Adult Adopted Person Forms - The Cradle
Adult Adopted Person Forms - The Cradle
Adult Adopted Person Forms - The Cradle
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2049 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201 847-475-5800<br />
Description of Services<br />
Non-Identifying Information<br />
<strong>The</strong> amount of information in <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>’s records varies according to the length of time we worked with the birth<br />
parent(s) and the year in which the adoption was planned. <strong>Cradle</strong> adult adopted people may request nonidentifying<br />
information at age 21 or older, or with parental permission between the ages of 18-20. <strong>Cradle</strong> adoptive<br />
parents may request non-identifying information at any time.<br />
Background History Report<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> can provide all of the available non-identifying information of birth relatives as recorded. This<br />
information usually includes age, physical description, religion, national descent, education level, occupation,<br />
and marital status. When available we can also provide a description of the birth parents’ interests, their<br />
relationship with each other, and the circumstances surrounding the decision to plan adoption. We will also let<br />
you know if we have had any contact with anyone from your birth family since the time of the adoption.<br />
Due to growing awareness about genetic medical conditions, many people have questions about their medical<br />
history. We are able to provide all the known medical information in our records about birth family members.<br />
This information often includes any known diseases within the birth family, a description of the pregnancy, facts<br />
about the labor and delivery process, records of time spent in the <strong>Cradle</strong> Nursery, and any medical developments<br />
of which we have been notified.<br />
Brief Update Report<br />
Often we hear from people who received their non-identifying information years ago, and now they are<br />
interested in knowing if there is any additional information in the record. If you have received non-identifying<br />
information in the past, you can request the Brief Update Report. This offers an additional opportunity for a<br />
review of your record. We will also let you know if we have had any contact with anyone from your birth family<br />
since the time of the adoption.<br />
File Check<br />
We receive many calls from people asking if we have had any contact with the adopted person or anyone from<br />
their birth family since the time of the adoption, as well as people asking for suggestions on whether they should<br />
become a part of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>’s Mutual Consent Registry, or move forward with a Search. With the File Check,<br />
we will review the records and let you know if we have had any contact with your birth relative(s) since the time<br />
of the adoption or if there is a Registry on file for your birth relative.<br />
Birth Parent Report<br />
For Birth Parents, <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> can provide basic non-identifying information about your birth child’s adoptive<br />
family at the time of the adoption. This report includes information about the birth of the baby and his or her<br />
early development. We will also let you know if we have had any subsequent contact from your birth child or<br />
from the adoptive family since the time of the adoption.<br />
Mutual Consent Registry<br />
Many things have changed in adoptions over the years, and Illinois now allows contact between birth parents and<br />
adult adopted people as long as both have given their consent.<br />
09/09 x:/Materials/Post Adoption/<strong>Forms</strong>/Description of Services.doc<br />
1
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>’s Mutual Consent Registry<br />
Many people choose to sign <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>’s Mutual Consent Registry. <strong>The</strong> registry, which was created in 1985,<br />
allows people to let us know that they are open to having contact with a birth relative. <strong>Cradle</strong> adopted people<br />
may register at age 21. <strong>Cradle</strong> adoptive parents of a child under age 21 may register on behalf of their child.<br />
<strong>Cradle</strong> birth parents may register at any time following the adoption. Under certain conditions, relatives of birth<br />
parents and descendants of adopted people may also register. Once the forms are submitted for <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>’s<br />
Registry, they remain on record indefinitely. If there is a match, at the time of registering or in the future, <strong>The</strong><br />
<strong>Cradle</strong> will contact each person and assist in exchanging information based on preauthorization from each<br />
individual involved. If direct contact is not desired, <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> can facilitate an exchange of letters, photos,<br />
information, telephone calls, or a meeting.<br />
PLEASE NOTE: It is important when participating in the registry to keep <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> updated on any<br />
changes to your name, phone number, email or mailing address.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Illinois Adoption Registry and Medical Information Exchange<br />
<strong>The</strong> Illinois Adoption Registry was created as a means for those involved in an adoption that took place in<br />
Illinois to contact biological relatives. <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> Registry is not connected to <strong>The</strong> Illinois Adoption Registry.<br />
<strong>The</strong> law requires that a person requesting a Search must be registered with the Illinois Adoption Registry before<br />
a private agency like <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> may conduct any Search and Outreach for a biological relative. In order for<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> to proceed with a request for a Search, we need a copy of the confirmation letter you received from<br />
the Illinois Adoption Registry verifying your registration. <strong>Forms</strong> for the Illinois Adoption Registry can be<br />
obtained through the website, www.idph.state.il.us or by calling 877-323-5299 (toll-free) or (217) 557-5159.<br />
Reaching Out<br />
In some cases we are not able to make a match through the Registry. When that is the case, many of our clients<br />
choose to move ahead with a Search for their birth relative. In conducting a Search, <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> uses information<br />
given at the time of the adoption and any information obtained thereafter. A variety of Search techniques are used<br />
depending on the information available. Searches through <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> are conducted in an ethical and respectful<br />
manner, and the confidentiality of all parties is maintained. It is important to consider the many possible outcomes<br />
when requesting a search. Reaching Out services are for <strong>Cradle</strong> families only.<br />
Basic Search<br />
All searches begin with a Basic Search. A Basic Search utilizes the information available in the record and<br />
Internet search engines, to try to locate a current address for your birth relative. If a possible address is located,<br />
an outreach letter is sent to your birth relative. When a current address is not located through a Basic Search,<br />
people often choose to upgrade to an Extended Search.<br />
Extended Search<br />
An Extended Search goes beyond the information available in the record and the use of the Internet. Often this<br />
includes extensive research of demographic, historical, archival, and genealogical records, both public and<br />
private. Once a possible address is located, an outreach letter is sent to your birth relative.<br />
<strong>The</strong> time it takes to search for a birth relative can vary from a few weeks to more than a year. Although we are<br />
usually able to locate the person we are seeking, we cannot guarantee that a Search will be successful. <strong>The</strong><br />
majority of adopted people and birth parents we locate are open to contact; some are not. If you request a<br />
Search, be prepared for the possibility that your birth parent or child may choose not to have contact.<br />
Additionally, if we discover your birth relative is deceased, we then look for the closest next of kin. If your birth<br />
relative is open to contact, <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> can act as intermediary exchanging letters and photos until both parties<br />
feel comfortable with direct contact. <strong>The</strong> Search fee, regardless of the outcome, is non-refundable.<br />
Counseling/consultation as needed is included in the Search fee to help with thoughts, feelings, and emotions that<br />
may result from this process.<br />
2<br />
09/09 x:/Materials/Post Adoption/<strong>Forms</strong>/Description of Services.doc
Reconnection<br />
From time to time, birth relatives who were in contact through an open or semi-open adoption, or a successful<br />
Search facilitated by <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>, lose touch. One avenue of trying to reconnect is for <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> to attempt to<br />
locate a current address through the use of Internet search engines and then send an outreach letter to your birth<br />
relative, or your child’s birth relative. To request this service you must be a part of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>’s Mutual Consent<br />
Registry. Please call us for additional information and to see if this service applicable for you.<br />
Life-Long Support<br />
Research and our experience have consistently shown that adoption affects people in many ways throughout their<br />
life spans. For all members of the adoption circle, the experience of adoption weaves through normal growth and<br />
development.<br />
Counseling/Consultation<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> offers both one-time consultations as well as ongoing counseling services to all members of the<br />
