Great Parents, Great Life!

by Amy Sharp

After graduating from the University of Houston, Dr. Debbie Richards worked for Child Protective Services (CPS). Debbie says, “I really didn’t like working in investigations, and I found the adoption part of CPS the most rewarding. I left CPS and went on to earn a Doctorate in social work from the University of Southern California.”

Twenty years ago, Debbie launched Rainbow of Love (ROL) in Fort Bend County as a domestic adoption agency. Today, behind a motto of “Great Parents, Great Life!” ROL has grown to a full-service social service agency, including counseling, parenting classes, youth homeless assistance, and temporary shelter.

The adoption program at ROL is special because adoptive parents are required to attend training, go through background checks, medical exams, and have references. Only a limited number of prospective adoptive parents who apply for a home study are approved. ROL looks at the quality of the parent. “We want to give the birth mom (and father) peace of mind knowing their baby will be in really good hands,” explains Debbie. Birth parent(s) can select adoptive parents from a list of choices (if desired), and after placement can regularly view photos of the child through a special program facilitated by ROL. ROL does not discriminate based on religion, culture, or gender. While most adoptions are semi-open, ROL does still allow closed adoptions, and it works with the State of Texas to place foster children into adopted homes.

The youth homeless assistance program at ROL helps homeless youth or young mothers find a shared living space, often paying for the first couple of months so the individuals don’t have to go to a shelter. The counseling program assists youth going through a crisis. Parenting classes are offered for those referred by CPS or those divorcing and referred by a judge. “Parents also come in and take the classes just to be a better parent. All are welcome!”