Maggie Alsworth and her husband, Shad, live in a rural community in western New York with their 4 children. They adopted their daughter, Pala, from India in 2009.

"Being a Caucasian family living in a small community and choosing to adopt a child from India can certainly invoke questions and stares that may be uncomfortable for some, but we use that as an opportunity to educate and advocate for adoption.

Adoption is a huge part of our extended family, both domestically and internationally. Pala has brought us far more joy then we could have ever imagined and we could not be happier with the care that our daughter received during her first year of life by Ms. Roy and her staff at ISRC. We hope that we can show others that the color of a child's skin or the fact that they are not biological does not make them any less of 'YOUR' child. If each of us can touch just one family then we are making progress. I share our adoption story every chance I get hoping to help a loving family take the next step.

We spent a lot of time researching adoption agencies before choosing Dillon. We found that Dillon International provided adoptive families the most resources and support to make the whole adoption experience a positive one, before and after coming home. Combining their outstanding reputation and commitment to orphans, our decision was made. I spoke with many adoptive families through our 2 year process and the Dillon staff by far provides the best communication regarding the process and updates on the children.

Not only has Dillon helped us to grow our family but we have formed many lifelong friendships with other Dillon families and staff members. Dillon International has changed our lives! 

I am currently planning a NY Dillon Weekend for all Dillon families during the third weekend in August. This event will bring Dillon families together and give parents and children a chance to unite (or reunite for some) with other adoptive families."