adoption circle. Our experienced adoption counselor can provide individual, couple, and family counseling. We<br />
also have positive working relationships with many therapists in the greater Chicago area who have expertise in<br />
adoption related issues, and we can provide you with additional counseling referrals. Additionally, <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> is<br />
available for mediation between parties in an adoption. Counseling/Consultation and mediation is open to any<br />
family, whether they adopted through <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> or not.<br />
Training & In-Service<br />
For agencies, organizations, educators, and professionals, including child welfare and adoption workers and<br />
others who interact with families touched by adoption, in-service programs are available. For families, the pre<br />
and post adoption training we offer addresses the issues required by State and Federal regulations in a lively and<br />
useful format. Training is open to any family, whether they adopted through <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> or not. Information is<br />
available on <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> website. http://www.cradle.org/traininged_home.html<br />
Other Support<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> recognizes support systems are evolving, as social networking becomes more common and<br />
acceptable as forms of communication and support. Postings can be found on Connections, <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>’s online<br />
adoption community forum http://www.cradle.org/forum/ and <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>’s Facebook Page<br />
http://www.facebook.com/<strong>The</strong><strong>Cradle</strong>AdoptionServices .<br />
We also offer a series of workshops to support families connected through adoption. <strong>The</strong>se are open to any<br />
family, whether they adopted through <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> or not. <strong>The</strong> workshop schedule can be found on <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong><br />
website. http://www.cradle.org/post_workshops.html<br />
Adoption Learning Partners is a web-based educational adoption resource for professionals, parents, adopted<br />
individuals, and the families that love them. http://www.adoptionlearningpartners.org/index.cfm<br />
To inquire about our counseling/consultation services, our training & in-service programs, or if you do not find<br />
what you are looking for listed here, please call 847-475-5800 and ask to speak with a member of our Post<br />
Adoption department to describe your needs, or email us at cradle@cradle.org or through our website.<br />
http://www.cradle.org/forms/emform.php?form=18<br />
Please see the “Checklist” in order to insure you have included all forms necessary to request the service(s) you have selected.<br />
09/09 x:/Materials/Post Adoption/<strong>Forms</strong>/Description of Services.doc<br />
3
If you are requesting:<br />
2049 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201 847-475-5800<br />
Checklist for Post<br />
Adoption Services<br />
File Check<br />
You will need to return<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Client Information<br />
Fee Schedule (with payment)<br />
Copy of Valid driver’s license,<br />
state ID, or passport<br />
Background History Report<br />
Brief Update Report<br />
Birth Parent Report<br />
You will need to return<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Client Information<br />
Fee Schedule (with payment)<br />
Copy of Valid driver’s license,<br />
state ID, or passport<br />
Dear Client Letter (signed)<br />
Privacy Acknowledgment (signed)<br />
Copy of Illinois Adoption Registry<br />
Medical Questionnaire (required for<br />
birth parents, optional for others)<br />
Mutual Consent Registry<br />
You will need to return<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Client Information<br />
Fee Schedule (with payment if applicable)<br />
Copy of Valid driver’s license,<br />
state ID, or passport<br />
“Your first letter” (optional)<br />
Registration Identification<br />
Information Exchange Authorization<br />
(Notarized)<br />
Dear Client Letter (signed)<br />
Privacy Acknowledgment (signed)<br />
Copy of Illinois Adoption Registry<br />
Medical Questionnaire (required for<br />
birth parents, optional for others)<br />
Search<br />
You will need to return<br />
Please see the “Description of Services” if you have any questions about<br />
these services.<br />
* Illinois Adoption Registry forms enclosed in packet<br />
<br />
Descendent of a deceased adopted person and the surviving<br />
relative of a deceased birth parent must provide copy of death<br />
certificate or obituary and proof of relationship for any<br />
service request.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Client Information<br />
Fee Schedule (with payment)<br />
Copy of Valid driver’s license,<br />
state ID, or passport<br />
Registration Identification<br />
Information Exchange Authorization<br />
(Notarized)<br />
<strong>Person</strong>al History & Biography<br />
Questionnaire<br />
“Your First Letter”<br />
Dear Client Letter (signed)<br />
Privacy Acknowledgment (signed)<br />
*Copy of Illinois Adoption Registry<br />
Confirmation Letter<br />
Copy of Illinois Adoption Registry<br />
Medical Questionnaire (required for<br />
birth parents, optional for others)<br />
(before requesting a Search, registration with<br />
the state of Illinois is required)<br />
09/09 x:/Materials/Post Adoption/<strong>Forms</strong>/Checklist.doc
Fee Schedule<br />
Post Adoption Services<br />
Your Full Name (please print): ___________________________________________________ Date: ________________<br />
Requested Service(s)<br />
Non-Identifying Information<br />
Registry<br />
Background History Report (DOB 1923-1940) $50<br />
Fees<br />
Background History Report (DOB 1941-present) $125<br />
Brief Update (if you have previously received background information) $50<br />
File Check $25<br />
Birth Parent Report (for Birth Parents only) $0<br />
Registry OR $40<br />
Registry with Illinois Adoption Registry Medical Questionnaire $0<br />
Reaching Out<br />
Basic Search $225<br />
Extended Search (if Basic Search is unsuccessful) $300<br />
Reconnection $50<br />
2049 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201 847-475-5800<br />
Counseling/Consultation<br />
In person<br />
By phone<br />
Mediation at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong><br />
Community Services<br />
Training<br />
$110 (per hour)<br />
$110 (per hour)<br />
(Prorated by 1/2 hour)<br />
$110 (per hour)<br />
contact us for more information<br />
Total Fees: __________<br />
Contribution: __________<br />
Payment Method Total Payment: __________<br />
Check made out to <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> enclosed<br />
If paying by credit card:<br />
Name on Card:<br />
Visa Card Number:<br />
MasterCard Expiration Date:<br />
Discover 3-digit Security Code on back of card ___________________________<br />
Signature:<br />
Current Address: __________________________________________<br />
__________________________________________<br />
FEES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE!<br />
For Office Use Only:<br />
Date Received: ______________________________<br />
Payment Received: _________________<br />
09/09 x:/Materials/Post Adoption/<strong>Forms</strong>/Fee Schedule.doc
2049 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201 847-475-5800<br />
Client Information<br />
Your Name (First, Middle, Last) _______________________________________________________________________<br />
Are you a/an:<br />
<strong>Adult</strong> <strong>Adopted</strong> <strong>Person</strong><br />
Birth Father<br />
Adoptive Parent<br />
Birth Sibling <strong>Adopted</strong><br />
<strong>Adult</strong> descendant of <strong>Adopted</strong> <strong>Person</strong><br />
Surviving relative of deceased Birth Parent<br />
Birth Mother<br />
Other<br />
Name(s) of Adoptive Parents at the time of the adoption:<br />
<strong>Adopted</strong> <strong>Person</strong>’s date of birth: ___________________<br />
Birth Mother’s date of birth: ______________________<br />
Your social security number: _____________________<br />
OR<br />
Name(s) of Birth Parents at the time of the adoption:<br />
_____________________________________________<br />
Your home phone number: _______________________<br />
Your work phone number: _______________________<br />
Your cell phone number: ________________________<br />
Your Email address: ___________________________<br />
Your Home Address:<br />
______________________________________________________________________________________________<br />
______________________________________________________________________________________________<br />
Special mailing instructions (i.e. plain envelope for privacy, or a trusted friend or relative who will be your contact person):<br />
______________________________________________________________________________________________<br />
______________________________________________________________________________________________<br />
______________________________________________________________________________________________<br />
Signature: ________________________________________________________<br />
Date: ______________________<br />
Parental Permission (if applicable):<br />
I/We are aware that an adopted person under 21 years of age must have the written consent of the adoptive parent(s) in<br />
order to receive non-identifying information. I/We do hereby give my/our permission for __________________________,<br />
who is 18-20 years of age, to receive non-identifying information. Attached is a copy of my/our photo ID(s).<br />
Signature:<br />
Signature:<br />
Date:<br />
Date:<br />
Would you like to receive:<br />
Post Adoption Workshop/Support Group Notices (Chicagoland Only)<br />
<br />
Yes<br />
<br />
No<br />
General <strong>Cradle</strong> Newsletter<br />
<br />
Yes<br />
<br />
No<br />
<strong>Cradle</strong> Events<br />
<br />
Yes<br />
<br />
No<br />
09/09 x:/Materials/Post Adoption/<strong>Forms</strong>/Client Information.doc
