What is the “ARE?”

Mission WV Adoption Resource Exchange (ARE)

When families make the decision they want to adopt, one way they can learn about the youth is Mission WV’s Adoption Resource Exchange (ARE). 

The ARE is a website that has a listing of the West Virginia youth that want an adoptive family. If you are a youth wanting a family, you can be listed on the Mission WV ARE. The listings usually have a photo and a short description (narrative) of what your interests are and what kind of family you would be interested in. It allows families to see you and ask your worker for information about you. If your worker believes the family would be a good fit for you, they will share the family information with you so you can discuss together if you would like to meet the family.

Youth Media Consent    

It is important to Mission WV and your DoHS worker that you feel okay about how we use your information. Your worker will ask you to read and sign a form that explains all the ways Mission WV can work to find families for you. You will be able to agree or disagree to the ways we can find families for you. If you change your mind after signing your consent, just let your DoHS worker know and they will let you make changes on your consent form. It is up to you how we use your information.

Photographs

Photos are a good way to let families know about you. Your worker will make arrangements to take photos of you that can be used on the ARE photo listing. On the day of your photos wear an outfit you would want families to see you in. The photos are important but so is enjoying the photo opportunity. You may be able to help pick the photo for the ARE listing. Your worker may even agree to take extra photos, including a fun one for you to keep. 

Youth Narrative

The narrative is a short description of what you want families to know about you. What do you like to do, your favorite things and what are you looking for in a family. The narrative will be on the ARE listing. When a family inquires to learn about you, they can read your narrative. We do ask the families to register with us before we give them your information. We want to protect your confidentiality. 

Youth Statement

Sometimes youth enjoy writing and want to write a statement themselves. This statement is usually about what they want the family to know about them and what you want to share with families. If you want to write a statement just let your DoHS worker know. This could be your CPS, Youth Service or Adoption Worker.