Using a Paid Searcher
Lezli, Hi,
My question is about paid searchers. I am a Bmom searching for my child, and I really want to hire a paid searcher since I have exhausted my other options. I am willing to do just about anything, and pay anything, but I need help. I have heard some are excellent, but others are horror stories. Lately I have heard mostly the horror stories. Please help me!!
Nancy-aaa
Dear Nancy-aaa,
The choice to hire a searcher is a personal one. Many people in the Triad are adamant that one should never pay anyone to help you locate someone. I am not of that school. I think of it this way: you can wash and wax your own car 'free' but it takes a LOT of time, OR you can take it to the carwash and have it all done
for you for a fee.
I always recommend that new seekers first check out the Search Angel site to see what is available in their area and to see who may be able to assist them. There are volunteers as well as carefully screened professionals listed there.
Another way to find a searcher or volunteer for your area is to join an eGroups or other mailing list and learn from others. List members will also be able to endorse professionals who have helped people in that area.
I DO have a problem with people who are able to get your information for you and then dangle it in front of you demanding $$$, especially if the advice was not even requested. Regrettably, this does happen.
Also try posting a request to the VSN. The Volunteer Search Network is a group of volunteers who have come together to offer our services to people
touched by adoption who need search help. They make no profit on services, it is on a cost-only basis. Volunteers charge only what it costs them to help you.
Personally, I am listed with Search Angels and am a VSN volunteer. I have helped many people, at no cost to them, but it HAS cost me. So should
anyone offer to help you, offer to reimburse them. Expenses like gas and copies do add up.
The first step in your search process should be to register with the ISSR. The International Soundex Reunion Registry is the world's largest mutual consent reunion registry and is a free service. If you have already registered, consider updating your registration if you have any new information. You can request a free
registration form via mail, telephone, or download one from their new Web site.
I.S.R.R.
P.O. Box 2312
Carson City, Nevada 89702-2312
(702) 882-7755
www.isrr.net
Best wishes,
Lezli
Lezli Adams
AskBmom
found daughter Julie on 3/18/1999
born 10/10/1968 in Ohio
adopted in Indiana now in Texas
Leave no stone unturned.
