Q: How do I know which adoption agency to select? A: Select an accredited adoption agency, like The Villages. Accreditation indicates that the agency has undergone extensive and rigorous review by trained examiners from peer organizations. Accredited agencies operate their programs at the "best practice" level of standards. Also, make certain that the agency is licensed. Agencies should be licensed by the state to provide adoption services. Q: What is the agency's role in adoption? A: All prospective adoptive families must have a family preparation and assessment (home study) completed by a state-licensed child placement agency that employs state-licensed social workers. Q: What happens after the adoption is final? A: The Villages is available to provide post-adoption support services for all families. International adoptions typically require post-adoption reports, sometimes for up to three years after the adoption is finalized. Q: Why should I choose The Villages to assist with my adoption? A: The Villages is licensed by the state of Indiana and is fully accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Children and Family Services, (COA). In addition, all of our social workers have been trained in current methods for adoption. Monthly support groups for parents and children are offered after you adopt. Finally, The Villages operates offices located throughout Indiana, which means you can receive the service you need in your own or nearby community.