Becoming a VSN Volunteer

Thank you for your interest in the Volunteer Search Network (VSN).

VSN volunteers only provide tasks up to their comfort and knowledge levels. Volunteers should familiarize themselves on basic information on searching in their state especially your state's laws. For more information, visit https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/systemwide/laws-policies/statutes/infoaccessap/

As a volunteer you will be added to the VSN Email list. This is where the requests for search help will come from. Requests are sent to the mail list by region. There are four US regions, Canada, and International. You will only receive mail specific to your area unless you choose otherwise. The requests will be labeled by region, state, and city to make it easy for you to distinguish who you can help. Just delete all other requests.

If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out the below form. Thank you very much.

DNA Resources and Websites


There are many companies that now provide DNA testing, such as AncestryDNA, 23andMe, Family Tree DNA, My Heritage, etc. GedMatch allows individuals, using some DNA testing resources, to upload their results to GedMatch’s larger combined database. DNA testing can assist an adoptee in verifying information they already have or in finding new information about their DNA connections.

VSN Volunteer Form

Thank you, 
Mary Conklin
Volunteer Search Network Coordinator