Often, these facilities have a program instituted to provide non-identifying information to adoptees or birth parents. And in most cases, obtaining information from the institution that handled the adoption is much more quickly accomplished than getting a report from a state or county agency. '''An adoptee should, however, request the non-identifying information from both because there might be somewhat different information in each report.''' You should always provide your telephone number and email address as ways to contact you. After sending your request (it is recommended to send it by registered mail, return receipt so you are certain it is received) you must be prepared to wait. Most agencies who provide non-identifying reports respond rather quickly because they know you are anxiously awaiting the information. And they usually give you a time frame which you can expect to receive the report. If not, after 90 days have passed, it is recommended that you follow-up with a phone call if possible or an email asking when you should expect the report. '''Example of Request for Adoptee Non-Identifying Report'''
(can be used for both government agency and facility handling the adoption, however most government agencies have a required form.) To Whom It May Concern: My name is (NAME). I was born on (DOB) in (CITY), (STATE). I was adopted at birth by (adopted parent’s names). My adoption was handled by your agency/organization. I would like to request all non-identifying information related to my adoption, as mandated by state law. In addition to the non-identifying information, please send me copies of all original documents with identifying info removed as well any photos of me from before my adoption. Please include the following in the non-identifying information: :The age of my parents at the time of my birth :My given name at time of birth :My mother’s and father’s weight, height, hair color, eye color, general appearance :Any educational information, certificates, degrees held :Any religious background or affiliations :My birthparents ethnic origins (Irish/Italian etc.) and places of birth. :The number of sisters/brothers my birthmother had at the time of my birth, plus their ages/occupations. :Any information on my birthparents upbringing, including places of birth, and where they resided at the time of my birth. :Information on chosen occupations, certifications, honors, military service :Any information on my birth grandparents ages/ethnic backgrounds/religion/occupations/education :All other non-identifying information including hobbies, talents, and interests In addition, please examine my file to see if my biological mother and/or father placed there a consent form granting permission to disclose identifying information. Also, please check for contact permission/consent forms. After, you reply, please place this request in my file to indicate my full permission for contact. If the records of my adoption are no longer held by your organization, please be so kind as to inform me of where they are now stored. Thank you for your attention to my request. ===Adoption Registry=== Sign-up for any adoption reunion registry for your area (where you birth/adoption took place) Adoption registries may be available even if you live in a closed state. Do a general Google search for a registry in your area. These registries work by allowing for each member of the adoption triad to register in hopes that they'll be matched with someone else who might be searching for them. === Open Adoption Locations=== Check [[Space:Adoption_Angels_Resources_by_Location|Resources by Location]] and see if your adoption area is an open adoption area. If so, look in the links section of our project location resources pages and contact the local authority and order your original birth certificate (use the long form, not short form). ===DNA=== Get your DNA Tested. If you have known relatives get them tested too. If you don't know the names or other identifying information for members of your birth family, pursuing DNA testing is probably your best avenue for finding family. Once you've tested you can work with your DNA matches to piece together your family. WikiTree has wonderful tools for working with DNA. The more information on your limbs you have posted to WikiTree, the more your DNA connections will show. Here is a [[Space: DNA_Basics_for_Adoptees|DNA Basics for Adoptees]] page for more information on how to get started with DNA testing. You might also want to review our [[DNA_FAQ|DNA FAQ]]. === Internet/Social Media=== Start building your family tree online even if you don't know anything yet beyond yourself. WikiTree can be a great help by making your information available. When search engines like Google do searches WikiTree will place your information "out there" for others to find. Combined with our DNA features we're a great resource for finding DNA matches which can help you find your birth family. See [[Space:Adoptees:_How_to_Set_Up_Your_Profile|here]] for help on setting up your WikiTree profile. If you know the name(s) of your birthparents and their approximate age, it is usually pretty easy to find them using an online search. This may cost a small amount of money, but it's likely you can find them. See our [[Space:Adoption_Angels_Using_Social_Media_to_Search|Social Media Search Help Page]] with tips and helpful links for Facebook, Google+ and other social media. === Making Contact === === You === Once you have found contact information for a member of your birth family, consider how to approach them and what you might say to them. It might not be the best idea to turn up on their doorstep as eager or anxious you might be. Some people need time to digest information and you don’t want to overwhelm them. It's good to be mindful that other family members may not have been told about you. The three most popular methods of contacting birth families are by phone, by letter, or by a third-party intermediary. The more sensitive you are in your approach to this, the better chance you have of establishing a lasting relationship with them. === Them === Remember, like you, it is quite likely that your birth parents will have a variety of reactions and emotions when they hear from you. They could feel excited, nervous, guilty, surprised or all of that at some point . They might need some space and some time to manage these feelings. Remember also that while you may have given your decision to find your birth family a lot of thought, it might be new for them. It is possible that you are ahead of them in the process of working through how you feel. They may have unresolved feelings to work through. Try to be patient. You might find that your birth parents have stated they do not want to be contacted. Remember, their decision not to be contacted by you does not mean they feel negatively about you. There are any number of reasons that parents might not want to be contacted, including the emotional consequences it would have on both you and them. === Choosing Not to Search/Contact === While many adoptees choose to find their birth parents or family, it's certainly not uncommon to determine that you don't want to search for or contact your birth parents. You could have a number of reasons for feeling how you feel and each of them is legitimate. Deciding whether or not to search for your birth parents might be a relatively straightforward process, or might be more complicated and take a long time. After you find them, deciding to contact them can be equally straightforward or complex. Whatever you decide, it is important you make the decision that is best for you, and that you try to be ready for all of the possible outcomes. ==Finding Search Help== *Contact WikiTree's Adoption Angels by filling out an [https://www.wikitree.com/contact/adoption/ Adoption Angel Contact Form] *[https://www.facebook.com/groups/DNADetectives DNA Detectives on Facebook] offers lots of help and advice for anyone searching for biological family. == Other Resources == WikiTree Resources *[[Space:Adoptees:_How_to_Set_Up_Your_Profile|How to Set up Your Profile]] *[[Space:DNA_Basics_for_Adoptees|DNA Basics for Adoptees]] *[https://www.wikitree.com/contact/adoption/ Adoption Angel Contact Form] Outside Resources *[https://dna-explained.com/2019/06/27/identifying-unknown-parents-and-individuals-using-dna-matching/ Using DNA to identify birth parents by Roberta Estes] * [https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/adoption/adopt-assistance/ Child Welfare Information Gateway Adoption Assistance] * [http://www.americanadoptioncongress.org/beginners_search_checklist.php American Adoption Congress] * [http://www.americanadoptioncongress.org/docs/SUPPORT_GROUP_LIST_Table_-_May202014.pdf Adoption Support Groups] * [http://www.whiteoakfoundation.org/reunionwhiteoak.htm White Oak Foundation] * [http://DNAAdoptions.com DNAAdoptions.com] * [http://dobsearch.com DOBsearch.com]

[[Category: Adoption Angels Project]] [[Category:Adoption Resources]] You can use this page to find adoption resources by location. == Resources by Location == *https://adopteerightslaw.com/united-states-obc * [http://www.isrr.org/Reunions.html International Soundex Reunion Registry] ===Australia=== *[[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Australia_Adoption_Resources|Australia Adoption Resources]] === Canada === * [[Space:Alberta Adoption Resources|Alberta Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:British Columbia Adoption Resources|British Columbia Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Manitoba Adoption Resources|Manitoba Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Newfoundland and Labrador Adoption Resources|Newfoundland and Labrador Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:New Brunswick Adoption Resources|New Brunswick Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Northwest Territories Adoption Resources|Northwest Territories Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Nova Scotia Adoption Resources|Nova Scotia Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Nunavut Adoption Resources|Nunavut Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Ontario Adoption Resources|Ontario Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Prince Edward Island Adoption Resources|Prince Edward Island Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Quebec Adoption Resources|Quebec Adoption Resources]] **[[Space:Adoption_Angels:_French_Canadian_Research|French Canadian Research Help Page]] * [[Space:Saskatchewan Adoption Resources|Saskatchewan Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Yukon Adoption Resources|Yukon Adoption Resources]] === New