2049 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201 847-475-5800<br />
Registration Identification<br />
I/We,<br />
, state that I/we am an<br />
(check one) adopted person 21 years of age or older OR , that I/we am the birthmother birthfather<br />
birth sibling adopted adoptive parent(s) adult descendent (of a deceased adopted person)<br />
surviving adult relative of a deceased birth parent surviving spouse (of a deceased adopted person)<br />
of a child who was adopted through <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>, Evanston, IL, at the approximate age of , and that the<br />
following information is true to the best of my knowledge.<br />
Please print all known information:<br />
<strong>Adopted</strong> <strong>Person</strong>: (name at time of adoption or birth)<br />
First Middle Last<br />
Date of Birth Sex City and State of Birth<br />
Adoptive Parent 1:<br />
First Middle Last<br />
Adoptive Parent 2:<br />
First Middle Last<br />
Birth Mother: (name at time of adoption)<br />
First Middle Last<br />
Birth Father: (name at time of adoption)<br />
First Middle Last<br />
Other Relevant Information (if adopted person or birth parent is deceased, please provide information, i.e. date of death, cause of death, etc.):<br />
________________________________________________________<br />
Signature<br />
__________________<br />
Date<br />
________________________________________________________<br />
Signature (Adoptive Parent 2 if applicable)<br />
__________________<br />
Date<br />
09/09 x:/ Materials/Post Adoption/<strong>Forms</strong>/reg_id.doc
2049 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201 847-475-5800<br />
Information Exchange Authorization<br />
I/We, _________________________________________, state that I/we am the person who completed the Registration Identification;<br />
that I am ______ years of age; that I hereby authorize <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> to give the following person(s): (check as applicable)<br />
adopted person birthmother birthfather birth sibling adopted adoptive parent(s) other birth relative(s)<br />
adult child of a deceased adopted person surviving spouse of a deceased adopted person all eligible relatives<br />
the following information:<br />
(please check the information authorized for exchange)<br />
Contact me first before releasing identifying information.<br />
Only my name and last known address can be released.<br />
A copy of the completed medical questionnaire can be released.<br />
I am fully aware that I can only be supplied with any information about the individual(s) who has duly executed an Information<br />
Exchange Authorization for the information which authorization has not been revoked.<br />
My contact information is as follows:<br />
My Name or Name of <strong>Person</strong> through Whom I May Be Contacted<br />
Phone<br />
Street Address<br />
City, State, Zip Code<br />
E-mail<br />
Signature<br />
Date<br />
*adopted person must be 21 years of age or older to Register.<br />
Please be sure to keep <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> updated about your contact information.<br />
State of ______________________________ County of ________________________________<br />
I, a Notary Public, in and for this county, in the state aforesaid, do hereby certify that<br />
is personally known to me to be the same<br />
person whose name is signed to the foregoing Information Exchange Authorization, appeared before me in person and acknowledged<br />
that she/he signed such certificate as her/his free and voluntary act and that the statements in such authorization are true.<br />
Given under my hand and notarial seal this _____ day of ___________________, ________.<br />
(Seal)<br />
______________________________________________<br />
Signature<br />
09/09 x:/Materials/Post Adoption/<strong>Forms</strong>/infoex.doc
Our mission is to benefit children…by providing education, guidance<br />
and lifelong support on parenting choices. Our commitment is to serve as a partner<br />
in creating and sustaining nurturing families.<br />
What Every Client Should Know<br />
Dear Client,<br />
Thank you for choosing <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>. Regardless of the circumstances that have brought you to our<br />
organization, we will endeavor to make your experience with us as positive, satisfying and fulfilling as possible.<br />
We view our relationship with you as a true partnership. To that end, we want to take this opportunity to tell<br />
you what you can expect from the staff of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> and we want to explain what we expect from you.<br />
We will endeavor to treat you with consideration and respect for your personal dignity and<br />
privacy. Information obtained during the course of receiving service from <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> is<br />
privileged and will not be released without your written consent, except as required by<br />
applicable laws. We hope you will extend the same consideration to others if, while receiving<br />
services, you are in contact with or learn information about other clients of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>.<br />
We embrace the importance of each client’s self-determination. We hope that you will be<br />
an active participant in our program and take full advantage of the many service opportunities<br />
that exist. We regard each client as a unique individual and we respect your desire to make<br />
decisions that are best for you based on the educational and counseling services you receive. It<br />
is important that you also understand that decisions you make may have implications for other<br />
clients. <strong>The</strong> nature of our mission is such that we must consider our clients equally. However,<br />
our first obligation is to promote and protect the interest of children.<br />
Should you wish to access your record, please give the staff member with whom you are<br />
working reasonable notice so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. (<strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>’s<br />
usual business hours are from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Individual needs<br />
may be discussed with a counselor and arrangements may be made for after-hours<br />
appointments.)<br />
You should expect complete honesty from every staff member with whom you have contact.<br />
Similarly, it is imperative that you be completely honest with us. We believe that open<br />
communication is essential. In the event we feel that <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>’s services are not appropriate<br />
for you, we will give you an explanation. If you decide to withdraw from our services, it would<br />
be helpful for us to understand your reasons in order for us to continually improve.<br />
If you are receiving services for which <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> charges fees, we will keep you informed of<br />
these fees.<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> abides by local, state and federal laws regarding discrimination practices.<br />
2007
As much as we appreciate receiving positive feedback, we realize that there may be points in the process<br />
when you are not satisfied. Your first step is to be open and direct with your social worker. We understand<br />
that this can be difficult. Sometimes clients feel that they will be penalized for raising concerns or<br />
complaints. In fact, we value your feedback and we pledge to use it constructively.<br />
• When you have a concern you should share it with your social worker. If you are more comfortable<br />
sharing your concern directly with the supervisor you may certainly do so. Please know, however,<br />
that it is our practice at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> to keep all lines of communication open. Thus, you should<br />
expect that the supervisor will share your concern with your social worker. Open discussions can<br />
often address the concern and resolve the issue satisfactorily. If, however, you are not satisfied with<br />
the outcome after these discussions, you may initiate a formal Problem Resolution Process.<br />
• When beginning the formal Problem Resolution Process, take the time to describe, in writing, the<br />
nature of your concern and forward it to the Executive Director of Adoption Services (“Executive<br />
Director”). <strong>The</strong> Executive Director will initiate an investigation of your complaint within 2<br />
business days upon receipt of the complaint. <strong>The</strong> Executive Director will share your complaint with<br />
your social worker and his/her supervisor and discuss your concerns and determine whether<br />
correctable action is indicated. You may be asked to meet with your social worker, his/her<br />
supervisor, and Executive Director.<br />
• We will endeavor to expedite this process but the actual amount of time it takes depends on a<br />
variety of factors including the availability of all the staff members involved, but in no event will it<br />
be longer than 10 business days unless extenuating circumstances exist which require additional<br />
time for resolution. Should this occur, you will be notified at least by day ten of the need to<br />
continue the investigation.<br />
• As required by law, the Agency will report the outcome of its complaint investigation in writing to<br />
the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) regional licensing office or the DCFS<br />
Licensing Representative within 10 business days after complaints are received unless extenuating<br />
circumstances exist which require additional time for resolution. DCFS will also receive an update<br />
at day ten should additional time be required. <strong>The</strong> Executive Director will be responsible for<br />
reporting on the nature of the complaint and resolution at the Agency’s next Board of Directors<br />
meeting.<br />
• At no time will the Agency retaliate against complainants.<br />
Thank you, again, for choosing <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>.<br />
I/WE HAVE READ, UNDERSTAND, AND AGREE TO THIS EXPLANATION OF EXPECTATIONS AND PROBLEM<br />
