Over the last decade, Amy Imber has helped several families grow throughout Florida and Dr. Phillips. As Executive Director, Amy has helped more than 500 families across Florida realize their dream of becoming parents. Located in Dr. Phillips, her agency specializes in home studies, the legal process all families must go through to become eligible to adopt. And no one knows it better than her.
How long have you been working in adoption services?
I have worked in the adoption field for 19 years. I started my agency in
September 2008.
What is a typical day at the office like for you?
While I do not visit clients daily, there is work to be done every day! We serve all of Florida and I have three social workers that work with me across the state — working in Fort Lauderdale, Tampa and Jacksonville. If I am not visiting with client families, I am in my office pushing paper. An adoption home study generates a lot of paperwork so I am always returning calls and emails.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Visiting our client families after their babies come home is one of my favorite parts of the job. Post placement visits are required so that a family can finalize the adoption in court. During these visits, we discuss the family’s adjustment. Afterwards, we generate reports that are used for their final court hearing.
These are the moments in which we get to support our clients and see their hopes and dreams turn into a reality.
What is the best part of working in Dr. Phillips?
I love seeing my clients around town. I love running into families at Publix or out at dinner. They are always so excited to flash their kid’s photos and show them off!
What is one of your favorite memories of working with a family in Dr. Phillips?
I have a local family that had a very challenging adoption. We were able to secure the adoption by supporting and encouraging them to seek their own legal counsel outside of the placing agency. I love keeping in touch with them. My son came to the office with me for “Take Your Child to Work” day a couple of years ago and got to spend time with their little girl which was so wonderful. They are very special to our family.
What advice would you give to a local family looking to adopt?
You can adopt a baby in a reasonable period of time if you are proactive in your adoption. It’s all about being educated on the process and knowing about reputable resources. It happens again and again and again. Ask any of the 500 families we have helped. They will tell you the same thing, it’s possible.