Zealand === *[[Space:Adoption_Angels:_New_Zealand_Adoption_Resources|New Zealand Adoption Resources]] ===South Africa=== *[[Space:Adoption_Angels:_South_Africa_Adoption_Resources|South Africa Adoption Resources]] ===United Kingdom=== * [https://www.gov.uk/adoption-records UK Government - Adoption records] *[[Space:Adoption_Angels:_England_Adoption_Resources|England Adoption Resources]] *[[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Ireland_Adoption_Resources|Ireland Adoption Resources]] === United States === The laws regarding what information can be accessed by adoptees and who can access it varies from state to state. The laws also change often. The best way to get the most up to date information is to do an internet search as well as checking the vital records website for the state. You can also contact the vital records office for the state to ask them directly if you can gain access to your original birth certificate and/or adoption paperwork. Some states will only give you a redacted copy of your adoption paperwork (called non-identifying information). This is worth acquiring since it often has vital clues that can help your search. The three important items to find out if you can gain access to are: #Your original birth certificate naming your birth parents #Your adoption paperwork #If adoption paperwork isn't available, your non-identifying information packet Most states charge for copies of these documents. * [[Space:Alabama_Adoption_Resources|Alabama Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Alaska_Adoption_Resources|Alaska Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Arizona_Adoption_Resources|Arizona Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Arkansas_Adoption_Resources|Arkansas Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:California_Adoption_Resources|California Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Colorado_Adoption_Resources|Colorado Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Connecticut Adoption Resources|Connecticut Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Delaware Adoption Resources|Delaware Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:District_of_Columbia_Adoption_Resources|District of Columbia Resources]] * [[Space:Florida Adoption Resources|Florida Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Georgia Adoption Resources|Georgia Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Hawaii Adoption Resources|Hawaii Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Idaho Adoption Resources|Idaho Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Illinois Adoption Resources|Illinois Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Indiana Adoption Resources|Indiana Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Iowa_Adoption_Resources|Iowa Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Kansas Adoption Resources|Kansas Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Kentucky Adoption Resources|Kentucky Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Louisiana Adoption Resources|Louisiana Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Maine Adoption Resources|Maine Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Maryland Adoption Resources|Maryland Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Massachusetts Adoption Resources|Massachusetts Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Michigan Adoption Resources|Michigan Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Minnesota Adoption Resources|Minnesota Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Mississippi Adoption Resources|Mississippi Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Missouri Adoption Resources|Missouri Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Montana Adoption Resources|Montana Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Nebraska Adoption Resources|Nebraska Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Nevada Adoption Resources|Nevada Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:New Hampshire Adoption Resources|New Hampshire Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:New Jersey Adoption Resources|New Jersey Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:New Mexico Adoption Resources| New Mexico Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:New York Adoption Resources| New York Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:North Carolina Adoption Resources|North Carolina Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:North Dakota Adoption Resources| North Dakota Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Ohio Adoption Resources|Ohio Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Oklahoma Adoption Resources|Oklahoma Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Oregon Adoption Resources|Oregon Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Pennsylvania Adoption Resources|Pennsylvania Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Rhode Island Adoption Resources|Rhode Island Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:South Carolina_Adoption_Resources|South Carolina Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:South Dakota Adoption Resources|South Dakota Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Tennessee Adoption Resources|Tennessee Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Texas Adoption Resources|Texas Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Utah Adoption Resources|Utah Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Vermont Adoption Resources|Vermont Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Virginia_Adoption_Resources|Virginia Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Washington Adoption Resources|Washington Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:West Virginia Adoption Resources|West Virginia Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Wisconsin Adoption Resources|Wisconsin Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:Wyoming Adoption Resources|Wyoming Adoption Resources]] * [[Space:District_of_Columbia_Adoption_Resources|Washington, D.C. Adoption Resources]] ==Donor Children== *[[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Donor_Children_Resources|Donor Children Resources]]

[[Category:Adoption Resources]] This page is for tips and information on how adoptees can use Social Media to search for their birth families. == Facebook == === Tips === Before using Facebook, research should already have taken place so you have names and possible residence locations to look for. Facebook is a great place to search for family. By searching for their name or even just a surname you can search through many matches that come up. From these matches you can sometimes see photos, even if only profile photos, to see if you have a likeness to them or their family. Facebook also has the great feature of denoting who a friend is in the family whether it’s a parent, siblings, grandparent, aunt/uncle, or cousin. This will help you find more information about the person if any of the names sound familiar to you or to DNA matches you may have. Facebook also allows you the ability to message them to ask for more details if you feel they might be the one(s) you are looking for. Another option to use on Facebook is to create a Facebook Page for your adoption search. You can put certain information on the page to help draw attention to your search. This is also helpful if the adoptee or birth family are searching for you. === Helpful Adoption Pages/Groups === There are many pages/groups on Facebook dedicated to helping adoptees find their birth families. Here are the ones we have found so far (if you know of any others, please add them!): :* [http://www.dnaadoption.com/?fref=nf DNAAdoption.com] (website) :* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/DNADetectives/?ref=bookmarks DNA Detectives] (group) :* [https://www.facebook.com/DnaAdoption/?fref=nf DNAAdoption Community] (page) :* [https://www.facebook.com/DNAGedcom/?fref=nf DNAGedcom] (page) :* [https://www.facebook.com/adoptiondna/ Adoption and DNA] (page) :* [https://www.facebook.com/AdopteeRightsCoalition/?fref=nf Adoptee Rights] (page) :* [https://www.facebook.com/adoptionrightsnow/posts/1160686520628206?fref=nf Adoption Rights Now] (page) :* [https://www.facebook.com/AdoptionSearchTips/ Adoption Search Tips] (page) :* [https://www.facebook.com/Adoption-Genealogy-514354208687246/ Adoption Genealogy] (page) :* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/searchelpers/ Search Squad] (group) :* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AdopteeCentral/ Adoptee Central] (group) === Helpful DNA Pages/Groups === There are many groups on Facebook dedicated to helping with DNA. Here are the ones we have found so far (if you know of any others, please add them!): :* [https://www.facebook.com/23andMe/?fref=nf 23andMe] (page) :* [https://www.facebook.com/FamilyTreeDNA/?fref=nf Family Tree DNA] (page) :* [https://www.facebook.com/DNAexplain/?fref=nf DNA Explain] (page) :* [https://www.facebook.com/DNATestingAdviser/?fref=nf DNA Testing Adviser] (page) :* [https://www.facebook.com/DNAtribes/?fref=nf DNA Tribes] (page) :* [https://www.facebook.com/knowyourgenome/?fref=nf DNA.Land] (page) :* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/03guillaume/ Autosomal DNA] (group) :* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/DNATools/ DNA Tools] (group) :* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/161126313940147/ 23andMe Newbies] (group) :* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AncestryGEDmatchFTDNA23andMeGenealogyDNA/ Ancestry GEDmatch FTDNA 23andMe Genealogy DNA] (group) :* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/DNADetectives/?ref=bookmarks DNA Detectives] (group) ==Other Social Media Options== There are many other Social Media options available to search for possible birth family. : LinkedIn : Instagram--which would have lots of photos to comb through. This may be a little harder to search as some don’t add their actual names to their account. : Family blogs == Google Search == Searching on Google correctly can give you many avenues to find information on an adoptee or birth family. Using “ “ (quotation marks) around a name will enable the search to look for just those names. Sometimes this works great unless the information found in a search doesn’t account for a possible middle name being used. Adding a + (plus symbol) in front of a year and/or location will add that to the search. Try different search parameters to get different results until you find what you are looking for. If you want to reduce your search results to exclude a parameter include a - (minus symbol) in front of the word.

