AdKids is a scam. My husband and I were mislead by this company and we are now out $595.00.
We signed our baby daughter with this agency back in Jan. Of 2004 when we responded to a letter we received in the mail. We met a Mr. Donald Joseph at this agency's fancy office in Manhattan where we were very impressed by everything we saw including the many poster sized ads hanging around the office, claiming to be clients/models of AdKids. Mr. Joseph was very friendly and seemed quite excited about the possibilities for our then 10 month old daughter. He stated that she was "perfect" for Adkids (after viewing some snapshots and performing a brief personality test) but he was quick to stress that he couldn't guarantee work for her which we understood.
When I asked about the fee, Mr. Joseph pointed out that it was to cover the cost of the photos, every 6 months for a 5 year period of time. When I asked if we could have the night to think about it, he said "no" we would have to sign then or not at all. My husband and I, afraid that we would loose a great opportunity for our daughter, stupidly paid and signed. Mr. Joseph claimed that to be a parent in this business, split second decisions need to be made and this was one of them.
Needless to say, it is now July and we have yet to receive one call for an audition/go-see for our daughter. I questioned Mr. Joseph about this back in April and he stated that we may never receive a call, since he cannot predict what his clients want. Just months before our daughter was "perfect" and this man was so personable and friendly with us now, he spoke with me in a much different tone and told us not to expect much.
This conversation with Mr. Joseph led me to do some research. I have found some postings from other concerned parents who signed their kids with this company and are receiving no calls. I am in touch with one parent who cancelled the agreement within the 3 day period stated on the contract but Mr. Joseph refuses to give the money back. Mr. Joseph has also refused to give us our money back despite my pleas and demands.
One piece of interesting information here is that, the week or so after we signed with Adkids, the welcome letter we received was signed by a "Don Voight", We met with a Don "Joseph" who said Adkids was his company. To make a long story short, more research I have done online shows that former employees of Kids.com (recent scam that was shut down) have gone and started Adkids. Coincidentally, the former V.P. Of Kids.com was "Don Voight" My suspicion is that Mr. Joseph may indeed be Mr. Voight but I have no way to prove it.
I am doing anything to expose this company. I have filed complaints with The Federal Trade Commission, NY Dept. Of Consumer Affairs, The BBB and NY State Consumer Protection Board. I am also seeking legal advice.
I hope this prevents anyone from signing with this or any agency that wants money from you. Don't do it.
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