Meet Adoption Advocates’ administrative assistant, Bella Russo! When not studying or creating art, Bella keeps our Austin adoption office organized and running smoothly.

What do you do in your role?
As an Administrative Assistant, I help the staff keep up with all of the paperwork and organization that go into the adoption process. This means that I do a lot of scanning, filing, running to the post office, and any other job that might pop up.

What inspired you to work in adoption?
I’ve known Rory, our Executive Director, for a long time and really loved the mission of Adoption Advocates. When Rory mentioned that she needed help around the office, I jumped at the chance to be a part of the operation! I think open adoption is so important and I admire the people who work in this field, and that really made the choice to work here an easy one.

What would you say is the most rewarding part of your job?
I love seeing the final steps in the process – parents and kids meeting and then eventually the adoption being finalized and the celebration that comes with that! Even from my end, which is mostly filing legal documents, the joy shines through.

What is the most challenging part of your job?
Keeping up with the copious amounts of paperwork that goes into adoption. And removing staples. Lots of staples.

What advice would you give expectant parents who are about to begin their adoption journey?
This process can be extremely hard, but everyone on staff truly cares about you and is here to help and support you.

What advice would you give adoptive parents who are about to begin their adoption journey?
Again, we are here to help at every part of the process! Also, get as much expertise out of the staff as you can, they are the best at what they do.

What can clients expect when they work with you?
I’ll be the one sending over medical records, the occasional information sheet or update, and helping coordinate between Adoption Advocates and the attorneys we work with. I try to be as straight forward and timely as possible, and since I work with sensitive information, I am always vigilant about personal privacy. I am always more than happy to clarify, problem solve, follow-up– whatever you need!

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I love to draw, swim and hike around Lady Bird Lake, go to loud concerts, “solve” crossword puzzles, and throw themed parties with my friends!

What is your favorite quote?
“To pay attention, this is our endless and proper work.” -Mary Oliver

Do you have any hidden talents?
I’m really good at finding the perfect Tupperware that will exactly fit leftovers.

Do you have any pets?
One lazy cat, who I love dearly (even though she’s pretty indifferent about me).

What’s one thing you couldn’t live without?
My family and friends (of course), and also streaming music on Spotify.