[[Category: Adoption Angels Project]] ---- Welcome to the Adoption Angels! Being a part of this project is one of the most rewarding things you could ever imagine. The first questions new Adoption Angels often ask are How do I get started and How does this all work? ---- ==How Do I get Started== #Read the '''[[Project:Adoption_Angels#Mission_Statement|Mission Statement]]''' to understand what Adoption Angels do and do not do. #See the links below to see what activities each role does within Adoption Angels. You will be required to choose one of the two roles. Once your replies are received, you will receive the AA badge, and you will be added to the private [https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/wt-angels-discussion Adoption Angels Google Group], the applications group (this is read-only), and the Google spreadsheet called the Adoption Angels Tracker. Please read the How-To tab on the tracker to understand how to use it. ===Angel Roles=== *'''[[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Mentors_Space|Adoption Angels Mentors]]''' greet all new applicants, answering questions and helping them make sure they are set up and ready for their search with a Family Finder. They answer questions in g2g. *'''[[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Family_Finders_Space|Adoption Angels Family Finders]]''' do the work alongside the adoptee to actively search for the biological family. They use both DNA and traditional research. Help Pages for Adoptees: *[[Space:Adoption_Angels_Basic_Search_Help|Basic Search Help]] *[[Space:Adoptees:_How_to_Set_Up_Your_Profile|How to Set Up Your Profile]] *[[Space:DNA_Basics_for_Adoptees|DNA Basics for Adoptees]] Many of these help pages have links to additional help pages ==How Does Adoption Angels Work?== #Adoptees (and other cases of unknown parentage) fill out an Adoption Angel help request form. #All request forms are automatically posted in the AA Applications Google group. You will have access to this Google group so you can read the applications as needed. #After weeding out duplicates, the project leader adds the applicants's name to the Mentor list on the AA Progress Tracker (spreadsheet). #A Mentor Angel will greet the applicants as they come in. They will send a form letter with several help links asking that each applicant has the information they need to make searches more efficient. The Mentor will work with the applicant until they are ready for the next step. (see the Mentor help page for this process) #Family Finders will check the waiting list of those applicants who are ready for cases they feel they can help. (see the Family Finder help page for this process) #Once completing the search, Family Finders send a [[Space:Adoption_Angels:_Close_Out_Procedure|closing report]] to the Project Leader which includes a DNA map if applicable. #When you have found the birth relative for your first case, you will receive an [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Badges&b=earned_wings Angels Wings Badge].

[[Category: United States Adoption Resources]] [[Category:Alabama]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:28, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Alabama is an "open state" as of 2015.''' "An adult adoptee can get an original birth certificate and in some instances more adoption record information." This page is for Alabama resources to aid adoptees seeking information on their birth families/histories. ==Original birth certificate== Upon finalization of an adoption a new birth certificate for the child is usually issued to the adoptive parents. The original birth certificate is sealed and then kept confidential by the State registrar of vital records. In many states the laws are changing to allow easier access. The state of Alabama '''does''' make original birth certificates to adoptees once they've reached the age of 19. To obtain a copy of your birth certificate, visit [http://www.adph.org/vitalrecords/index.asp?id=1559 here]. For more information on Alabama and adoptions visit their [http://adph.org/vitalrecords/index.asp?id=1563 adoption information help page.] ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Category:Alaska]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:27, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Alaska is an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Category:Arizona]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] ---- The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:29, 21 August 2020 (UTC) '''Arizona is an not "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Category:Arkansas]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:30, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Arkansas is an not "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Category:California]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:33, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''California is not an "open state" as of 2015.''' ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== You may apply for your non-identifying information. [https://www.cdss.ca.gov/adoption-services/adoptee-information/adoptee-background Click on this link for more information] ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project== "Records are open on a County by County basis in California and not on a statewide basis." [http://www.courts.ca.gov/1220.htm California Courts FAQs] [http://www.cdph.ca.gov/certlic/birthdeathmar/pages/certifiedcopiesofbirthdeathrecords.aspx Birth, Death and Marriage] [http://www.cdph.ca.gov/certlic/birthdeathmar/Documents/BirthAmendmentCheatSheet-(2).pdf Birth Amendments] [http://www.cdph.ca.gov/certlic/birthdeathmar/pages/certifiedcopiesofbirthdeathrecords.aspx Birth, Death and Marriage]

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Category:Colorado]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:35, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Colorado is an "open state" as of 2015''', "Adoptions records are open for adoptees whose adoptions were finalized between 07/01/1951 to 06/30/1967 and 09/01/1999 to present. All adoption records will open (original birth certificates available) on 01/01/2016." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Category:Connecticut]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:35, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Connecticut is an "open state" for adoptions finalized after 10/01/1983''', "an adult adoptee can get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Category:Delaware]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:36, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Delaware is an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can get an original birth certificate, however, birth parents can sign a no contact veto." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] It is important to read through all the links before attempting to gather information from the Washington, DC courts. Rules are different for those born before 1937 and for those born after 1937. Always make sure to request the Non Identifying Information Report before attempting to contact a court for more information. ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project== ==Links== * https://gregoryluce.com/dc-adoption-records-petition/ This is an insider's view of how things work or don't work well in Washington, DC courts dealing with adoption. Read this first. Here is an excerpt from the document. There are additional points and examples of how to fill out forms as well. *It’s a terrible strategic move to ask directly for reunion or contact through the D.C. court petition. As I’ve repeated before ad nauseum, search and reunion is distinct from your right to receive identifying information. If you seek reunion, you may sidetrack the court and get nothing. If you focus only on identifying information, you stand a much better chance of actually getting that information. And what you then do with that information is simply a different question. Capisce? No? If you don’t understand, re-read my prior post here. *It will be expensive. The court’s filing fee is $80, and the “search” fee charged by the agency is typically $500 (except in some limited circumstances, by D.C. regulation it cannot be more than $500). *https://adoptiondatabase.quickbase.com/db/7c2gsmqv?a=q&qid=99 This is a link to a database of adoptees or birth families looking for adoptees from the Washington, DC area. *https://adopteerightslaw.com/district-columbia-obc/ Link to DC adoption court info. *https://www.dcd.uscourts.gov/adoption-petitions Link to see existing adoption petitions or to make a new one. ===Birth Certificates=== *Adult adoptees in the District of Columbia do not have access to their original birth certificates, except by court order. The D.C. superior court controls all aspects of releasing an OBC or any identifying information, whether from court records or from vital records. Original birth certificates and adoption court records for adoptions initiated prior to September 1, 1937, however, should be accessible by an adoptee without a court order. *Prior to September 14, 1956, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia had jurisdiction to hear and decide adoption petitions in the District of Columbia. Accordingly, adoptees who were born and adopted prior to 1956 likely have court records on file with the federal court in DC, not with the DC Superior Court. Adoptions initiated prior to 1937, however, are considered public records and should be available and on file with the court. *Petitions to break the seal for records for adoptions between 1937 and 1956 must be made to U.S. District Court. More information is available on the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia website here. ===Marriages=== *https://www.familysearch.org/wiki/en/District_of_Columbia_Vital_Records *Records for marriages start in 1811 *There are pay sites with information but this is a free index https://www.familysearch.org/search/collection/1803979