RESOLUTION.<br />
Signature: _______________________________________________<br />
Printed Name: ____________________________________________ Date: ___________<br />
Signature: _______________________________________________<br />
Printed Name: ____________________________________________ Date: ___________<br />
2007
Our mission is to benefit children…by providing education, guidance<br />
and lifelong support on parenting choices. Our commitment is to serve as a partner<br />
in creating and sustaining nurturing families.<br />
What Every Client Should Know<br />
Dear Client,<br />
Thank you for choosing <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>. Regardless of the circumstances that have brought you to our<br />
organization, we will endeavor to make your experience with us as positive, satisfying and fulfilling as possible.<br />
We view our relationship with you as a true partnership. To that end, we want to take this opportunity to tell<br />
you what you can expect from the staff of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> and we want to explain what we expect from you.<br />
We will endeavor to treat you with consideration and respect for your personal dignity and<br />
privacy. Information obtained during the course of receiving service from <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> is<br />
privileged and will not be released without your written consent, except as required by<br />
applicable laws. We hope you will extend the same consideration to others if, while receiving<br />
services, you are in contact with or learn information about other clients of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>.<br />
We embrace the importance of each client’s self-determination. We hope that you will be<br />
an active participant in our program and take full advantage of the many service opportunities<br />
that exist. We regard each client as a unique individual and we respect your desire to make<br />
decisions that are best for you based on the educational and counseling services you receive. It<br />
is important that you also understand that decisions you make may have implications for other<br />
clients. <strong>The</strong> nature of our mission is such that we must consider our clients equally. However,<br />
our first obligation is to promote and protect the interest of children.<br />
Should you wish to access your record, please give the staff member with whom you are<br />
working reasonable notice so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. (<strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>’s<br />
usual business hours are from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Individual needs<br />
may be discussed with a counselor and arrangements may be made for after-hours<br />
appointments.)<br />
You should expect complete honesty from every staff member with whom you have contact.<br />
Similarly, it is imperative that you be completely honest with us. We believe that open<br />
communication is essential. In the event we feel that <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>’s services are not appropriate<br />
for you, we will give you an explanation. If you decide to withdraw from our services, it would<br />
be helpful for us to understand your reasons in order for us to continually improve.<br />
If you are receiving services for which <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> charges fees, we will keep you informed of<br />
these fees.<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> abides by local, state and federal laws regarding discrimination practices.<br />
2007
As much as we appreciate receiving positive feedback, we realize that there may be points in the process<br />
when you are not satisfied. Your first step is to be open and direct with your social worker. We understand<br />
that this can be difficult. Sometimes clients feel that they will be penalized for raising concerns or<br />
complaints. In fact, we value your feedback and we pledge to use it constructively.<br />
• When you have a concern you should share it with your social worker. If you are more comfortable<br />
sharing your concern directly with the supervisor you may certainly do so. Please know, however,<br />
that it is our practice at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> to keep all lines of communication open. Thus, you should<br />
expect that the supervisor will share your concern with your social worker. Open discussions can<br />
often address the concern and resolve the issue satisfactorily. If, however, you are not satisfied with<br />
the outcome after these discussions, you may initiate a formal Problem Resolution Process.<br />
• When beginning the formal Problem Resolution Process, take the time to describe, in writing, the<br />
nature of your concern and forward it to the Executive Director of Adoption Services (“Executive<br />
Director”). <strong>The</strong> Executive Director will initiate an investigation of your complaint within 2<br />
business days upon receipt of the complaint. <strong>The</strong> Executive Director will share your complaint with<br />
your social worker and his/her supervisor and discuss your concerns and determine whether<br />
correctable action is indicated. You may be asked to meet with your social worker, his/her<br />
supervisor, and Executive Director.<br />
• We will endeavor to expedite this process but the actual amount of time it takes depends on a<br />
variety of factors including the availability of all the staff members involved, but in no event will it<br />
be longer than 10 business days unless extenuating circumstances exist which require additional<br />
time for resolution. Should this occur, you will be notified at least by day ten of the need to<br />
continue the investigation.<br />
• As required by law, the Agency will report the outcome of its complaint investigation in writing to<br />
the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) regional licensing office or the DCFS<br />
Licensing Representative within 10 business days after complaints are received unless extenuating<br />
circumstances exist which require additional time for resolution. DCFS will also receive an update<br />
at day ten should additional time be required. <strong>The</strong> Executive Director will be responsible for<br />
reporting on the nature of the complaint and resolution at the Agency’s next Board of Directors<br />
meeting.<br />
• At no time will the Agency retaliate against complainants.<br />
Thank you, again, for choosing <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>.<br />
I/WE HAVE READ, UNDERSTAND, AND AGREE TO THIS EXPLANATION OF EXPECTATIONS AND PROBLEM<br />
RESOLUTION.<br />
Signature: _______________________________________________<br />
Printed Name: ____________________________________________ Date: ___________<br />
Signature: _______________________________________________<br />
Printed Name: ____________________________________________ Date: ___________<br />
2007
<strong>Person</strong>al History & Biography Questionnaire<br />
<strong>Adopted</strong> <strong>Person</strong><br />
When we are working on your behalf making an outreach or searching for birth relatives, it is helpful to have some<br />
information about you. Your answers to the following questions will assist us in serving you throughout the process.<br />
Additionally, we will be better able to represent you should contact be made with a birth relative. <strong>The</strong> nonidentifying<br />
information you provide can, by law, be shared with your birth relative. Please feel free to use additional<br />
pages as needed.<br />
Name:<br />
2049 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201 847-475-5800<br />
1. What is your marital status?<br />
2. Do you have any children? If so, what ages, and genders?<br />
3. What are some of your hobbies, skills, and interests?<br />
4. What is your educational background?<br />
5. Briefly describe your employment history.<br />
6. How would you describe your childhood?<br />
7. What is your relationship with your adoptive family like now?<br />
8. Does your adoptive family know about your decision to search?<br />
(Continued on Back)<br />
09/09 x:/Materials/Post Adoption/<strong>Forms</strong>/questionnaire_ad.doc
9. If so, what are their thoughts and feelings about your decision?<br />
10. What are the main motivating factors in your decision to begin the search process at this time?<br />
11. Do you know anyone who has attempted a search of this nature? Please describe.<br />
12. How have you prepared for the search process?<br />
13. What is your primary means of emotional support? (answers could include but are not limited to: religion, family,<br />
counseling/therapy, and support groups)<br />
14. What do you imagine as the best outcome of your search efforts?<br />
15. What do you imagine as the most difficult outcome of your search efforts?<br />
16. Are there any specific medical conditions that you are concerned may be in your birth family history?<br />
17. If you could say one thing to your birth relative what would it be?<br />
18. Is there any additional information we should know about you in order to assist you throughout this process?<br />
Signature<br />
Date<br />
09/09 x:/Materials/Post Adoption/<strong>Forms</strong>/questionnaire_ad.doc
Writing “Your First Letter”<br />
2049 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201 847-475-5800<br />
When a birth relative is located, the question is often, "what do we do now?" While<br />
many people want to meet right away, our experience has taught us that often the best<br />
reunions are those that proceed more slowly, allowing the relationship to grow and<br />
develop over time. Taking things slowly gives each person an opportunity to get to know<br />
one another as well as deal with the myriad of often conflicting emotions that may arise.<br />
To begin this process, we ask that you write a letter to your birth relative that does not<br />
contain any identifying information. This letter is an opportunity for you to introduce<br />
yourself. You may wish to include a brief summary of major events in your life, as well<br />
as a statement about how your adoption experience has affected your life. It will also be<br />
