RESOURCES • REFLECTION• CONNECTION
Chana Recommends
Books, voices, and resources that have shaped my understanding of identity, belonging, adoption, relationships, and human connection.
My understanding of The Art of Belonging has been shaped by the relationships I've built with people from around the world. Through those relationships, I've come to know people with a remarkable range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Together, they have continually expanded and challenged my understanding of myself and others. What began with family and friends from both non-Jewish and Jewish communities later expanded to include adoptees, birth parents, adoptive parents, and others across the adoption constellation.
Nearly every conversation has shaped my thinking in some way. Some have affirmed what I believed. Others have challenged me to see the world differently or reminded me that thoughtful people can sincerely disagree. No single perspective can represent every story, and adoption experiences are as diverse as the people who live them. That diversity is one of the reasons I've chosen to share a variety of voices and resources on this page.
This page is not intended to be an exhaustive list, but rather a curated collection of books, organizations, and resources that have come into my life through personal experience, relationships, and conversations with others who have found them meaningful. Created by adoptees, birth parents, adoptive parents, clinicians, researchers, and advocates, these resources have contributed to my ongoing learning about adoption, identity, belonging, relationships, and human connection.
Whether you are an adoptee, birth parent, adoptive parent, family member, or someone simply seeking to better understand these experiences, I hope these recommendations encourage continued learning, thoughtful conversation, and deeper connection.
Like the journey itself, this collection will continue to grow and evolve.
Community Connection & Support
For Korean American Adoptees
Korean American Adoptees Facebook Group
A welcoming online community where Korean adoptees connect, share experiences and resources, and support one another.
Why I recommend it
One of the greatest gifts of this community is realizing you're not alone. Simply reading the questions, stories, and conversations of other Korean adoptees can create an immediate sense of understanding and belonging.
Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/KoreanAmericanAdoptees
Why I recommend it
325KAMRA holds a special place in my own story. During the COVID-19 pandemic, members of my birth family learned about the organization's outreach efforts and encouraged my birth mother to submit her DNA—without either of us knowing that we would one day be reunited.
In the midst of my reunion, I connected with its founder, who graciously answered my many questions. I submitted my own DNA. Through that process, I received the letter my birth mother had written when she first submitted her DNA—a priceless gift that became another meaningful piece of my story.
Learn More: https://www.325kamra.org/
325KAMRA
A nonprofit organization dedicated to reuniting Korean adoptees with their biological families through DNA testing, search assistance, and family reunification support. In addition to providing free DNA kits, 325KAMRA actively travels throughout Korea—including smaller cities and rural communities—to educate families about DNA testing and encourage biological relatives to participate in the search and reunion process.
For Intercountry Adoptees
IAMAdoptee
An online platform created by and for intercountry adoptees that provides mental
healthsupport, first-person narratives, educational resources, and community connection.
Why I recommend it
I appreciate IAMAdoptee's commitment to centering adoptee voices while providing
practical support, advocacy, and accessible resources for intercountry adoptees.
I personally know the creators of this platform.
Link: https://iamadoptee.org/
For Orthodox Jewish Adoptees
Yasfeinu
A community that offers religious Jewish adoptees opportunities to build connections, foster meaningful conversations, and create support networks while navigating questions of identity, family, and belonging.
Why I recommend it
I’ve connected with the only Orthodox Jewish adoptee community of its kind. Yasfeinu provides a unique space where adoptees can explore both faith and adoption with others who understand the intersection of those identities.
Connect: yasfeinu@gmail.com
For Adult Adoptees & Birth Parents
Catholic Charities Post Adoption Support Group
An online support group facilitated by an experienced adoption social worker that provides a safe space for adoptees and birth parents to share their experiences. The group meets online every 6–8 weeks.
Why I recommend it
I've experienced this group firsthand and have found it to be a thoughtful, compassionate space where adoptees and birth parents can listen, learn, and process together.
Connect: ewarnock@cc-md.org
Advocacy & Adoptee Rights
Adoptee voices have long advocated for greater transparency, access, and recognition of adoptee rights. These resources highlight efforts toward meaningful change.
Petition for Access to Records
An advocacy effort calling for greater access to birth records and
meaningful adoption reform for Korean adoptees.
Why I recommend it
I personally know the creators behind this effort and deeply respect their
commitment to advocating for transparency, justice, and adoptee rights.
https://secure.everyaction.com/05xuVX9o0USu68aFTT_ELw2#_ftn1
Financial Support Opportunities
Many adoptees encounter financial barriers while pursuing healing, reunion, travel, therapy, or identity-related opportunities. These programs may help offset some of those costs.
Overseas Korean Adoptees (OKA)
A program supported by the Korean government that gives overseas Korean adoptees opportunities to visit Korea, connect with other adoptees, and explore Korean culture and identity.
Why I recommend it
Although I haven't personally participated in this program, I've spoken with adoptees who have found it to be a meaningful opportunity for connection, cultural exploration, and personal growth.
Learn more: Contact your Korean Embassy.
Direct Email: Reach out to the event organizers directly at okafuture@korea.kr for upcoming schedules and registration.
IAMAdoptee Therapeutic & Wellness Subsidy
Financial assistance designed to help intercountry adoptees access therapy,
mental health care, and wellness services.
Why I recommend it
I know the people behind this initiative and appreciate their commitment to making
mental health support more accessible for intercountry adoptees.
Learn more: https://iamadoptee.org/wellness-subsidy/
Support Their Work: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=MJTAWQP3HDD8W
Recommended Reading
For Adoptees, Birth Parents, Adoptive Parents, & Allies
Adoption Unfiltered - by Sara Easterly, Kelsey Vander Vliet Ranyard, and Lori Holden
Honest conversations from adoptees, birth parents, and adoptive parents that explore adoption through the lived experiences of members of the adoption constellation. Through personal stories and educational insights, this book offers readers a deeper understanding of the complexities, challenges, and shared humanity within adoption.
Why I recommend it
This resource provides language for experiences that can be difficult to describe, expands understanding, and serves as an excellent springboard for meaningful conversations that can bridge differences. I’ve met Sara and appreciate her commitment to bringing together multiple perspectives within the adoption constellation while encouraging curiosity, empathy, and deeper listening.
Learn more: https://adoptionunfiltered.com/
Purchase the book here.
For Adoptive Parents
Reclaim Compassion - by Melissa Corkum and Lisa Qualls
A compassionate guide for parents that explores how shame, stress, and emotional patterns can impact relationships, while offering practical tools to cultivate self-compassion, emotional awareness, and deeper connection.
Why I recommend it
I've had the privilege of getting to know Melissa Corkum and appreciate her commitment to helping parents move from shame toward compassion and connection. This book offers valuable insight and practical tools for parents seeking to better understand themselves, strengthen relationships, and create a more connected family environment.
Learn more: https://risetoregulation.com/
Purchase the book here.
A Continuing Journey
Belonging isn't something we arrive at once and for all. It's something we continue creating together throughout our lives.