[[Category:Adoption Resources]] [[Category:DNA]] [[Project:DNA|DNA Project]] ---- [http://www.grandmasgenes.com/betty-jeans-whole-adoption-search/ Betty Jean's Adoption Search]. This blog series (by WikiTreer Mags Gaulden, Grandma's Genes) might be helpful as she covers how to use WikiTree in an adoption search. ---- DNA quite plainly is what makes us ''us.'' It's the blueprint by which we are built. There are three basic types of DNA tests for genealogical purposes: # [[Y-Chromosome DNA Tests]] for direct paternal lines. # [[Mitochondrial DNA Tests]] for direct maternal lines. # [[Autosomal DNA Tests]] ([http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-3382244-12374685-1445621191000 23andMe], [http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-3382244-11420136 AncestryDNA], [https://affiliate.familytreedna.com/idevaffiliate.php?id=600 Family Tree DNA Family Finder], [http://www.myheritage.com/dna?utm_source=partner_wikitree&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=wikitree_nov16_dnasale&tr_funnel=mh+dna My Heritage]) that are relevant for your entire genetic inheritance for roughly five to seven generations.  More distant auDNA connections are less reliable. These are the most popular and least expensive tests (about $99 with AncestryDNA and FT DNA). [[X-Chromosome DNA Tests|X-chromosome]] results are now included with autosomal tests. * [[DNA_FAQ|DNA and WikiTree FAQ]] ''Click on the links above for more information about specific tests and see below for and overview of each test with information on results.'' ---- =='''What DNA Testing can do for you, the adoptee/birth relative.'''== Finding someone who matches your DNA who knows ''their'' genealogy could tell you about ''your'' genealogy. The closer the relationship between you and your DNA match the closer you are to knowing your family connection. It's a little more involved, but that is the basic premise. Build your own 'likely' trees as much as you can working with genetic matches until you can identify some common genetic ancestors DNA is measured generally in a genealogical time frame - Generations or by the mutations that happen over time. :In''' yDNA''', a genetic difference of 4 would mean there were four mutations between the two men which would put their common ancestor probably back a few hundred years. (In yDNA, each number difference is one mutation, so if one DYS marker is 8 and the other is 10, there were two mutations on that marker). :In '''mtDNA''' you might also see this information listed in mutations, meaning a match of 0 has no mutational differences from you, a mutation difference of -3 means you have three mutation differences from them a 3 means they have three mutations from you. Just make sure when you are looking at your results you know which one you are looking at, generations or mutations. :For '''auDNA''', when you get your results you will see your genetic distance from your match in generations. So a genetic distance of 4 would put your connection to your match at 4 generations back from you, or your shared great great grand whatever (which isn't a great help but it's a step in the right direction). ===Fathers Line YDNA=== Direct Paternal Line - this would be your your biological father's paternal line of forefathers. So, your father, then his father, then his father, then his father, etc. * For men only. Earle Gaulden's [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:DNATests&u=6922450&id=8 YDNA connections] on WikiTree. To get to yours from your profile go over to the right side of your profile page where it says "DNA Tested", then click on the words "DNA has been tested". This will take you to your DNA Tests Page. Under each test there will be the words, "Test details URL:", click on the link and you will see your DNA test connections. ===Mothers Line mtDNA=== Direct Maternal Line - this would be your biological Mothers, Mothers, Mothers, Mothers, Mothers Line. *For Women and Men M. Gaulden's [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:DNATests&u=6921504&id=6 mtDNA connections] on WikiTree. To get to yours from your profile go over to the right side of your profile page where it says "DNA Tested", then click on the words "DNA has been tested". this will take you to your DNA Tests Page. Under each test there will be the words, "Test details URL:", click on the link and you will see your DNA test connections. You can also see an [https://www.wikitree.com/treewidget/Gaulden-7/89 Ahnentafel mtDNA Ancestor list] for your results by clicking on Family Tree & Tools Tools, scroll down to DNA Ancestors and click on it. Another way would be from your My WikiTree drop down menu, scroll to and click DNA Confirmation, then click on DNA Ancestors from the menu bar across the top. ===General Family Lines auDNA & xDNA=== ====Autosomal==== Entire Genetic Inheritance - Autosomal DNA is a term used in genetic genealogy to describe DNA which is inherited from the autosomal chromosomes. An autosome is any of the numbered chromosomes, as opposed to the sex chromosomes. Humans have 22 pairs of autosomes and one pair of sex chromosomes (the X chromosome and the Y chromosome).[http://www.isogg.org/wiki/Autosomal_DNA ISOGG Autosomal DNA] *For Men and Women. M. Gaulden's [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:DNATests&u=6921504&id=7 auDNA connections] on WikiTree. To get to yours from your profile go over to the right side of your profile page where it says "DNA Tested", then click on the words "DNA has been tested". this will take you to your DNA Tests Page. Under each test there will be the words, "Test details URL:", click on the link and you will see your DNA test connections. Another way would be from your My WikiTree drop down menu, scroll to and click DNA Confirmation, then click on DNA Tests from the menu bar across the top. WikiTree's DNA tools create a surname list for you that is nice visual representation of the auDNA connections. [https://www.wikitree.com/treewidget/Gaulden-7/10 M. Gaulden's Surname list] and [https://www.wikitree.com/treewidget/Cooper-1/10 Kitty Smith's Surname list]. ====X==== A sex chromosome. A female child receives one X-chromosome from her father and one X-chromosome from her mother. A male child receives an X-chromosome only from his mother. *For Women and Men. M. Gaulden's [https://www.wikitree.com/treewidget/Gaulden-7/89 Ahnentafel xDNA connections] on WikiTree. You can see yours by clicking on Family Tree & Tools Tools, scroll down to DNA Ancestors and click on it. Another way would be from your My WikiTree drop down menu, scroll to and click DNA Confirmation, then click on DNA Ancestors from the menu bar across the top. ===Ordering or Recommending a Test=== If you plan to order a test for yourself, or would like to recommend that a family member or friend be tested, please use one of these URLs. This way WikiTree gets the referral credit. * 23andMe: http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-3382244-12374685-1445621191000 * Ancestry.com DNA: http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-3382244-10467608 * Family Tree DNA: http://www.familytreedna.com/cj.aspx?ftdna_ref=600 * My Heritage: http://www.myheritage.com/dna?utm_source=partner_wikitree&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=wikitree_nov16_dnasale&tr_funnel=mh+dna ::Thanks! =='''Posting Your Results Everywhere'''== ===Your Results Are In, Posting Your Results=== Notice how I didn't say anything about understanding your results. Your test results will show many things. Have fun looking at your ethnic make-up and enjoy the Origins map showing the route your ancestors took out of Africa. If you took a y/mtDNA test you will also know your Haplogroup (see link to Glossary below). This is all fun, but lets get down to business. You will want to post your results to a few different places. ====WikiTree==== Since your genealogy is on WikiTree, you will want to add your DNA tests so that WikiTree can work its magic by automatically making DNA Connections to all of your known Ancestors. To add your tests from your profile, go over to the right side of your profile page where it says "DNA Has Not Been Tested", then click on the words "Add DNA Test". This will take you to your DNA Tests Page where you can Add, Edit or Delete Tests. Another way would be from your My WikiTree drop down menu; scroll to and click DNA Confirmation, then click on DNA Tests from the menu bar across the top. WikiTree does '''''not''''' upload raw data - just the specific tests you have taken. Some of the other sites listed below have the option of uploading a GEDCOM (a genealogy file formatted to be easily transferred between systems/computers). This can be helpful to others as they will be able to see your tree in simple form. [[Special:DownloadGedcom|Download a GEDCOM file of your limbs on WikiTree]]. ====Y-Search==== [http://www.ysearch.org/ Ysearch.org] This is where you will post your yDNA results. Create an account and follow their directions for getting your raw data file from your testing company and follow their directions for uploading your raw data file. You will also find it helpful to upload your GEDCOM file to their site as this will help others determine your connection. Follow their directions for doing this as well. [[Special:DownloadGedcom|Download a GEDCOM file of your limbs on WikiTree]]. ====Mitosearch==== [http://www.mitosearch.org/ Mitosearch.org] This is where you will post your mtDNA results. Create an account and follow their directions for getting your raw data file from your testing company and follow their directions for uploading your raw data file. You will also find it helpful to upload your GEDCOM file to their site as this will help others determine your connection. Follow their directions for doing this as well. [[Special:DownloadGedcom|Download a GEDCOM file of your limbs on WikiTree]]. ====GEDmatch==== [http://v2.gedmatch.com/login1.php GEDmatch.com] This is where you will post your auDNA results. Create an account and follow their directions for getting your raw data file from your testing company and follow their directions for uploading your raw data file. You will also find it helpful to upload your GEDCOM file to their site as this will help others determine your connection. Follow their directions for doing this as well. [[Special:DownloadGedcom|Download a GEDCOM file of your limbs on WikiTree]]. Tier 1 Utilities - For a one-time donation of any amount, or the 'Join GEDmatch' button to establish a recurring $10 per month amount. Will give you the following Utilities: *Matching Segment Search - Find other kits with segments that match yours. *Relationship Tree projection *Lazarus - Create surrogate kits to represent close ancestors *Triangulation - Identify and confirm triangulation groups (TG) from your matches. ====Promethease==== [https://www.promethease.com/ Promethease] Promethease is a literature retrieval system that builds a personal DNA report based on connecting a file of DNA genotypes to the scientific findings cited in [http://www.snpedia.com/index.php/SNPedia SNPedia]. Biomedical researchers, healthcare practitioners and customers of DNA testing services (such as 23andMe, Ancestry.com, FamilyTreeDNA, etc.) use Promethease to retrieve information published about their DNA variations. Most reports cost $5 and are produced in under 10 minutes. Much larger data files (such as imputed full genomes from dna.land) cost $10 and have increased runtime. Your report will remain anonymous. ====DNA.Land==== [https://dna.land/ DNA.Land ] This is where you can post your auDNA results. Create an account and follow their directions for getting your raw data file from your testing company and follow their directions for uploading your raw data file. You will also find it helpful to upload your GEDCOM file to their site as this will help others determine your connection. Follow their directions for doing this as well. [[Special:DownloadGedcom|Download a GEDCOM file of your limbs on WikiTree]]. ==Using WiiTree to make DNA Connections== You have your test information posted to WikiTree, now what can you do to make those famous WikiTree connections? {{Image|file=Abby_s_Tools-40.jpg |align=r |size=m |caption= }}
