Choosing to adopt internationally is one of the most meaningful decisions a family can make. It’s a path filled with anticipation, paperwork, cultural learning, emotional highs and lows—and ultimately, the creation of a forever family.

However, for many prospective parents, that path can feel uncertain. Questions arise:

  • Can I really adopt internationally and build a family?
  • How do I know which international adoption organization to trust?
  • What does a “successful” adoption really look like?

At Hopscotch Adoptions, we’ve had the honor of walking alongside hundreds of families who have embraced the challenges of international adoption and emerged with beautiful, life-changing stories. Below, we share what makes international adoption so special—and how real families, through partnership with a trusted agency, found their way home.

What Makes International Adoption So Transformational?

Adopting internationally isn’t just about expanding your family—it’s about building bridges across cultures, embracing difference, and offering a child love and stability that transcends borders.

Families who choose this path often speak of:

  • Deep personal growth through the adoption process
  • Meaningful connections to their child’s birth culture
  • A broadened worldview as they navigate systems, customs, and communities outside their own

And while every international adoption involves logistics—legal frameworks, documentation, and travel—what families remember most are the moments: first meetings, shared meals in a new country, and the quiet realization that this child is home.

Real Stories From Real Families

The best proof of success comes from those who’ve lived it. Hopscotch families have adopted children from countries like Bulgaria, Morocco, Ghana, Armenia, Ukraine, and Pakistan Their stories reflect the resilience of the process—and the deep bonds that form through it.

From Hesitation to Home: The Heidemann Family’s Journey

Matt and Elise Heidemann didn’t start their search with a country in mind—they started with Hopscotch. After several phone calls, they knew they had found an organization that was not only knowledgeable, but responsive and supportive.

Their journey to Bulgaria to adopt their daughter was filled with paperwork and waiting, but the agency’s team walked with them each step of the way. Elise shares:

“In an experience that can feel scary at times with all of the unknowns, we could trust Hopscotch to guide us. They provided so much support along the journey.”

Today, their daughter is thriving, and the Heidemanns remain advocates for international adoption, grateful for the care and transparency they experienced.

Braving the Unknown: Adoption During Conflict

For Phil and Kristie Graves, adoption from Ukraine in 2022 came with added uncertainty—the war had just begun. But even in the midst of global unrest, they found a lifeline in Hopscotch’s program director, Tonya Boggs.

“They stood as a beacon of hope… Hopscotch demonstrated unparalleled professionalism, unwavering dedication, and genuine care throughout the entire process.”

Despite the complexity, the Graves family brought their daughter Brizzy home safely. Their story stands as a testament to the power of ethical, experienced international adoption organizations in even the most difficult circumstances.

The Graves family came to Hopscotch as a trusted partner through the previous adoption of their beautiful daughter from Armenia, Karine.

Adopting with Cultural Intention: A Single Mother’s Story

A single mother, already parenting two biological children, chose to adopt from Morocco. She wanted an agency that respected her faith, her values, and her pace. Hopscotch’s team and in-country partners provided precisely that.

“Their experience, in-country support, reputation, and sense of urgency is what matters. Choosing any other agency will put you at risk.”

Her adoption journey brought not only a beautiful infant son into her family, but a renewed connection to culture and faith—and the peace of knowing she wasn’t doing it alone.

How International Adoption Organizations Support Families

Behind every success story is a support system that knows the process inside and out. International adoption agencies like Hopscotch, provide:

  • Legal Guidance
    Navigating the requirements of both U.S. and foreign governments with a strong working knowledge
  • Cultural Support
    Helping families embrace and preserve their child’s heritage through education and resources
  • Emotional & Practical Support
    From USCIS petitions, dossier preparation to travel logistics, to post-placement visits and adjustment
  • Ethical Commitment
    Hopscotch is a Hague-accredited agency, meaning families can trust in high standards of transparency and child-centered care

Advice from Families Who’ve Walked the Journey

Many families share the same pieces of wisdom:

“Ask questions. Learn everything you can. And trust your agency.”
— Hopscotch Parent

“Your child is out there—and the wait is worth it.”
— Hopscotch Mom

“It’s not about finding a perfect process. It’s about finding your child.”
— Hopscotch Dad

Let Your Story Be Next

Success in international adoption isn’t measured by how fast the process goes or how smoothly the paperwork flows. It’s measured in bedtime stories, in new family traditions, in a child’s first smile when they know they’re safe.

At Hopscotch Adoptions, we believe every family deserves a story worth sharing—and we’re honored to help write them. If you want to know more about the great team behind these success stories, you can read about them here: Meet our Hopscotch Team.

If you’re considering international adoption and want guidance grounded in experience, compassion, and ethics, we’re here to help you begin. Contact us today.