important to include what you are hoping for from this contact. Many people, when first<br />
located, feel more comfortable beginning contact with letters and photos exchanged<br />
confidentially and anonymously through <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>. You may wish to express your<br />
willingness to begin contact in this manner.<br />
We have found that in these letters, using terminology such as "birth parent," "birth son,"<br />
and "birth daughter" can be helpful. Although you may wish to do so, please do not<br />
include your last name, address, phone number, or email in this letter. It is best to wait<br />
until both you and your birth relative are comfortable before releasing this information.<br />
For photographs, you may wish to include several of yourself from childhood through the<br />
present. In addition, if you have children you are parenting or have parented, you may<br />
wish to include photos of them. If you do not want to part with certain photos (for<br />
example of yourself as a child), you could send color photocopies. Please do not select<br />
photographs of yourself in which you are wearing sunglasses.<br />
If we are able to locate your birth relative, we will make this letter available to him or<br />
her. If we are not able to locate your birth relative, or if your birth relative is not open to<br />
receiving your letter, it will remain in our files. Should we hear from your birth relative<br />
in the future, this letter will then be available to him or her.<br />
While this letter may be difficult to write, please remember that it is your birth relative’s<br />
first introduction to you as a person. Keep in mind that you cannot say everything in one<br />
letter, and that too much information can be overwhelming for the recipient. Hopefully,<br />
this will be the first of many contacts. If you would like us to review a draft of your<br />
letter, please feel free to send or fax it to us. Remember that it does not have to be<br />
perfect, just sincere. <strong>The</strong> most important thing of all is just to start writing!<br />
09/09 x:/Materials/Post Adoption/<strong>Forms</strong>/Your First Letter.doc
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong><br />
Notice of Privacy Practices<br />
THIS NOTICE DESCRIBES HOW MEDICAL INFORMATION ABOUT YOU MAY BE USED<br />
AND DISCLOSED AND HOW YOU CAN GET ACCESS TO THIS INFORMATION.<br />
PLEASE REVIEW THIS NOTICE CAREFULLY.<br />
Your client file may contain personal information about your health and/or the health of your child(ren). This<br />
information may identify you and relates to your past, present or future physical or mental health condition and<br />
related health care services is referred to as Protected Health Information (“PHI”). This Notice of Privacy<br />
Practices describes how we may use and disclose your PHI in accordance with applicable law and the NASW<br />
Code of Ethics. It also describes your rights regarding how you may gain access to and control your PHI.<br />
We are required by law to maintain the privacy of PHI and to provide you with notice of our legal duties and<br />
privacy practices with respect to PHI. We are required to abide by the terms of this Notice of Privacy Practices.<br />
We reserve the right to change the terms of our Notice of Privacy Practices at any time. Any new Notice of<br />
Privacy Practices will be effective for all PHI that we maintain at that time. We will provide you with a copy of<br />
the revised Notice of Privacy Practices by posting a copy on our website, sending a copy to you in the mail upon<br />
request or providing one to you at your next appointment.<br />
HOW WE MAY USE AND DISCLOSE HEALTH INFORMATION ABOUT YOU<br />
For Services. Your PHI may be used and disclosed by those who are involved in your care for the purpose of<br />
providing, coordinating, or managing your services. This includes consultation with clinical supervisors or other<br />
team members. We may disclose PHI to any other consultant only with your authorization.<br />
For Business Operations. We may use or disclose, as needed, your PHI in order to support our business<br />
activities including, but not limited to, quality assessment activities, employee review activities, licensing, and<br />
conducting or arranging for other business activities. For example, we may share your PHI with third parties<br />
that perform various business activities (e.g., Council on Accreditation or other regulatory or licensing bodies)<br />
provided we have a written contract with the business that requires it to safeguard the privacy of your PHI.<br />
Required by Law. Under the law, we must make disclosures of your PHI to you upon your request. In addition,<br />
we must make disclosures to the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services for the purpose of<br />
investigating or determining our compliance with the requirements of the Privacy Rule, if so required.<br />
Without Authorization. Applicable law and ethical standards permit us to disclose information about you<br />
without your authorization only in a limited number of other situations. Examples of some of the types of uses<br />
and disclosures that may be made without your authorization are those that are:<br />
• Required by Law, such as the mandatory reporting of child abuse or neglect or mandatory government<br />
agency audits or investigations (such as the social work licensing board or the health department)<br />
• Required by Court Order<br />
• Necessary to prevent or lessen a serious and imminent threat to the health or safety of a person or the<br />
public. If information is disclosed to prevent or lessen a serious threat it will be disclosed to a person or<br />
persons reasonably able to prevent or lessen the threat, including the target of the threat.<br />
Verbal Permission<br />
We may use or disclose your information to family members that are directly involved in your receipt of services<br />
with your verbal permission.<br />
Based largely on text provided by the<br />
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SOCIAL WORKERS<br />
DOCUMENT D2<br />
© Popovits & Robinson, P.C. Page 1 of 2<br />
4-2003<br />
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With Authorization. Uses and disclosures not specifically permitted by applicable law will be made only with<br />
your written authorization, which may be revoked.<br />
YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING YOUR PHI<br />
You have the following rights regarding PHI we maintain about you. To exercise any of these rights, please<br />
submit your request in writing to our Privacy Officer, Merrilee Hepler, Vice President Human Resources &<br />
Administration at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>, 2049 Ridge Ave., Evanston, IL, 60201:<br />
• Right of Access to Inspect and Copy. You have the right, which may be restricted only in exceptional<br />
circumstances or with documents released to us, to inspect and copy PHI that may be used to make<br />
decisions about service provided (please refer to the Client’s Rights document for further details).<br />
• Right to Amend. If you feel that the PHI we have about you is incorrect or incomplete, you may ask us<br />
to amend the information although we are not required to agree to the amendment.<br />
• Right to an Accounting of Disclosures. You have the right to request an accounting of certain of the<br />
disclosures that we make of your PHI. We may charge you a reasonable fee if you request more than one<br />
accounting in any 12-month period.<br />
• Right to Request Restrictions. You have the right to request a restriction or limitation on the use or<br />
disclosure of your PHI for services, payment, or business operations. We are not required to agree to<br />
your request.<br />
• Right to Request Confidential Communication. You have the right to request that we communicate<br />
with you about PHI matters.<br />
• Right to a Copy of this Notice. You have the right to a copy of this notice.<br />
COMPLAINTS<br />
If you believe we have violated your privacy rights, you have the right to file a complaint in writing with our<br />
Privacy Officer at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong> or with the Secretary of Health and Human Services at 200 Independence Avenue,<br />
S.W. Washington, D.C. 20201 or by calling (202) 619-0257. We will not retaliate against you for filing a<br />
complaint.<br />
<strong>The</strong> effective date of this Notice is April 14, 2003.<br />
Based largely on text provided by the<br />
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SOCIAL WORKERS<br />
DOCUMENT D2<br />
© Popovits & Robinson, P.C. Page 2 of 2<br />
4-2003<br />
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2049 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, Illinois 60201. 847-475-5800<br />
Reading Suggestions<br />
Talking With Children About Adoption<br />
Being <strong>Adopted</strong>: <strong>The</strong> Lifelong Search for Self<br />
David M. Brodzinsky, Marshall D. Schechter & Robin<br />
Marantz Henig<br />
Why Didn’t She Keep Me?<br />
Barbara Burlingham-Brown<br />
Talking to Your Child about Adoption<br />
Patricia Martinez Dorner<br />
Making Sense of Adoption: A Parent’s Guide<br />
Lois Ruskai Melina<br />
Dear Birthmother<br />
Kathleen Silber, Phylis Speedlin<br />
Talking with Young Children about Adoption<br />
Mary Watkins, Susan Fisher<br />
Children’s Books About Adoption<br />
Together Forever: An Adoption Story Coloring Book<br />
Sara L. Barris<br />
<strong>The</strong> Mulberry Bird: Story of an Adoption<br />
Anne Braff Brodzinsky<br />
How Was I <strong>Adopted</strong>: Samantha’s Story<br />
Joanna Cole<br />
Tell Me Again about the Night I Was Born<br />
Jamie Lee Curtis<br />
Susan and Gordon Adopt a Baby: Based on the Sesame<br />
Street Television Script<br />
Judy Freudberg, Tony Geiss<br />
A Mother for Choco<br />
Keoko Kasza<br />
How It Feels to Be <strong>Adopted</strong><br />
Jill Krementz<br />
Beginnings: How Families Come to Be<br />
Virginia Kroll<br />
Pugnose Has Two Special Families<br />
Karis Kruzel<br />
Twice-Upon-A-Time: Born and <strong>Adopted</strong><br />
Eleanora Patterson<br />
Families Are Different<br />
Nina Pellegrini<br />
Lucy’s Feet<br />
Stephanie Stein<br />
