Warwick Life host Scott Nerney talks with author and genetic genealogy coach Gerri Berger.

Genetic genealogists use DNA evidence and traditional genealogical records to solve family tree mysteries. Hear how DNA testing helped Gerri find her birth father, how she became a coach, why coaches are helpful when children contact their birth parents, when to contact a genetic genealogist, and which ethnic groups are underrepresented in present-day DNA databases.

Visit Gerri’s website and learn about her book Living in the Know.

RI is one of eleven states that allows adult adoptees (age 18 and over) unrestricted access to their own original birth certificates.

If you were adopted, born in Rhode Island, and were age 18 as of July 8, 2021, you can request a non-certified copy of your original, pre-adoption birth record from the State Office of Vital Records. (Non-certified birth records cannot be used for passports, driver's licenses, etc.)

Adult adoptees (age 21 and over) who were born and adopted in Rhode Island; birth parents who surrendered a child for adoption in Rhode Island; adult genetic siblings of adoptees; adoptive parents of deceased adoptees; and parents or adult siblings of deceased birth parents can register with the Family Court Voluntary Adoption Reunion Registry.

Warwick Life highlights what’s special in Warwick, Rhode Island and helps listeners get the most from this seaside community. Warwick Life is produced by Scott Nerney and presented by the ⁠Varnum Memorial Armory Military & Naval Museum⁠.

Write to [email protected].

Music by Tess Der Manouelian.