ICSA
Resources
You can find ICSA "How-To" Guides, translation services, and more.
ICSA How-To Guides
DNA
Other
Translation Services
These are translation services that some ICSA members have used and can recommend. Be sure to get all Chinese text in an electronic document (such as Word or Google doc) to allow you to easily use it later if you need it.
More Resources
Search Projects
The Roots of Love originally focused on searching in Chongqing Municipality, but is now China-wide. They work with professional searchers in China, cover the costs of DNA testing for all birth parents who come forward, and offer search grants for adoptees. DNA testing is through 23mofang and uploaded to GEDmatch; STR testing is used if needed. Check their website for a list of found birth families.
Nanchang Project originally focused on searching in Jiangxi Province, but is now China-wide. Their leadership team is made up of adoptees and adoptive parents. They offer regional and small group searches at an affordable cost and cover the DNA testing for all birth parents who come forward. DNA testing is through 23mofang and uploaded to GEDmatch. As of 2023, they've had 40+ DNA matches. Check their website for a list of found birth families.
Other Resources
Searching for Your Chinese Birth Family book by Wesley O. Hagood, 2021. Detailed instructions on steps to try when searching for Chinese birth family, including mapping out family trees from DNA matches. Final chapter details the successful search for daughter Mia's birth family.
Facebook Groups a comprehensive list of all the groups focused on searching and specific provinces and orphanages.
Searching Resources from China’s Children International
DNA Painter predicted relationships based on shared DNA
Baidu Maps China's Google Maps equivalent. Use street view to explore your home town! Search by Chinese characters for best results.