===Tags=== Tags are a way for members to: # follow activity in the topics that interest them, and # ''connect'' with other genealogists who share the same interests. You can [[Special:Following|enter tags to follow here]]. Many of the commonly followed tags are surnames, e.g. {{Tag|SMITH}} and {{Tag|JONES}}. Tags can also be locations, e.g. {{Tag|NEW_BRUNSWICK}}, or for special projects, e.g {{Tag|DNA}} and {{Tag|EUROARISTO}}. When you're following a tag you're alerted to new activity through your daily "[[Activity_Feeds#Wiki_Genealogy_Feed|Wiki Genealogist Feed]]" e-mail updates. The updates include WikiTree activity in followed surnames, [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/tags tagged G2G discussions], and new members who added the tag. ===Create a DNA Section on Your Profile page=== Once your test results are posted ''everywhere'' you are going to start receiving emails from others who are matches to you - or to kits you manage. Instead of creating a stock message to send out - every situation is different - create a DNA section on your profile page, or the profile page for a kit you manage, and post your information. ====My Surnames==== Create an alphabetical surname list. Identify your maternal and paternal surnames using a color background as as shown below. ''Clicking on the name(s) will take you to my, known most distant ancestor blue is paternal and pink is Maternal side'': : [[Allen-12471 | '''A'''llen]], [[Amphlett-11 |Amphlett]], [[Arnold-5224|Arnold]], [[Anderson-20031|Anderson]], [[Anderson-15892|Anderson]], [[Anthony-1017|Anthony]], [[Ashwell-88|Ashwell]], [[Atwood-1266|Atwood]] :[[Bacon-2404|'''B'''acon]], [[Ballentine-100|Ballentine]], [[Barnard-1356|Barnard]], [[Bates-374|Bates]], [[Bell-1789|Bell]], [[Berrong-15|Berrong]], [[Bobo-108|Bobo]], [[Bowen-2215|Bowen]], [[Dillard-739|Brown]], [[Brewer-575|Brewer]], [[Brumfield-176|Brumfield]], [[Bullfinch-1|Bullfinch]], [[Burfoote-1|Burfoote]], [[Burford-89|Burford]] ====Pedigree Chart==== *[https://www.wikitree.com/genealogy/Gaulden-Family-Tree-7 Pedigree Chart] {{Image|file=Mags_Photo_Shoebox-39.png |align=c |size=m |caption=Click for larger image. }} * [http://www.genealogy.com/articles/research/16_cousn.html What is a second cousin?] ====FTDNA Family Finder Connections, auDNA==== * [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:DNATests&u=6921504&id=6 Mags family finder connections] ====FTDNA mtDNA and xDNA Ancestors==== ====FTDNA mtDNA Connections==== ====My Haplogroup Information==== =====mtDNA===== =====Gaulden===== =====Templeton===== =====Hunt===== =====Dillard===== =====Crisp===== =====WikiTree Specifc DNA Connections===== ======DNA Matches on Wikitree who are not connected====== ======Confirmed DNA Cousins on WikiTree====== ===Create your own WikiTree DNA Sandbox=== *[[Space:WikiTree_DNA_Sandbox|WikiTree DNA Sandbox]] ====DNA Sandbox Directions==== *Cut and paste the headings from the WikiTree DNA sandbox into your own DNA Sandbox. *Use this sandbox to work on your DNA Matches to find the pattern in the DNA. ::Group unknown familial surnames together. As familial surname connections become obvious create surname sections for that familial surname. Move unknown familial Surname connected DNA Matches sections into familial surnames sections as the familial surnames are discovered. *Follow the example below. ''Listing Chromosomes with segment matches gives a quick glance overview of Chromosomes within familial surname groups in the Table of Contents.'' ::Chromosome's that connect to a specific family will become obvious, I quick review of matching segments can be made visually to identify overlapping segments between matches within a familial surname section. * Add other information you find helpful, do it your way! Make this a one stop shop for information at your fingertips accessible anywhere you have internet to access WikiTree. ::Privacy settings should be set to prevent personal information from being seen by anyone other than you or family members/Genealogists who are collaborating with you on DNA. DO NOT PUBLICLY POST PERSONAL INFORMATION. ==Workbooks, Spreadsheets and Emails== Whether you are old school or a geek with the fastest and newest computer you have to keep track of all the overflow of information you will be receiving once you get your results and once they are "out" there. ===Workbooks=== Old School and still in. Keeping a written record of your matches, emails and information works. Make sure, though, that you have your workbook organized well and that it has space for expansion. ===Emails=== You will be sending a lot of emails to people who match you. Set-up your email program with a folder called DNA then break that folder up into sub folders in whatever way works for you. Be sure to move your emails into these folders after you have read them. Going through your entire inbox to find an email about a specific person after the fact is grueling even with search capabilities. You could set up an email address specifically to use for contacting people regarding their DNA. Gmail offers free accounts, as do others. Set up the email ''before'' you order any tests. Then use it for the testing sites as well as registering with Gedmatch and other reporting sites. This allows you to maintain anonymity as well as allowing you an easier way to keep your DNA emails separate from your primary personal email. ===Spreadsheets=== Spreadsheets work great at doing a lot of things with your DNA results. Why? Because DNA results are numbers. If you have one of the many Spreadsheet programs great, if not you can find free ones by searching "Open Source Spreadsheet program". Online spreadsheets are also a good way to work AND you can share your spreadsheets with others looking - if you want to do that. Always keep in mind that most people you match with will appreciate you not posting their information publically. * Create a sheet for your data and geek out by adding others results to compare against yours. This works especially well if you join a DNA study and you want to compare mutations side-by-side. * Create a sheet to keep track of all of your matches. * Use a spreadsheet to keep track of who you have emailed, when and if they have replied. In all of the above you will want to be mindful of the columns you use, Contact Name, Contact Last Name, Match Name, Match Last Name, Relationship To You, Birth Date, Birth Location, Mothers Name, Fathers Name, Residence Location, Match cM, Chromosome #, SNP's, Generation #, Kit or #, Gedmatch #, Y-Search #, Mitosearch #, Most Distant Ancestor (MDA) Connection, MDA DOB, MDA POB, Other Kits who match, Name, Shared cM, Chromosome, Generation and whatever else makes sense to you. PLUS you are not limited, you can always add columns later. ==Analyzing the Data== ===Triangulation=== Genetic triangulation is rather simple. Think of a triangle. /_\ :Person A & B match genetically and that forms the base of the triangle. _ :Person A has a paper trail (genealogy) that goes back in time. / :Person B has a paper trail that goes back in time. \ :The top of the triangle is the MRCA or most recent common ancestor.[http://www.isogg.org/wiki/Triangulation Triangulation from International Society of Genetic Genealogy Wiki] Triangulation refers to a group of three individuals (they shouldn't be closely related like 1-2 generations) that are all matching at the same locus (location on a chromosome) with overlapping matching segments between them (they can start/end sometimes earlier or later than with others in the group but they must overlap). Triangulation is the only method to identify an ancestral segment that was given down from a common ancestor that all individual in this one triangulation group are descendants from. How triangulation can help? In a simpler terms: #Find your closest matches. #Find who they are in common with (ICW), AND if they also match each other on those overlapping segments. (Remember that there are 2 sides to a chromosome so some of these ICWs may be maternal and some paternal). #Work the ancestral trees of those overlapping AND matching ICWs (both linearly and laterally) to find their common ancestor. #Somewhere in the descendants of that common ancestor will be your family also. * [http://www.isogg.org/wiki/Triangulation#The_basics_of_triangulation_for_Y-DNA_testing The basics of Triangulation for Y-DNA] *[http://www.isogg.org/wiki/Triangulation#Autosomal_DNA Triangulation for Autosomal DNA * [http://www.genetic-inference.co.uk/blog/2009/11/how-many-ancestors-share-our-dna/ How many Ancestors share our DNA?] * [http://gcbias.org/2013/11/04/how-much-of-your-genome-do-you-inherit-from-a-particular-ancestor/ How much of your genome do you inherit from a particular ancestor?] ===Charts=== * [http://thegeneticgenealogist.com/2008/12/21/unlocking-the-genealogical-secrets-of-the-x-chromosome/ xDNA Chart for Men and Women from Blaine Bettinger] ''Unlocking the Genealogical Secrets of the X Chromosome'', Blaine Bettinger, December 21, 2008, ''The Genetic Genealogist''. Used by permission. {{Image|file=Mags_Photo_Shoebox-55.jpg |align=c |size=m |caption=xDNA Inheritance Percentages Chart. }} {{Image|file=Mags_Photo_Shoebox-53.jpg |align=l |size=s |caption=Male xDNA Inheritance, click for larger image and print to fill in. }} {{Image|file=Mags_Photo_Shoebox-54.jpg |align=c |size=s |caption=Female xDNA Inheritance Chart, Click for larger image and print to fill in. }} * auDNA Chart Thank you to Genealogy.About.com for this perfect family tree that I have used to explain some different DNA tests.