Open Adoption<br />
How to Open an Adoption: A Guide for Parents and Birth<br />
Parents of Minors<br />
Patricia Martinez Dorner<br />
<strong>The</strong> Spirit of Open Adoption<br />
James L. Gritter<br />
Openness in Adoption: Exploring Family Connections<br />
Harold Grotevant, Ruth McRoy<br />
<strong>The</strong> Open Adoption Experience<br />
Lois Ruskai Melina, Sharon Kaplan Roszia<br />
A Letter to Adoptive Parents on Open Adoption<br />
Randolph W. Severson<br />
Children of Open Adoption<br />
Kathleen Silber, Patricia Martinez Dorner<br />
<strong>The</strong> Open Adoption Book<br />
Bruce M. Rappaport<br />
Understanding <strong>Adopted</strong> <strong>Person</strong>s<br />
Being <strong>Adopted</strong>: <strong>The</strong> Life Long Search for Self<br />
David M. Brodzinsky, Marshall D. Schechter & Robin<br />
Marantz Henig<br />
Journey of the <strong>Adopted</strong> Self: A Quest for Wholeness<br />
Betty Jean Lifton<br />
(Continued on Back)
Children’s Adjustment to Adoption: Developmental and<br />
Clinical Issues<br />
David M. Brodzinsky, Anne B. Brodzinsky & Daniel W.<br />
Smith<br />
Primal Wound: Understanding the <strong>Adopted</strong> Child<br />
Nancy Newton Verrier<br />
Twice Born: Memoirs of an <strong>Adopted</strong> Daughter<br />
Betty Jean Lifton<br />
Understanding Birth Parents<br />
<strong>The</strong> Girls Who Went Away – <strong>The</strong> Hidden History of<br />
Women Who Surrendered Children for Adoption in the<br />
Decades Before Roe v. Wade<br />
Ann Fessler<br />
Birth Mothers: Women Tell <strong>The</strong>ir Stories<br />
Merry Jones<br />
Out of the Shadows: Birthfathers’ Stories<br />
Mary Martin Mason<br />
Waiting to Forget<br />
Margaret Moorman<br />
Saying Goodbye to a Baby: Volume I – <strong>The</strong> Birth<br />
Parent’s Guide to Grief and Loss in Adoption<br />
Patricia Roles<br />
<strong>The</strong> Other Mother: A Woman’s Love for the Child She<br />
Gave up for Adoption<br />
Carol Schaefer<br />
Dear Birthfather<br />
Randolph W. Severson<br />
Dear Birthmother<br />
Kathleen Silber, Phylis Speedlin<br />
Giving Away Simone: A Memoir<br />
Jan L. Waldron<br />
without a map<br />
Meredith Hall<br />
Understanding Adoptive Parents<br />
Wanting a Child<br />
Jill Bialosky, Helen Schulman<br />
Courageous Blessing: Adoptive Parents and the Search<br />
Carol L. Demuth<br />
<strong>The</strong> Limits of Hope: An Adoptive Mother’s Story<br />
Ann Kimble Loux<br />
Secret Thoughts of an Adoptive Mother<br />
Jana Wolff<br />
Adopting after Infertility<br />
Patricia Irwin Johnston<br />
Reunions<br />
Birth Bond: Reunions between Birthparents and Adoptees<br />
– What Happens After…<br />
Judith Gediman, Linda P. Brown<br />
A Man and His Mother: An <strong>Adopted</strong> Son’s Search<br />
Tim Green<br />
<strong>The</strong> Mistress’s Daughter<br />
A.M. Homes<br />
Lost and Found: <strong>The</strong> Adoption Experience<br />
Betty Jean Lifton<br />
Ithaka: A Daughter’s Memoir of Being Found<br />
Sarah Saffian<br />
A Wealth of Family: An <strong>Adopted</strong> Son’s<br />
Int’l Quest for Heritage, Reunion and Enrichment<br />
Thomas Brooks<br />
03/08 2<br />
x:/Materials/Post Adoption/<strong>Forms</strong>/Reading Suggestions.doc
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING<br />
ILLINOIS ADOPTION REGISTRY-MEDICAL INFORMATION EXCHANGE (IARMIE) FORMS<br />
Type or print (in ink) all known information asked for on the forms. If you do not know the information, please leave that item<br />
blank.<br />
All registrations must contain the following basic forms/items:<br />
1. Your specific Registration Identification form (<strong>Adopted</strong> <strong>Person</strong>, Birth Parent, etc.)<br />
2. Illinois Adoption Registry Application form<br />
3. Your registration MUST INCLUDE a photocopy of a government issued photo ID. Acceptable IDs are:<br />
driver’s license with photo, government issued photo ID cards or passport.<br />
You must choose upon completion of your basic registration forms one of these options: Select the one that best defines<br />
what you wish to accomplish with your registration and submit the required items/forms.<br />
A. If you wish to exchange medical information, with or without exchanging identifying information, you must<br />
include the following forms in addition to your basic registration forms:<br />
4. A properly completed Information Exchange Authorization form **See note<br />
5. A completed medical information questionnaire form<br />
B. If you wish to exchange identifying information but NOT medical information you must include these forms/items<br />
in addition to your basic registration forms:<br />
4. A properly completed Information Exchange Authorization form **See note<br />
5. <strong>The</strong> required registration fee of $40 - made payable to the Illinois Department of Public Health. NOTE: this fee<br />
is waived for persons agreeing to exchange the medical information questionnaire, which contains NO<br />
identifying information.<br />
C. If you wish to deny contact of any kind, you must include these forms/items in addition to your basic registration<br />
forms:<br />
4. A properly completed Denial of Information Exchange form **See note<br />
5. <strong>The</strong> required registration fee of $40 - made payable to the Illinois Department of Public Health. NOTE: this fee<br />
is waived for persons agreeing to exchange at least the medical information questionnaire, which contains NO<br />
identifying information.<br />
**NOTE: <strong>The</strong> applicant=s signature must be notarized on the “Information Exchange Authorization@ or the ADenial of<br />
Information Exchange@ forms. If the form does not contain your signature and that of the notary, as well as the notary’s<br />
seal, you will be sent another form to properly complete before being placed in the IARMIE.<br />
In addition to the completed registration, you may submit the following optional items:<br />
Optional written statements and optional photographs - Sign Section B and C on the Illinois Application form to authorize the<br />
release of the documents. <strong>The</strong>se will be released to the person(s) you wish to exchange information with as indicated on your<br />
Information Exchange Authorization. Photographs are to be of the registrant alone and are to be no larger than 82@ X 11".<br />
Statements may not contain any specific names, dates or places.<br />
Effective January 1, 2004:<br />
<strong>Adopted</strong> <strong>Person</strong>s, Adoptive Parents and Legal Guardians of <strong>Adopted</strong> <strong>Person</strong>s have the option to request non-identifying<br />
information that is contained within the certifiable portion of the original birth record being released to them. You will need to sign<br />
and date Section D of the Illinois Adoption Registry Application form to receive this information.<br />
Birth Parents have the option to request confirmation of the date and place of birth of the child from the original birth record.<br />
You will need to sign and date Section E of the Illinois Adoption Registry Application form to receive this information.<br />
If you have questions or would like help or guidance in completing the forms, please feel free to contact the Illinois Adoption<br />
Registry. If you live in Illinois you may call the registry toll free at 877 - 323 - 5299. If you live outside of Illinois, the telephone<br />
number to call is 217 - 557 - 5159. <strong>The</strong> Illinois Adoption Registry does have voice mail and those who leave a name, telephone<br />
number and the best time reach them will receive a return call.<br />
Mail the completed registration, which is the basic registration forms and the forms from option A, B or C (whichever you<br />
chose) to: Illinois Adoption Registry and Medical Information Exchange, Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Vital<br />
Records, 605 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL 62702-5097
This application is<br />
Illinois Department of Public Health<br />
ILLINOIS ADOPTION REGISTRY<br />
AND MEDICAL INFORMATION EXCHANGE APPLICATION<br />
❏ a new registration ❏ an update to a prior registration (please note any updates must be accompanied by ID).<br />
I am registering/registered as (check one) ❏ an adult adopted or surrendered person; ❏ a birth parent; ❏ adoptive parent or<br />
legal guardian of an adopted or surrendered person; ❏ surviving relative of a deceased birth parent; ❏ surviving relative of a<br />
deceased adopted or surrendered person as stated on the registration identification.<br />
Section A. REGISTRANT INFORMATION<br />
Name: _________________________________________________________________________<br />
(first) (middle) (maiden if applicable) (last)<br />
Today’s date: _______________<br />
Mailing address: _____________________________________________________________________________________________<br />
(street) (city) (state) (ZIP code)<br />
Sex: __________ SSN______-_____-___________ Phone: ( ____ ) _________________<br />
(male or female)<br />
(OPTIONAL)<br />
Section B. COMPLETE WHEN OPTIONAL PHOTOGRAPH(S) ARE BEING FILED<br />
<strong>The</strong> enclosed photograph(s) is (are) to be released to the person(s) specified on my Information Exchange Authorization form. <strong>The</strong> photograph(s)<br />
does (do) not include identifying information pertaining to any person other than myself, and do not include anyone else.<br />
(NOTE: Photograph(s) are to be no larger than 8 fi" x 11")<br />
__________________________________________________<br />
Applicant Signature/Date<br />
Section C. COMPLETE WHEN OPTIONAL WRITTEN STATEMENT IS BEING FILED<br />
An optional written statement (on the prescribed form) is enclosed and is to be released to the person(s) specified on my Information<br />
Exchange Authorization form. This statement does not include any identifying information pertaining to any person other than myself<br />
and does not include any specific names, dates or places.<br />
__________________________________________________<br />
Applicant Signature/Date<br />
Section D. SIGN WHEN REQUESTING NON-IDENTIFYING INFORMATION BE RELEASED<br />
I, the undersigned, request that any non-identifying information, as detailed in 750 ILCS 50/18.4(a)(c), be released to me. I understand<br />
