Colombia Adoption Pathways
Spence-Chapin began its adoption program in Colombia in 1994 to help find permanent, loving families for children in need of adoption. Today, we offer four distinct pathways to grow your family through adoption in Colombia.
All Families Program
This program matches eligible children with families of all backgrounds in the United States.
Heritage Program
This program matches eligible children with families of Colombian descent living in the United States.
Host-to-Adopt
Families interested in adopting older children and sibling pairs host children in their homes for 3-5 weeks.
Waiting Child Program
This pathway advocates for older children, sibling groups, or those with special needs who are eligible for adoption now.
About Adopting from Colombia
Colombia, located in the northwestern region of South America, is a culturally rich and vibrant country. Spence-Chapin’s Colombia adoption programs welcomes a wide range of prospective adoptive parents—including singles, married couples, members of the LGBTQ+ community and a specialized pathway for individuals of Colombian descent living in the United States. Children in need of adoption vary in age and needs, with many waiting for permanent, loving families across all age groups.Â
Meet Our Colombian Representative
Carmen Elena Tamara Garcia has worked with Spence-Chapin families for over a decade. Carmen Elena manages all processes within Colombia for your family and is a vital partner in your adoption at all phases. Her work on behalf of your family begins even before your dossier is submitted.
Carmen Elena holds degrees in both psychology and law, with a focus on family law. She supports adoptive families through the legal process in Colombia and is able to offer emotional support in the journey of new parenthood.
Carmen Elena is always happy to recommend restaurants, playgrounds, attractions, and events to fill your time in Colombia! She splits her time between Bogota and Cartagena.
The Spence-Chapin Way
What makes Spence-Chapin unique is our lifelong commitment to adoptees, birth families, and adoptive parents. Beyond placement, we offer comprehensive post-adoption support through professional therapy services, specialized support groups, and community programming designed for every stage of life. From early childhood to adulthood, our services provide a trusted space to process identity, build resilience, and connect with others who share the adoption experience, ensuring no one ever has to navigate their journey alone.
Ethics In International Adoption
Spence-Chapin is a U.S.-based, Hague-accredited adoption agency, committed to upholding the highest ethical standards in international adoption. The Hague Convention and the Universal Accreditation Act were established to ensure that intercountry adoption is transparent, ethical, and centered on the best interests of children.
To support ethical international adoption, the U.S. Department of State designates an Accrediting Entity —  the Center for Excellence in Adoption Services (CEAS) —to provide monitoring and oversight of adoption service providers. As a Hague-accredited agency, Spence-Chapin is committed to maintaining the highest standards of ethics, transparency, and child-centered care.Â
Upcoming International Adoption Events
May
6
06:00pm – 07:00pm
Introduction to Adoption from Costa Rica
May
12
05:00pm – 06:00pm
Introduction to Adoption from South Africa
May
13
05:00pm – 06:00pm
Introduction to Adoption from Colombia
May
18
08:00pm – 06:00pm
Colombia Host-to-Adopt Program Info Session
May
22
12:00pm – 01:00pm
Introduction to Adoption from Costa Rica
Jun
10
06:00pm – 07:00pm
Introduction to Adoption from Costa Rica
Hear from our clients
South Africa Adoption
Caribbean Adoption
International Adoption
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