[http://genealogy.about.com/od/free_charts/ig/genealogy_charts/fan_chart.htm auDNA Fan Chart] {{Image|file=Mags_Photo_Shoebox-1.png |align=c |size=m |caption=auDNA fan Chart, click for larger image. }} ===Free Space Profiles=== *[[Space:WikiTree_DNA_Sandbox|DNA and Adoption Free Space/DNA Sandbox]] Free Space profiles work great and can be privacy protected so you can put all your WikiTree and outside matches together in one place. ===Analyzing from Birth Family side of adoption=== You are a birth parent or relative and you are trying to find your family member using DNA Create a spreadsheet of all your family matches and add the following information or any variation you find works: Contact Name, Last Name, First Name, Relationship To You, Birth Date, Birth Location, Mothers Name, Fathers Name, Residence Location, Match cM, Chromosome #, SNP's, Generation #, Kit or #, Gedmatch #, Y-Search #, Mitosearch #, Most Distant Ancestor Connection, MDA DOB, MDA POB, Other Kits who match, Name, Shared cM, Chromosome, Generation. ===Analyzing when you have adoption connections=== You know your birth family, but adoptees or their relative(s) contact you because you match them. Make a spreadsheet of all your adoptee matches and add the following information or any variation you find works: Contact Name, Last Name, First Name, Who, Birth Mothers Name, Birth Fathers Name, Birth Date, Birth Location, Adoption Date, Adoption Location, Adoptive Name, Adoptive Mothers Name, Adoptive Fathers Name, Residence Location, Match cM, Chromosome #, SNP's, Generation #, Kit or #, Gedmatch #, Y-Search #, Mitosearch #, Story, Most Distant Ancestor Connection, MDA DOB, MDA POB, Other Kits who match, Name, Shared cM, Chromosome, Generation. Once you have as much information as you can find on them, do a sort of the data by the Chromosomes. Then pull up the spread sheet you have made for your known connections also sorted by Chromosome. Then compare the two lists and see if any of your known DNA matches fall on the same chromosome of your Adoptee matches. ==WikiTree G2G DNA and Adoption Questions== * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/175481/adoptee-best-way-to-use-dna Adoptee, best way to use DNA?] * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/112523/dna-test-to-help-female-adoptee-find-father DNA test to help a female adoptee find father?] * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/136250/can-adoptive-brother-have-his-dna-tree-has-other-known-family Can adoptive brother have his DNA on our tree? He has no other known family] * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/183753/are-23andme-ancestrydna-results-useless-dna-confirmation?show=183753#q183753 Are 23andMe and AncestryDNA results useless for DNA confirmation?] * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/189185/search-for-records-with-dna-matches?show=189185#q189185 Search for records with DNA matches] * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/184537/link-site-searching-for-birth-fathers-through-dna-research?show=184537#q184537 Link to site searching for birth fathers through DNA Research] * [[Space:Adoption_and_DNA|Adoption and DNA - Great page of links by WikiTreer Debby Black]] * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/175418/mentors-trying-understand-confirmation-wikitree-citations?show=175418#q175418 Mentors Tips - Trying to understand DNA confirmations and WikiTree? Part I] * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/175437/understand-confirmation-wikitree-genetic-genealogy-befuddled Mentors Tips - Trying to understand DNA confirmation and WikiTree? Part II - Does Genetic Genealogy have you befuddled?] * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/175621/mentors-tips-trying-understand-wikitree-part-useful-links Mentors Tips - Trying to understand DNA confirmation and WikiTree? Part III -Useful links] ==DNA Resources== * [http://www.dnaadoption.com DNAadoption.com - Using DNA to help you find answers]. *[http://www.dnaadoption.com/index.php?page=first-look First Look Intro Classes] Free online classes: "The First Look classes are designed to help people get started using and understanding their Autosomal DNA results with FamilyTreeDNA, 23andMe, Ancestry and Gedmatch. This is a basic, entry level course." ==Programs for DNA work== * [https://genomemate.org/ Genome Mate Pro] Use this to plot the chromosomes for each match and yourself. You can import data from all the key sites into one place eliminating the need to access multiple sites all the time. *[https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/ancestrydna-helper/hjflmfphflaeehhpdiggobllgffelfee?hl=en-US Ancestry DNA Helper Extension] An extension used in conjunction with Google Chrome Browser. The extension helps with analyzing and comparing your AncestryDNA test results. This extension downloads list of matching users and ancestor information. * [http://dnagedcom.com/ DNAGedcom.com] This site helps you identify triangulated matches from Gedmatch and FTDNA. It's a good site to get a visual on triangulated groups. The combination of Genome Mate , Gedmatch, and DNAGedcom is unbeatable for helping identify and track your segments and matches. *[http://genealogypuzzlesdna.blogspot.ca/2014/03/using-chrome-tool-529andyou.html 529andyou] A Google Chrome add-on for collecting 23andMe data. This links takes you to Genealogy Puzzles DNA Blogspot for how to download both Chrome and the add-on. ==DNA Coursework== * [http://www.DNAadoption.com DNA Adoption.com] ==DNA Articles== * [http://www.familysleuther.org/2015/12/family-mystery-part-iv-dna-doesnt-lie.html Family Sleuther:Family Mystery Part IV: DNA Doesn't Lie] ==Glosary of Terms== [http://www.isogg.org/wiki/Genetics_Glossary ISOGG Genetics Glossary] ==Sources==

[[Category:DNA]][[Category: Adoption Resources]] ==DNA and You== The following information is general. Parts of it may not apply to you or the location you live in/were born in. This information will be updated to the best of our ability, but DNA tests and information about DNA/tests change often. ==Three basic types of DNA tests== *'''Autosomal DNA or AuDNA''': the kind of DNA we all inherit from both of our parents, that changes not only in every generation but every time a child is created (which is why siblings don’t have identical autosomal DNA). *'''Y-DNA''': the kind of DNA that only men have and that’s passed from father to son to son basically unchanged through the generations. For male adoptees, this test can be very useful in determining the identity of the birth father as well as separating DNA matches that are paternal from maternal matches. So, if you are initially searching for your birth mother, any matches you have from YDNA would not be investigated. On the other hand, if you are trying to identify your birth father, you can be confident that all your YDNA matches are paternal matches. FTDNA is the only company that provides a comprehensive Y-DNA test. *'''Mitochondrial DNA, or mtDNA''': a kind of DNA we all have that’s passed down from a mother to all of her children but that only her daughters can pass on to their children, again largely unchanged through the generations. FTDNA is the only company that provides a comprehensive mtDNA test. ==Which Test Do I Take?== *If money is very tight and you can only purchase one test, we would suggest the '''Ancestry.com''' test. Why? A larger percent of their population has family trees. And in order to work more efficiently on your search, you will need family trees to compare with. *If you are purchasing more than one test, we would recommend testing in this order. ::Note: #1-5 are Autosomal (AuDNA) tests #Ancestry.com (members have trees) #FTDNA.com (members have trees) {upload for free from Ancestry and pay a small fee to use their advanced DNA tools. Matches and their trees are free. No need to test separately} #My Heritage (members have trees) {upload for free from Ancestry and pay an unlock fee. No need to test separately} #23andMe #Living DNA (This test is especially good for those with British ancestry, however currently you may get very few to zero matches) #FTDNA Y-DNA test for males only *Once you have your test results, see the "Now What section" for how to stretch your dollars with these tests '''Ordering or Recommending a Test''' If you plan to order a test for yourself, or would like to recommend that a family member or friend be tested, please use one of these URLs. The cost is the same to you, but WikiTree will get the referral credit. :[http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-3382244-12374685-1445621191000 23andMe] :[http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-3382244-10467608 Ancestry.com DNA] :[http://www.familytreedna.com/cj.aspx?ftdna_ref=600 Family Tree DNA] :[http://www.myheritage.com/dna?utm_source=partner_wikitree&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=wikitree_nov16_dnasale&tr_funnel=mh+dna My Heritage] ==Who Should Test?== *Test yourself first *If looking for only one biological parent, have the other parent tested if possible. This will help you to quickly sort your matches as paternal/maternal *Any other biological family starting with one to two steps away from you (siblings, aunts/uncles, grandparents, first cousins) *Later, you can look at other people to test based on your initial search results. Check with an Adoption Angel if you need help determining who should be tested. ==I Have My Results. Now What?