Spence-Chapin provides adoptive families with programming for every life stage to help them thrive. From toddler playgroups to identity workshops to mentorship programs, our team of dedicated and caring professionals is there to help guide you and your family and connect you to a supportive community.
We are always adding great new programming for families!
For updates on all of our programming and upcoming events, sign up for our newsletter or visit our events calendar!
Discover the strength of community at Spence-Chapin, where our adoptee-led programs offer support for adoptees. We deeply understand the unique challenges and emotions within the adoptee community. With a commitment to empowerment, cultural competence, and advocacy, our adoptee-led programs provide a space where adoptees can find support, a sense of belonging, shared identity, and a network of individuals who truly understand their journey.
It is so important that our little ones know they are not alone in their journeys. Our Children’s Programs create a community for young adoptees to connect with peers who share similar experiences.
All adopted children ages 0-5 are welcome to join the fun at this fun, community-building event. Kids can freely play with toys, games, and art supplies under the supervision of Spence-Chapin staff and volunteers while parents mingle and enjoy breakfast.
All adopted children ages 6-9 are invited to Play Cafe, a play group with a purpose. Here, older children explore their adoption identities through fun and creative activities led by a Spence-Chapin social worker. Parents again get to mingle and enjoy breakfast.
Our Lifebook events allow children ages 5+ to document their adoption story in a special and personal way! Spence-Chapin provides all the materials and prompts to guide a meaningful experience during which parents and children collaborate to create a book of the adoptee’s life story.
A huge part of adolescence is discovering personal identity. Community programming can provide a place just for teens and tweens to gain guidance, support, and a positive sense of self, thus preparing them for a successful transition into adulthood.
Adopted tweens ages 10-12 are welcome to join in on exciting monthly events throughout NYC! Mentorship is an adoptee-led program where adolescents can make new friends and talk about adoption topics with a group who really gets it.
Adopted teens ages 13-18 are welcome to join in on helpful discussion-based days and exciting monthly events throughout NYC. Mentorship is an adoptee-led program that helps adopted young adults grow up confidently with a strong support system.
This free virtual community-building group is open to adoptees ages 13-17 located anywhere in the world! Participants can join to listen to peers’ stories, make new friends, and find support from a group full of adopted teens just like them in a space created just for them.
At Spence-Chapin, we believe support does not come with an expiration date! Intentionally designed for adult adoptees, our programming creates a supportive community where individuals with common journeys can connect and engage.
This free virtual community-building group is open to adoptees ages 18+ located anywhere in the world! Participants can join to listen to others’ stories, form connections, and find support from a group full of adopted adults just like them in a space created just for them.
This free virtual community-building group is open to adoptees ages 18+ located anywhere in the world! Participants can join to listen to others’ stories, form connections, and find support from a group full of adopted adults just like them in a space created just for them.
Being an adoptive parent creates its own set of unique adventures and challenges that are always changing. Virtual community-developing groups allow for adoptive parents to hear and learn from one another in a safe, discussion-based space.
Check out our events calendar to see when the next relevant parent group event is. We host groups for adoptive and prospective parents of children ages 10-12, parents of children ages 13-18, and parents who are part of the LGBTQ+ community.
Making an adoption plan is an act of courage that deserves ongoing support. Birth Parents at any stage in their placement journey can find a community of those who took similar steps through our programming.
Making an adoption plan is an act of courage that deserves ongoing support. At Spence Chapin, we provide free counseling to help process relinquishment grief and evolving open adoption relationships. Through support groups, workshops, events, and resources, you can find connection and understanding. Your voice and story matter – let us support you before, during, and after adoption.
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