that non-identifying information can only be provided to an adopted person, adoptive parent or legal guardian who is a registrant<br />
of the Illinois Adoption Registry.<br />
<strong>Adopted</strong>/Surrendered name____________________________________<br />
Date of birth ______________________<br />
_____________________________________________<br />
Applicant Signature/Date<br />
Section E. SIGN WHEN REQUESTING ACTUAL DATE AND PLACE OF BIRTH BE RELEASED TO BIRTH PARENT<br />
I, the undersigned, request that I be provided with the actual date and place of birth of the child I placed for adoption per 750 ILCS<br />
50/18.4(d).<br />
__________________________________________________<br />
Applicant Signature/Date<br />
See other side for a list of required documentation.<br />
Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Records, 605 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL 62702-5097<br />
VR161 (rev. 08/2004) Printed by Authority of the State of Illinois P.O. #146104 3M 2/06 IL482-1014
REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION<br />
<strong>Adopted</strong>/Surrendered <strong>Person</strong> or Adoptive Parent or Legal Guardian of an adopted/surrendered person<br />
❏ Appropriate Registration Identification form<br />
❏ Adoption Registry Application form<br />
❏ Photocopy of photo identification<br />
❏ Information Exchange Authorization form OR ❏ Denial of Information Exchange Authorization form<br />
With one of the following:<br />
With $40.00 registration fee made payable to IDPH<br />
a. Completed Medical Questionnaire form<br />
b. $40.00 registration fee made payable to IDPH<br />
❏ If born outside of ILLINOIS, certified copy of birth certificate<br />
❏ If a legal guardian, certified copy of court ordered guardianship<br />
Birth Mother/Father<br />
❏ Appropriate Registration Identification form<br />
❏ Adoption Registry Application form<br />
❏ Photocopy of photo identification<br />
❏ Information Exchange Authorization form OR ❏ Denial of Information Exchange Authorization form<br />
With one of the following:<br />
With $40.00 registration fee made payable to IDPH<br />
a. Completed Medical Questionnaire form<br />
b. $40.00 registration fee made payable to IDPH<br />
Surviving Relative of a Deceased Birth Parent (birth parent’s non-surrendered child, sister or brother)<br />
❏ Appropriate Registration Identification form<br />
❏ Adoption Registry Application form<br />
❏ Photocopy of photo identification<br />
❏ Information Exchange Authorization form OR ❏ Denial of Information Exchange Authorization form<br />
With one of the following:<br />
With $40.00 registration fee made payable to IDPH<br />
a. Completed Medical Questionnaire form<br />
b. $40.00 registration fee made payable to IDPH<br />
❏ Certified copy of birth and death certificate of birth parent<br />
❏ Certified copy of your birth certificate<br />
Surviving Relative of a Deceased <strong>Adopted</strong>/Surrendered <strong>Person</strong> (adult child or spouse with a minor child)<br />
❏ Appropriate Registration Identification form<br />
❏ Adoption Registry Application form<br />
❏ Photocopy of photo identification<br />
❏ Information Exchange Authorization form OR ❏ Denial of Information Exchange Authorization form<br />
With one of the following:<br />
With $40.00 registration fee made payable to IDPH<br />
a. Completed Medical Questionnaire form<br />
b. $40.00 registration fee made payable to IDPH<br />
❏ Certified copy of birth and death certificate of adopted/surrendered person<br />
❏ Certified copy of the adopted/surrendered persons child’s birth certificate<br />
❏ If spouse with minor child, certified copy of marriage certificate
Illinois Department of Public Health<br />
ILLINOIS ADOPTION REGISTRY APPLICATION<br />
Section C - Optional written statement<br />
This optional written statement is authorized for release as specified in Section C of the Adoption History Application. This statement is limited<br />
to the space (two pages) provided on this form and cannot include information that would identify any person other than the registrant submitting<br />
the statement. This written statement will be reviewed by registry staff to verify compliance with the law. Registry staff must remove prohibited<br />
identifying information or return the statement to the registrant for compliance. Please type, write clearly or print in dark blue or black ink. A<br />
lined and unlined page are provided for your convenience. Both pages may be used.<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
_______________________________________________________________<br />
Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Records, 605 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL 62702-5097<br />
VR 161a (rev. 01/2000) Printed by Authority of the State of Illinois P.O. #145083 3M 9/04 IL482-1015
Illinois Department of Public Health<br />
ILLINOIS ADOPTION REGISTRY APPLICATION<br />
Section C - Optional written statement<br />
This optional written statement is authorized for release as specified in Section C of the Adoption History Application. This statement is limited<br />
to the space (two pages) provided on this form and cannot include information that would identify any person other than the registrant submitting<br />
the statement. This written statement will be reviewed by registry staff to verify compliance with the law. Registry staff must remove prohibited<br />
identifying information or return the statement to the registrant for compliance. Please type, write clearly or print in dark blue or black ink. A<br />
lined and unlined page are provided for your convenience. Both pages may be used.<br />
Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Records, 605 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL 62702-5097<br />
VR 161b (rev. 01/2000) Printed by Authority of the State of Illinois P.O. #145083 3M 9/04 IL482-1015
Illinois Department of Public Health<br />
ADOPTED PERSON REGISTRATION IDENTIFICATION<br />
(Enter all known information.)<br />
I, ________________________________________________________, state the following:<br />
(present name) (first) (middle) (last)<br />
Adoptive name _____________________________________________________________<br />
(first) (middle) (last)<br />
<strong>Adopted</strong> person’s<br />
birth name (if known)____________________________________________ Race _________<br />
(first) (middle) (last)<br />
Date of birth _____________ Sex _____ Hospital (if known) ___________________________________<br />
City and state of birth ________________________________________________________<br />
Name of<br />
adoptive father ______________________________________________ Race _________<br />
(if applicable) (first) (middle) (last)<br />
Name of<br />
adoptive mother _____________________________________________ Race _________<br />
(if applicable) (first) (middle) (maiden) (last)<br />
I was adopted through________________________________________________________<br />
(name of agency)<br />
(city and state of agency)<br />
I was adopted privately________________(state “yes” if known)<br />
I was adopted in____________________________________________<br />
(city and state)<br />
_______________<br />
(approximate date)<br />
Other identifying information___________________________________________________<br />
__________________________________________________________________________<br />
Name of<br />
birth mother_________________________________________________<br />
(if known) (first) (middle) (maiden) (last)<br />
Name of<br />
birth father _________________________________________________<br />
(if known) (first) (middle) (last)<br />
Race _________<br />
Race _________<br />
Provide name(s) at birth and ages of siblings(s) having a common birth parent with adopted<br />
person (if known). If more than one sibling, please give information requested below on<br />
reverse side of this form.<br />
__________________________________________________________________________<br />
(first) (middle) (last)<br />
Date of birth__________________________________ Sex__________ Race _________<br />
(or approximate age)<br />
City and state of birth ________________________________________________________<br />
Name(s) of common<br />
birth parent(s) _______________________________________________ Race _________<br />
(first) (middle) (last)<br />
_______________________________________________<br />
(first) (middle) (last)<br />
Race _________<br />
(Please note that (i) you must be at least 21 to register and (ii) if you were not born in Illinois, then you must submit a certified<br />
copy of your birth certificate.)<br />
_________________________________<br />
(date)<br />
_________________________________<br />
(signature of adopted person)<br />
_________________________________<br />
(printed or typed name of adopted person)<br />
Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Records, 605 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL 62702-5097
Illinois Department of Public Health<br />
STATE OF ILLINOIS ADOPTION REGISTRY<br />
INFORMATION EXCHANGE AUTHORIZATION<br />
I, ______________________________________, state that I am the person who completed the<br />
Registration Identification; that I am ______ years of age; that I hereby authorize the Department of<br />
Public Health to give the following person(s) (check as applicable) ❏ birth mother ❏ birth father ❏ birth<br />
sibling ❏ adopted/surrendered person ❏ adoptive mother ❏ adoptive father ❏ legal guardian of an<br />
adopted or surrendered person ❏ birth aunt ❏ birth uncle ❏ adult child of a deceased adopted or<br />
surrendered person ❏ surviving spouse of a deceased adopted or surrendered person ❏ all eligible relatives<br />
the following information:<br />
(please check the information authorized for exchange)<br />
1. Only my name and last known address (as given below).<br />
2. A copy of my Illinois Adoption Registry application.<br />
3. A copy of the original birth certificate of the adopted person.<br />
4. A copy of the completed medical questionnaire.<br />
I am fully aware that I can only be supplied with information about the individual(s) who has duly executed<br />
an Information Exchange Authorization that has not been revoked. I can be contacted by writing to:<br />