== * Post to WikiTree -- Click on the Add + Tab at the top of your screen. Then click on DNA Test Information. Use the drop down to choose the test you have taken. Be sure to include your Gedmatch kit number (see below). *Upload your Autosomal DNA for '''FREE''' to the following places (small fee may apply) **Gedmatch.com -- This is a MUST for everyone who wants to use their DNA more efficiently. Not only will it give you thousands of potentially new matches, it allows you to compare your DNA with others even if they have not tested at the same company you have. After you register, click on Fast upload and it will give you instructions based on the company you have tested with. Once your DNA is uploaded, you will be given a kit number which you can add to your WikiTree DNA information and share with others for comparison. (Note: If you have tested with multiple companies, you only need to upload one test to Gedmatch) **FTDNA -- By uploading instead of testing here, your list of matches will be smaller, but it should include all of your top matches. If you wish to pay a small fee (currently $19) you can have full access to all of the features of the FTDNA website. However, the fee is not needed to access matches and their trees. **My Heritage -- The DNA match results for more distant matches here has had a shaky reliability so use with caution, however, their reliability is improving and many have received a great deal of exceptional results, especially with matches outside of the USA. (There is now a $29 unlock fee to access shared matches and DNA tools. You need the shared matches for the information here to be helpful) **LivingDNA--They are currently allowing free uploads from other DNA companies. However, your list of matches may be very very small. LivingDNA is especially good for those born in the UK since that is their target audience. **Geni--If you have tested at FTDNA or uploaded to FTDNA, you can open a free account at Geni and connect it to your FTDNA account. The benefit of this is some people may not have a tree at FTDNA, but might have a tree at Geni. These trees are valuable information. You will not actually receive new DNA matches. Also, please be aware that you are connecting your FTDNA account to Geni by using your FTDNA log in information. Note: Because of changes in the DNA chip used, some companies only take uploads of newer or older versions of tests. Please see [https://dna-explained.com/2017/04/11/autosomal-dna-transfers-which-companies-accept-which-tests/ THIS CHART] on the first page of this blog by DNA expert Roberta Estes. It shows which test uploads each company is currently taking. The chart is current as of September 28, 2017 *If you are looking for health information, consider uploading your DNA test to [https://promethease.com/ Promethease]. For a small fee (currently $12), they will give you health information based on your DNA. For example, they may tell you of some common DNA mutations you have that may cause certain diseases. This information may be helpful to you or your healthcare provider. ==For More Information== Below are some resources for how to best use your DNA results: *[[Space:Greeters_-_DNA_Message|Getting the Best from DNA at WikiTree]] *[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwLty5r3GPE The Search for Biological Family Video] *[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOHhxZN_GHA More Tips for Finding Biological Family Video] *[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmOZXCxsqNU Quick and Dirty Trees Video] *[https://www.rootstech.org/video/you-can-do-dna You Can Do DNA Video] *[https://www.danaleeds.com/the-leeds-method/ The Leeds Method] *[https://dna-explained.com/2019/06/27/identifying-unknown-parents-and-individuals-using-dna-matching/ Using DNA to identify birth parents by Roberta Estes] Websites: *https://dnapainter.com *https://www.geneticaffairs.com

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Category:Florida]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:38, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Florida is not an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Category:Georgia]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:39, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Georgia is not an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Category:Hawaii]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:39, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Hawaii is not an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Category:Idaho]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:39, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Idaho is not an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Category:Illinois]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:40, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Illinois is an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:44, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ===For Adoptions Finalized Prior to January 1, 1994=== *Identifying Information The law requires that the Indiana State Registrar, the Family Social Services Administration (FSSA), county divisions of family and children, child placement agencies, health care providers, and courts release identifying information if both the adult adoptee (age 21 and over) and a birth parent (if named on the original birth record) file a written consent form with the office of the State Registrar. An authorization letter will then be sent to the listed agencies permitting the disclosure of identifying information from their files. If both birth parents named on the original birth certificate are deceased, then only the adoptee's permission for the release is required. If the adoptee is deceased, then only the birth parent's (if named on the birth certificate) consent is required. Proof of their death is required, however. The Indiana State Registrar will conduct a search of death certificates to help determine if the adoptee or birth parents died in Indiana. Download State Form 47896 - Identifying Information Consent Form *Non-Identifying Information Indiana adoption law permits he Indiana State Registrar, the FSSA, the county divisions of family and children, child placement agencies, health care providers, adoption attorneys, and courts to release non-identifying information. An adult adoptee, a birth parent, an adoptive parent, a pre-adoptive sibling, or the spouse or relative of a deceased birth parent or adoptee may request non-identifying information by sending a written request to any of the above listed parties. A photocopy of signature identification must accompany this request. Download State Form 47897 - Non-identifying Information Consent Form ===For Adoptions Finalized After December 31, 1993=== *Identifying Information For adoptions finalized after December 31, 1993: An adult adoptee (age 21 or over) or the adoptive parents of an adoptee who is under age 21 may request information concerning the identity and location of any pre-adoptive siblings of adoptee, may receive identifying information by sending written request, along with signature identification, to the Indiana State Registrar at the Indiana State Department of Health. The Indiana State Registrar, the FSSA, county division of family and children, child placement agencies, health care providers, adoption attorneys, and courts are required to release identifying information unless a birth parent has filed a written non-release form with the State Registrar. In addition to requesting identifying information, an adult adoptee (age 21 or over) or an adult pre-adoptive sibling (age 21 or over) or the adoptive parents of an adoptee may request information If you would like the Office of the State Registrar to conduct a search for medical information for the adoptee, please fill out State form SF47261. Mail a copy of signature identification and this completed form to the address below. Allow 4?6 weeks for processing of your request. Mail it to: Indiana State Department of Health INDIANA ADOPTION MEDICAL HISTORY REGISTRY P.O. BOX 7125 INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46206-7125 ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== '''Effective July 1, 2018''', unless a form has been filed to prevent record availability, identifying adoption information is available to eligible individuals by registration with the Adoption Matching Registry. Please note it may take more than twenty (20) weeks to process requests after receipt due to high volume. This timeframe is subject to change. Indiana initiated an Adoption History Program in 1988 (IC 31-19-18) to allow for the release of medical, non-identifying, and identifying information. To request information from the Adoption History Program, related individuals may register with the [https://www.in.gov/isdh/27862.htm 'Adoption Matching Registry'] . Individuals eligible to register include an adult adoptee, adoptive parent, birth parent, and birth sibling. Spouses and relatives of the deceased adoptee or deceased birth parent may register with the appropriate proof of relationship. An individual must be 18 years or older to register. To receive adoption information, the individual seeking information must be at least 21 years old, and complete both forms, identifying and non-identifying. A request may be submitted to obtain non-identifying information by completing and submitting Form 47897. A request may be submitted to obtain identifying information by completing and submitting Form 47896. Identifying information can be released to adult adoptees as long as a birth parent has not filed a contact preference form to keep the information confidential. Identifying information can be released to birth parents only when both the adult adoptee and the birth parent register. A birth parent, or parents, may restrict the release of identifying information by completing and submitting Form 56535. ---- Indiana is not an open state yet (December 2015). SB 352 did not make it out of House Committee this year, and onto the floor of the House for a vote. A scheduled hearing of an amendment to clarify birthparent notification procedures was delayed due to other unforeseen distractions in the House, bumping what should have been a quick second hearing on this bill off the docket completely. Under current law, Indiana has '''two classes of laws''' for adoptees. #Adoptees adopted after 1994 have access to their records as a matter of law. #Adoptees from '''1941 through 1993''', Indiana’s “closed records” period, are forced to use a difficult and expensive intermediary system for getting their records. [http://www.indianahear.org/blog/open-access-to-adoptee-birth-records-passes-\ Indianahear Blog] ==Additional Local Resources== === Medical History === A 1985 amendment to the adoption laws of the State of Indiana initiated a medical history program to be administered by the State Registrar of Vital Records. In accordance with the changes made by Public Law 282/1985, the INDIANA ADOPTION MEDICAL HISTORY REGISTRY was established on January 1, 1986. #'''Comprehensive Medical Report''' - All new adoption