Children bring joy, but the journey of adoption can be filled with challenges and costs. In the United States, over 113,000 children in foster care were eligible for adoption in 2021, with 53,500 children finding forever homes, as reported by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute. People pursue adoption for various reasons, from fertility issues to the desire for single-parent or same-sex couple families. Adoption expenses can range from $2,500 for foster care adoption to $60,000 for private or international adoption, according to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. The adoption process in the US, involving legal proceedings and fees, presents hurdles for the one to two million prospective adoptive parents nationwide.
Employers play a pivotal role in supporting adoptive families. In 2023, 34% of employers offered paid adoption leave, a 6% increase from 2022, while 25% provided paid leave for foster child adoption, a 3% rise, according to the SHRM Employee Benefits Survey. Rita Soronen, president and CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, noted an increase in employers recognizing diverse family structures and offering accommodating benefits. The foundation’s 2023 report highlighted a 23.5% rise in financial reimbursement for adoption, averaging $14,831, along with nine weeks of paid leave.
American Express, listed among the 100 adoption-friendly workplaces, expanded its parental benefits package in January 2017, acknowledging diverse paths to family expansion. Tammy Yee, VP of global well-being and benefits at American Express, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting adoption through comprehensive benefits. Employees receive 20 weeks of paid leave for new parenthood, along with adoption or surrogacy reimbursement of up to $35,000, usable twice during their tenure. To assist employees through the complex adoption process, American Express offers a family concierge service and access to family counselling.
Regular evaluations ensure American Express benefits remain responsive to employees’ evolving needs. Recruitment and onboarding materials highlight the company’s family planning benefits, recognizing their significance in attracting and retaining talent. Yee shared heartening stories of successful adoptions facilitated by American Express benefits, underscoring the positive impact on employees navigating the adoption journey. Adoption, though intricate and emotionally demanding, becomes more accessible and manageable with employer support, ultimately fostering happier outcomes for families.
