We were lucky to catch up with Nelda Hunt recently and have shared our conversation below.

Nelda, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear the story behind how you got your first job in field that you currently practice in.

My journey in the field began in 2016 when I worked at a local social services office in my community. At the age of twenty-seven, I had a truly humbling experience as an adoption petitions worker, where I interviewed and assessed prospective adoptive parents to understand their reasons for wanting to foster to adopt. The majority sadly acknowledged infertility challenges, but proudly shared their desire to be a parent through a different way. Talk about a total shift in perspective because, at the time, my primary focus was centered around advancing within the company; I had no idea so many couples often struggled to conceive when trying to start a family, but I was committed to the position’s requirements, as I help secure adoption placements for countless children in my community. Without a doubt, this role led me to the private sector of adoption, where I worked as an adoption assistant to a local private attorney to further my passion for adoption. Then, I transitioned on to private-agency adoptions; and in 2019 the decision to pursue a career in social work was effortless, as it would allow me to continue doing meaningful work that supports all types of individuals, children, and families. Overall, I’m overjoyed with the outcome of my first job being in the field job that I practice now because it’s where I found the greatest satisfaction in being a public servant to others. I have pledged to continue serving people by assisting them wherever possible.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

As a biological mother of three with a passion for adoption, my desire to view a different perspective of adoption is what prompted me to learn as much as I could about the adoption process, as it related to private-agency adoptions. Early in my profession, I mainly worked with adoptive parents who were interested in adopting, providing them with the guidance, support, and reassurance they needed until their finalization could be completed. However, somewhere along the way, I began to understand the difficulties that biological parents have when expressing their reasons for choosing adoption to prospective parents during the matching phase. The connected feelings and an even deeper need to understand “why” adoption was the better option were so strong that I opted to move into case management, where I supported the biological parent’s needs without judgment. During this time, I can confidently say this change made it all worthwhile because I was able to provide outstanding assistance and personable service to all persons involved; biological and prospective adoptive parents.

Fast forward to 2021, I began writing a manuscript for a story about open adoption to give birth mothers “their” voice. In 2022, I self-published my debut book, A Loving Choice, A Story About Open Adoption, to help speak to the behind the scene moments that are often not acknowledged during the adoption process; and to help educate young readers about open adoption since all families are created the same; while also highlighting birth parents’ bravery and strength when placing a child for adoption.

Lastly,, Caucasian and Brown versions of my book are available to promote self-representation for younger readers and their families. Along with that, I have four adoption-themed writing journals that promote the positive elements of adoption, since the adoption process inspired each journal theme, for example, “One Amazing Birth Mother,” “The Beauty of Adoption,” etc. All of which, are available for purchase on Amazon.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

Yes, without hesitation; because being a social worker has afforded me numerous opportunities to lean into my leadership rather than step back! And, above all, I recognize the vital importance of being accountable where it counts the most, being intentional in my efforts, and hoping to make a difference in the lives of others in some way.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

That’s an easy one: treat people with respect first and foremost! As a social worker, it is essential to use our professional values and ethics to guide and educate others, but more importantly, extending Grace and compassion to all is key because it ensures we are focusing on the true meaning of “dignity and worth of the person” even in the worst of circumstances. Without a doubt, this has been the most helpful beneficial approach that has carried me through the profession.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.NeldaHCreates.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neldahcreates
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nelda-hunt-msw-csw-35363060