Introducing Older Children to America

World Links International Adoption Agency offers hosting programs that bring children ages six and older from Eastern European and Asian orphanages to the United States for an enriching and unforgettable two to four week experience.

This program enables these children to learn everyday social skills, to be a part of a family, to receive an introduction to American culture and, hopefully, to find a permanent home with a loving America family.

Our host programs have been a tremendous success so far and are making a real difference in the lives of so many children. In fact, 97% of the children who’ve participated in the past six host programs have been successfully placed with a permanent loving family here in the United States.

Minimizing the Uncertainty of Adopting an Older Child

Most families or individuals considering adoption want to adopt an infant or toddler. Sadly, many prospective parents are intimidated by the thought of adopting older children. All too often, these potential parents have heard stories or seen negative news items that have made them apprehensive or afraid of what may be involved when adopting an older waiting child.

The goal of our host program is to lesson these fears. Once presented with the opportunity to host an older waiting child, potential adoptive families can evaluate first-hand the challenges – and amazing rewards – of such an experience

World Links’ International Host Programs are a great opportunity for potential parents and children to bond with each other. They also provide a valuable opportunity for individuals to make sure this type of adoption is the right decision for their families – before making a lifetime commitment.

What Does It Take to Be A Host Family?

Both single individuals and married couples – with or without children – can serve as host families. We only ask that you provide a loving, stable home environment for one or more waiting children.

Host families must also be in good physical and mental health and be willing to provide the basic necessities such as food and clothing for their host child. As a host, you may be required to assist with accommodations of your child's escort. Host families must have a complete criminal record check, state child abuse clearance and supporting host family documents. Families must also agree to a home visit by a licensed social worker. In some areas of the country, host families may be required to have a completed home study prior to the arrival of their host child.

What World Links Provides Host Families

• World Links’ Karing 4 Kids Host Program coordinators hold an orientation meeting and parent workshop that host families are required to attend.

• Host family will be provided with child’s medical information, pictures and sociability assessment.

• We arrange for adult escorts to accompany the children to and from the United States

• We provide travel health insurance to cover the cost of emergency medical needs (such as an illness or accident requiring hospitalization).

• We provide translation services (although language is not a significant barrier).

• World Links will match you with a mentoring family (a prior host family that has adopted children). Your mentor will be invaluable in guiding you and sharing their experiences with the program.

• World Links will arrange all necessary “in-country” services, including visas, plane tickets and other transportation needs.

• During the children’s visit, there will be at least one mandatory social event for the host families and their visiting children.

• World Links’ staff is always available to assist you and the child so that you have the most positive experience possible.

To learn more about this program, please contact us by filling out a contact form or call at 1-866-236-7870

Click below to learn more about our Host Programs.

Summer Host Program

Winter Host Program