birth family search process

Complete the contact form and have clear copy of the following forms in Vietnamese and English translation to upload:

• Adoption Decree (aka Process Verbal)

• Child’s Birth Certificate

• Giving & Receiving Minutes (if available)

Once we receive the forms with the deposit, your search will be placed on our waiting list to begin Stage 2. 

Stage 1 - Engagement $100 USD

Stage 2 - Investigation $250 USD 

Stage 3 - Search $150 USD minimum

Additional Costs can include

• Additional travel; 3 days of travel is included in the Stage 4 price.
• DNA Testing: Depends on Company chosen
• Publicity during Stage 3

No. The fees and travel expenses will still be invoiced, as it covers the costs of  the search process; it is not contingent upon the outcome.

It is our opinion that birth parent(s) can request:

• Non-identifying information about the adopted person’s family and file check for updates
• Updated non-identifying information about the adopted person’s placement, the adoptive parent can refuse this request on behalf of the adopted person under 19 years of age.
• To have contact with the adoptive parents whether directly or with the agency as an intermediary. The adoptive parents can refuse this request.
• To have contact with the adopted person 18 years of age or older, either directly or with Catalyst Foundation acting as intermediary. The adult adoptee can refuse this request. The knowledge or consent of the adoptive parents is not required..

It is our opinion that adoptive parent(s) can request (for themselves or on behalf of the adoptee under 18 years of age):

•  Non-identifying information about either birth parent, including file check for updates.
• Updated non-identifying information about either birth parent. The birth parent can refuse this request.
• To have contact with one or both birth parents, either directly or with the Catalyst Foundation acting as intermediary. The birth parent can refuse this request.

It is our opinion that adult adoptees can request:

•  Non-identifying information about either birth parent, including file check for updates.
• Updated non-identifying information about either birth parent. The birth parent can refuse this request.
• To have contact with one or both birth parents, either directly or with the Catalyst Foundation acting as intermediary. The birth parent can refuse this request.

We attempt to reach the person directly if possible. We contact a family member on if it becomes necessary, and we do not violate and confidentiality in this process. 

Our purpose when we make contact is to represent ourselves as an organization associated to determine humanitarian needs. The birth parent is not told that at any time that you are searching until you give us permission.

Some of this depends upon what information you have decided to release to this person. The other party will also make decisions regarding preferences for contact. We are able to facilitate contact if needed, by forwarding letters, and/or helping to arrange phone calls, meetings, etc. for those who are not yet in direct contact with one another.

If your birth parent does not desire contact, we will honor their decision. We will attempt to gather updated health history from your birth family and provide that information to you, along with any other information your birth parent may provide. 

If your birth parent is deceased, we will attempt to contact a close relative if you desire contact with a relative.

We will make a diligent effort to transmit any medical information that may affect the mental or physical health of genetically related persons. This information is provided to the adult adoptee of the adoptive parent until the adopted person reaches 18 years of age.

Adult adoptee or adoptive parents of a child under 18 years of age, who wish to be notified of the death or terminal illness of a birth parent, must inform Catalyst Foundation of this desire, and must keep us informed of their current email. Then, if we receive verification of the death or terminal illness of the birth parent, this information will be passed on.

A birth parent that wishes to be informed of the death or terminal illness of the adoptee, must notify Catalyst Foundation this desire, and must keep us informed of their current address and telephone number. Then, if we receive verification of the death or terminal illness of the adoptee, this information will be passed on.

When embarking on a search for your birth family, providing some background about yourself can be a valuable first step in establishing a connection. We recommend composing a letter that introduces you without revealing identifying details in the initial correspondence. This approach allows for a gradual exchange of information, easing any potential overwhelm on both sides.

Here are some suggested topics to consider including in your letter:

• Description of your physical appearance and personality traits, including a photo if you wish
• Overview of your childhood experiences and educational background
• Insights into your interests and hobbies, how you spend your leisure time
• Details about your current family situation, whether it involves marriage or other significant relationships
• Explanation of the type of contact you're seeking (e.g., direct personal interaction, phone conversations, or written correspondence), along with any motivations behind your decision to initiate the search
• Any specific inquiries you may have, especially concerning health-related matters

Feel free to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. While these guidelines can serve as a helpful framework, please remember that the letter should ultimately reflect your own voice and preferences. We understand that composing this letter may be challenging, and we're here to support you throughout the process.