What Sets Us Apart…
For 40 years, Adoptions From The Heart (AFTH) has had a foundation that has set it apart from other adoption agencies. Began by an adoptee in 1985, Maxine Chalker integrated her personal experience into her vision for the agency. AFTH’s unique approach to adoption was shaped by centering the experiences of adoptees in addition to understanding the perspectives of birth and adoptive parents. Our agency proudly employs professionals from all parts of the adoption triad, including Board members, ensuring a collaborative effort that continues to enrich and shape our organization.
AFTH is a private, 501C3 nonprofit infant and young child-placing adoption agency. Education and support are the heart of what we do to foster life-long learning, and empathy within the adoption community. We have developed platforms such as AFTHtv to diversify adoption conversations and hold a space for the often unheard voices so we can continue growing and learning from one another.
Since its inception, AFTH has been a leader in open adoption on the East Coast, pioneering the practice long before it became mainstream. This dedication to progressive practices extends to our commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community and inclusionary practices, resulting in AFTH earning yearly recognition from the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). Even in the wake of the overturning of Roe v. Wade, AFTH is proud to continue offering unbiased options counseling. Our goal is to empower expecting parents by offering comprehensive education about all available choices, ensuring they can make decisions free from pressure or bias, in line with our inclusive ethos.
AFTH continues to remain true to Maxine Chalker’s original vision and is unwavering in our commitment to advocacy, ensuring every individual’s voice is heard and respected and that our services remain a beacon of support and empowerment for all members of the adoption triad.
