Our Story
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about our site and how it came to be. We truly hope that in some small way this site may contribute to the wonderful world of adoption that created our family.
The HopeToAdopt.com Dream
The desire for our founders to help others in adoption has been present since their own adoption experience. They first became involved as volunteers with their agency finding ways to help other adoptive families wade their way through the adoption process. They both believed that adoption did not have to be so hard or intimidating and they wanted to make that belief a reality for others.
As the adoption world started to explore the Internet many exciting developments were born. The concept of online registries and adoption sites were especially intriguing for them. It seemed that this was one way to help diminish the fears and hardships of the adoption process. However, more time and experience brought to light many disappointments. The fees were too high, the sites too cluttered with distracting adds and content, and the process far too complicated. So with their professional background in computer programming and web development, the founders saw a great need for improvement. As they discussed the needs, viewed the many online site options from adoption sites to independent free sites the answer was clear: help was needed and they could offer it.
With the advantage of combined skills and personal experience the concept of HopeToAdopt.com solidified. Learning from adoptive parents, birth parents and adoption professionals, the founders created a site model that met the needs they had defined. Finally, an adoption registry that made sense. One where middle men were eliminated and the desires of birth parents were met. A site that would empower any adoptive family and give direct and flexible information to birth parents. A site that would empower agencies and other professionals to help efficiently and effectively help their clients. A site with clarity, simplicity and purpose.
Development of the site began in early spring and was launched in August, 2000 - the dream becoming a reality.
The HopeToAdopt.com Founders and Creators
Blake and Holly designed, created and developed the site. The site functions under the parent company, Intechra LLC.
The couple wanted to give something back to the world of adoption. It is the first adoption registry of its kind developed by adoptive parents for adoptive parents.
Blake
Blake is a professional computer programmer and web developer. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science from Arizona State University and now earns a living doing what he loves. He has worked on numerous programming teams on several projects throughout the U.S. He has also developed entire programs and applications himself some of which include, AgDecisions, CopyGenie, Size-O-Matic, and AgSteals.com. He has just finished his first book which is being published by McGraw Hill and will be available in January 2001. HopeToAdopt.com owes it existence largely to Blake as the developer and programmer.
Holly
Holly enjoys the creative side of things. With experience as a licensed cosmetologist, graphic design specialist, web design specialist and instructor/trainer she maintains her creative abilities through application and diversity. She has enjoyed her roles over the years some of which include administrator, volunteer, trainer and business manager. She has instructed educational groups on the use of web development tools and programs and currently serves on a national volunteer board for and adoption organization. HopeToAdopt.com is Holly's baby, so to speak. It was her idea and her passion to bring it to pass. It is now her great joy to watch it grow.