proceedings with petitions for adoption filed in any Indiana court '''after January 1, 1986''', must include a Comprehensive Medical Report. This report reflects the health status and medical history of the adoptee and the adoptee's birth parents. #'''Voluntary Medical Report'''- Any person may voluntarily transmit medical information to benefit an adopted person to the State Registrar for inclusion in the medical history files of the Registry regardless of the date of adoption. Individuals who were adopted in Indiana '''after January 1, 1986''', may have one or more reports in the Registry. The Comprehensive Medical Report, filed when they were adopted, reflects the best known information at that time. Any subsequent changes that may affect this medical history can be filed with supplementary Voluntary Medical Reports. A person adopted '''prior to January 1, 1986''', may have information in the Registry; however, this is dependent upon someone having knowledge of the facts filing a Voluntary Medical Report. The forms for this purpose are distributed to requesting individuals and Indiana Licensed Child Placement Agencies. ---- * [https://www.in.gov/isdh/27862.htm 'Adoption Matching Registry'] *[http://adoptionsofindiana.org/adult-adoptees/ Adult adoptees search & reconnection services] *[http://www.in.gov/isdh/20371.htm Medical History Information for Adopted Persons] *[https://www.americanadoptioncongress.org/state.php#IN American Adoption Congress] ==WikiTree Project== == Sources ==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:46, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Kansas is an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:46, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Kentucky is not an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:47, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Louisiana is not an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:47, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Maine is an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:48, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Maryland is an not considered an "open state"''', "most adult adoptees can get an original birth certificate only for adoptions prior to June 1, 1947." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project== *[http://dhs.maryland.gov/adoption/search-contract-and-reunion/ Maryland Adoption Search Contact and Reunion Services (ASCRS)]

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:48, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Massachusetts is an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can get an original birth certificate for birth dates prior to April 14, 1974." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:48, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Michigan is an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can get an original birth certificate if the birth parent’s rights were terminated prior to 05/28/1945 or on or after 09/12/1980." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:49, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Minnesota is an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can get an original birth certificate for adoptions finalized after 8/1/1982." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:49, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '"Mississippi is not an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:50, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Missouri is a partially "open state" as of 2017''', "adoptees born before 1941 can request a copy of their original birth certificate beginning August 28, 2016. Adoptees born in and after 1941 can request a copy of their original birth certificate beginning January 1, 2018." ==Original birth certificate== Adult adoptees born prior to 1941 may now request their original birth certificate through the Missouri Bureau of Vital Records. The Missouri Adoptee Rights Act can be found here: http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills161/billpdf/truly/HB1599T.PDF https://health.mo.gov/IVrecords/ online forms ==Non Identifying Information== https://health.mo.gov/IVrecords/ online forms The Department shall issue a non-certified copy of the original birth certificate stamped “For genealogical purposes only—not to be used for establishing identity” to the applicant with the identifying information redacted for the birth parent who indicated they preferred not to be contacted or preferred to be contacted through an intermediary when: • The original birth certificate only lists one (1) parent and that birth parent has filed a Birth Parent Contact Preference Form indicating that he/she prefers not to be contacted or prefers contact by an intermediary; • The original birth certificate lists two (2) parents and one (1) birth parent has filed a Birth Parent Contact Preference Form indicating that he/she prefers not to be contacted or prefers contact through an intermediary and the other parent has not filed a Birth Parent Contact Preference Form; or • The original birth certificate lists two (2) parents and one (1) birth parent has filed a Birth Parent Contact Preference Form indicating that he/she prefers not to be contacted or prefers contact through an intermediary and the other parent has filed a Birth Parent Contact Preference Form indicating that he/she prefers to be contacted. Bureau of Vital Records Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services 930 Wildwood Drive Jefferson City, MO 65109 Telephone: 573-751-6387 Email: VitalRecordsInfo@health.mo.gov Office Hours Telephone and Lobby Customer Service by Appointment Monday – Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. CST (excluding state and federal holidays) Email Customer Service: Monday – Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. CST (excluding state and federal holidays) ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== From the St Louis Circuit Court but it covers the laws for the entire state https://www.stlcitycircuitcourt.com/juvenile/adoption/Adoptee%20Packet%2001112017.pdf The Missouri Adoptee Rights Act can be found here: http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills161/billpdf/truly/HB1599T.PDF Can adoptees receive copies of their birth parents’ vital records, such as birth, marriage or death certificates? No, they cannot. What happens if the original birth certificate cannot be located? If the Department cannot locate the original birth certificate, the Department will issue to the applicant a written statement that no record was found. Legal adoptions began in 1857 but, since 1917 adoptions are authorized only by decree of courts exercising juvenile jurisdiction. https://scholarship.law.missouri.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1055&context=mlr ee page 301 Prior to legal adoptions be mandated by state law, adoptions were things that just happened, often handled by churches, families, or neighbors. Little to no records exist for these early instances. ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:50, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Montana is an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can get an original birth certificate as long as the birth occurred 30 years ago or more. So, at age 30, people can now obtain their original birth certificates." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:51, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Nebraksa is not an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:51, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Nevada is not an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:51, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''New Hampshire is an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:53, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''New Jersey is not an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate. However, adoptions will be open January 1, 2017" ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:52, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''New Mexico is not an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:54, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- '''Governor Andrew M. Cuomo signed legislation on November 14, 2019 allowing adoptees for the first time to receive a certified copy of their birth certificate when they turn 18-years-old. This measure (S3419/A5494) helps ensure that all adult New York adoptees will have the same unimpeded right to information about their birth and biological parents.''' ==Original birth certificate== *[https://www.health.ny.gov/vital_records/preadoption.htm Obtaining Original (Pre-Adoption) Birth Certificate for Adoptees] ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project==

[[Category:Canada Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 00:16, 21 August 2020 (UTC) ---- Nunavut adoption legislation (The Adoption Act and the Aboriginal Custom Adoption Recognition Act) is based directly on that of the [[Space:Northwest_Territories_Adoption_Resources|Northwest Territories]], and contains the same provisions regarding '''closed records'''. ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==Additional Local Resources== ==Privacy Laws== ==WikiTree Project== *[https://www.originscanada.org/adoption-records/by-province/nunavut-adoption-records/ Nunavut Adoption Records]. *[https://adoptiondatabase.quickbase.com/db/7c2gsmqv?a=q&qid=82 Canada Adoption Registry].

[[Category:United States Adoption Resources]] [[Project:Adoption_Angels|Adoption Angels Project]] The Adoption Angels Project is currently editing and expanding all Resources by Location pages. It is a work in progress. [[McBeth-165|McBeth-165]] 01:05, 21 August 2020 (UTC) '''Texas is not an "open state" as of 2015''', "an adult adoptee can not get an original birth certificate." ==Original birth certificate== ==Non Identifying Information== ==Third Party Agencies== (adoption agencies, orphanages, intermediaries) ==State Laws== ==Additional Local Resources== ==WikiTree Project== :*[https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vs/reqproc/adoptionregistry.shtm Central Adoption Registry] :* [http://laws.adoption.com/statutes/texas-laws.html Texas Adoption Laws] :* [https://adoptiondatabase.quickbase.com/db/7c2gsmqv?a=q&qid=70 Texas Adoption Registry] :* [https://www.dshs.state.tx.us/vs/reqproc/adoptagencies.shtm Adoption Agency no longer in Business information]