(insert your own name, complete mailing address and telephone number<br />
or this same information for another person to contact)<br />
NAME<br />
STREET ADDRESS<br />
TELEPHONE NUMBER<br />
( )<br />
CITY STATE ZIP CODE<br />
Dated __________________________, _________<br />
(insert date)<br />
______________________________________<br />
APPLICANT’S SIGNATURE<br />
STATE OF______________________________<br />
COUNTY OF____________________________<br />
If adoption agency representative, please state title.<br />
____________________________________________<br />
Name of agency ______________________________<br />
City ________________________________________<br />
State _________________ ZIP code _____________<br />
I, a Notary Public, in and for the said county, in the state aforesaid, do hereby certify that<br />
_______________________________ personally known to me to be the same person whose name is subscribed<br />
to the foregoing Information Exchange Authorization, appeared before me in person and acknowledged that he/she<br />
signed such authorization at his/her free and voluntary act and that the statements in such authorization are true.<br />
Given under my hand and notarial seal on __________________________, _________<br />
(insert date)<br />
______________________________________<br />
SIGNATURE OF NOTARY<br />
Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Records, 605 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL 62702-5097<br />
VR 161.7 (rev. 2/2006) Printed by Authority of the State of Illinois P.O. #146101 3M 2/06 IL482-1017
Illinois Department of Public Health<br />
STATE OF ILLINOIS ADOPTION REGISTRY<br />
DENIAL OF INFORMATION EXCHANGE<br />
I, ______________________________________, state that I am the person who completed the<br />
Registration Identification; that I am ______ years of age; that I hereby instruct the Department of<br />
Public Health not to give any information about me to the following person(s) (check as applicable)<br />
❏ birth mother ❏ birth father ❏ birth sibling ❏ adopted/surrendered person ❏ adoptive mother<br />
❏ adoptive father ❏ legal guardian of an adopted or surrendered person ❏ birth aunt ❏ birth uncle<br />
❏ adult child of a deceased adopted or surrendered person ❏ surviving spouse of a deceased adopted<br />
or surrendered person ❏ all eligible relatives; that I do not wish to be contacted.<br />
(Insert your own name, complete mailing address and telephone number or this same information<br />
for another person you wish us to contact. This information is for administrative purposes only and will be<br />
used to provide written confirmation that this denial has been filed.)<br />
NAME<br />
STREET ADDRESS<br />
TELEPHONE NUMBER<br />
( )<br />
CITY STATE ZIP CODE<br />
Dated __________________________, _________<br />
(insert date)<br />
______________________________________<br />
APPLICANT’S SIGNATURE<br />
STATE OF______________________________<br />
COUNTY OF____________________________<br />
If adoption agency representative, please state title.<br />
____________________________________________<br />
Name of agency ______________________________<br />
City ________________________________________<br />
State _________________ ZIP code _____________<br />
I, a Notary Public, in and for the said county, in the state aforesaid, do hereby certify that<br />
_______________________________ personally known to me to be the same person whose name is<br />
subscribed to the foregoing Denial of Information Exchange, appeared before me in person and<br />
acknowledged that he/she signed such authorization as his/her free and voluntary act and that the statements<br />
in such authorization are true.<br />
(insert date)<br />
Given under my hand and notarial seal on __________________________, _________<br />
______________________________________<br />
SIGNATURE OF NOTARY<br />
Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Records, 605 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL 62702-5097<br />
VR 161.8 (rev. 2/2006) Printed by Authority of the State of Illinois P.O. #146100 3M 2/06 IL482-1020
(Enter all known information and add explanation/comments as necessary.)<br />
A. CONGENITAL IMPAIRMENTS<br />
Yes<br />
1. Club foot or any other orthopedic problem ❑<br />
2. Cleft lip or cleft palate<br />
❑<br />
3. Chromosome abnormality (explain)<br />
❑<br />
4. Down’s syndrome<br />
❑<br />
5. Muscular dystrophy<br />
❑<br />
6. Spina bifida<br />
❑<br />
7. Congenital heart defect<br />
❑<br />
8. Tay-Sachs disease<br />
❑<br />
9. Fetal alcohol syndrome<br />
❑<br />
10. Trisomy 21<br />
❑<br />
11. Ambiguous genitalia<br />
❑<br />
12. Hydrocephalus<br />
❑<br />
13. Macrocephalus<br />
❑<br />
14. Amencephalus<br />
❑<br />
15. Microcephalus<br />
❑<br />
16. Other (explain)<br />
❑<br />
B. ALLERGIES<br />
1. Eczema or other skin condition<br />
❑<br />
2. Hay fever or other allergy<br />
❑<br />
3. Drug allergy (to what drugs?)<br />
❑<br />
4. Other (explain)<br />
❑<br />
C. EYE AND EAR DISORDERS<br />
1. Blindness, glaucoma, color blindness or ❑<br />
other visual problems<br />
2. Deafness or other ear problems<br />
❑<br />
3. Other (explain)<br />
❑<br />
D. BLOOD AND CIRCULATORY DISORDERS<br />
1. Hemophilia<br />
❑<br />
2. Sickle cell anemia or trait<br />
❑<br />
3. Anemia<br />
❑<br />
4. Hypertension (high blood pressure)<br />
❑<br />
5. Stroke<br />
❑<br />
6. Heart attack<br />
❑<br />
7. Arthritis<br />
❑<br />
8. Kidney disease<br />
❑<br />
9. Other (explain)<br />
❑<br />
E. RESPIRATORY DISORDERS<br />
1. Asthma<br />
❑<br />
2. Tuberculosis<br />
❑<br />
3. Emphysema<br />
❑<br />
4. Cystic fibrosis<br />
❑<br />
5. Bronchial pulmonary disposia<br />
❑<br />
6. Other (explain)<br />
❑<br />
Illinois Department of Public Health<br />
ILLINOIS ADOPTION REGISTRY – MEDICAL QUESTIONNAIRE<br />
No<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
If answering “yes” to any item, specify item number (for example, A2, B4, etc.) and indicate self or family member.<br />
Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Records, 605 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL 62702-5097
F. HORMONAL DISORDERS<br />
1. Diabetes<br />
2. Thyroid disorder<br />
3. Other (explain)<br />
Illinois Department of Public Health<br />
ILLINOIS ADOPTION REGISTRY – MEDICAL QUESTIONNAIRE<br />
Yes<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
No<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
If answering “yes” to any item, specify item number (for example, A2, B4, etc.) and indicate self or family member.<br />
G. MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL DISORDERS<br />
1. Schizophrenia<br />
2. Manic depressive (bi-polar)<br />
3. Clinical depression<br />
4. Substance abuse (adopted person or birth parent)<br />
(list type and explain)<br />
5. Obsessive-compulsive disorders<br />
6. Eating disorders<br />
7. Drug usage<br />
8. Autism<br />
9. Other (explain)<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
H. MALIGNANT DISORDERS<br />
1. Cancer (specify site)<br />
2. Tumors<br />
3. Hodgkin’s disease<br />
4. Other (explain)<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
I. NERVOUS SYSTEM DISORDERS<br />
1. Multiple sclerosis<br />
2. Huntington’s disease<br />
3. Cerebral palsy<br />
4. Seizures or convulsions<br />
5. Epilepsy<br />
6. Other (explain)<br />
J. INFECTIONS AND HOSPITALIZATION (explain)<br />
1. Repeated attacks of fever with known infection<br />
2. Repeated severe infection requiring<br />
hospitalization<br />
3. Hospitalizations or operations, if any<br />
4. HIV/STDs (herpes, syphillis, etc.)<br />
5. Hepatitis<br />
6. Other (explain)<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
K. DEVELOPMENTAL DELAYS<br />
1. Speech challenged<br />
2. Learning challenged<br />
3. Mentally challenged<br />
4. Physically challenged<br />
5. Other (explain)<br />
L. OTHER IMPAIRMENTS, DISEASE OR DISORDERS<br />
(metabolic, genetic or other) [Including ALS (Lou<br />
Gehrig’s disease), gout, obesity, etc.] (list and explain)<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
❑<br />
RELEASE: On the Information Exchange Authorization Form, the registrant may authorize the release of the information<br />
from this medical questionaire.<br />
DISCLAIMER: <strong>The</strong> Illinois Department of Public Health cannot guarantee the accuracy of medical information<br />
exchanged through the Adoption Registry as the information is submitted by the registrants, not the Department.<br />
Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Records, 605 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL 62702-5097<br />
VR 161.9 (rev. 05/2000) Printed by Authority of the State of Illinois P.O. #145082 3M 9/04 IL482-1018
Notice of Privacy Practices<br />
Receipt and Acknowledgment of Notice<br />
Client Name:_____________________________________________<br />
DOB: ___________________________________________________<br />
SSN (Optional):___________________________________________<br />
I hereby acknowledge that I have received and have been given an opportunity to<br />
read a copy of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>’s Notice of Privacy Practices. I understand that if I have<br />
any questions regarding the Notice or my privacy rights, I can contact Merrilee<br />
Hepler, Vice President, Human Resources & Administration and Risk<br />
Management Officer, located at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Cradle</strong>, 2049 Ridge Ave., Evanston, IL,<br />
60201, 847-733-3223.<br />
_________________________________________________________________<br />
Signature of Client<br />
Date<br />
_________________________________________________________________<br />
Signature of Parent, Guardian or <strong>Person</strong>al Representative Date<br />
__________________________________________________________________<br />
*<br />
If you are signing as a personal representative of an individual, please describe your<br />
legal authority to act for this individual (For example, power of attorney).<br />
Client Refuses to Acknowledge Receipt:<br />
_________________________________________________________________<br />
Signature of Staff Member<br />
Date<br />
Mac HD:Users:jsutherland:Desktop:downloads:HIPAA Receipt & Ackn#4233E4.doc