Adoption Option Council of Minnesota (AOCM) upholds adoption as a viable and loving alternative for those expecting a baby they are not prepared to effectively parent. We are convinced by both statistics and personal experiences that adoption can offer healthy outcomes for children and birth parents who might otherwise experience great difficulties.

The organization:
  - delivers accurate information about adoption
  - supports adoption as a courageous choice

The organization does not:
  - provide crisis pregnancy counseling
  - make referrals to any particular adoption agency
  - reflect any political or religious agendas

History
Originally known as the Adoption Option Committee Inc., this nonprofit was founded by a group of people who were concerned that adoption was not being presented as a viable choice for women facing an unintended pregnancy. The organization received its designation as a Minnesota nonprofit in June 1983.

Accomplishments
Each year, AOCM equips thousands of young people and professionals with accurate information about adoption.

To date, the organization has provided more than 1,000 birth parents with financial support (via their social workers) to help with medical costs, rent and other specific expenses, as a tangible sign of support.

Activities
Birth parent grants. Recognizing the courage of birth parents in Minnesota who have developed and carried through an adoption plan, AOCM works with adoption social workers in Minnesota to provide birth parents with financial assistance. The assistance covers at least partial costs of housing, medical or other necessities during a difficult emotional, physical and financial time. Sadly, many recipients have expressed that the grant is the only tangible act of encouragement that they have received.

Scholarships. Supported by funds given by a family in memorial of their adoptive father, the scholarship program helps birth mothers who are pursuing a college education.

Promotion. Online and in-person presentations enable AOCM to present accurate information about adoption to thousands of people across the state.

Please visit our Education & Outreach section to learn more about our services and to get involved in building better adoption awareness.