Today is Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, and Maxine Chalker, Founder and President of Adoptions From The Heart tells us about her journey as an adoptee entrepreneur.
The Adoption Journey to Entrepreneurship
Maxine’s journey from adoption to entrepreneurship is truly inspiring. As an adoptee, her adoption experience played a pivotal role in shaping her path. It fueled her passion for child welfare and ultimately led her to venture into entrepreneurship. She started the first open adoption agency on the East Coast. Maxine firmly believes that her ability to create positive change stems from her personal adoption journey.
Advocating for Open Adoption
Maxine ‘s desire toward advocating for open adoption was deeply rooted in her closed adoption and her work in the child welfare system. Driven by personal experiences, she transitioned towards promoting open adoption as she saw the need for it.
Throughout her advocacy, Maxine emphasized the benefits that open adoption could offer to all members of the adoption triad. Notably, she navigated this mission with sensitivity. She recognizes and respects the valid perspectives of adoptees who might not share the same inclination toward openness. Maxine’s objective was to redefine the adoption process. She strives for transparency that could enhance the lives of adoptees, adoptive parents, and birth parents alike.
Proudest Achievement
One of Maxine’s proudest achievements is the acceptance of open adoption. Initially met with apprehension, Maxine persevered and proved that open adoption can be a successful and fulfilling experience for all parties involved.
For adoptees aspiring to become entrepreneurs, Maxine’s advice is simple yet powerful. Believe in yourself, be fully committed, and embrace the journey wholeheartedly. She encourages adoptees to immerse themselves in the world of entrepreneurship, as it offers endless opportunities for growth and personal fulfillment.
In honor of National Adoption Month, Maxine urges the adoption community to expand their acceptance and embrace diversity. She encourages anyone considering adoption to explore the benefits of open adoption and challenge any initial fears by educating themselves more about it and its benefits.
