A Surrogate’s Journey That Sparked a Movement: The Story Behind Modern Family Surrogacy Center
For many people, surrogacy becomes part of their story when they begin searching for ways to grow their family. But for Cora Jenson, founder of Modern Family Surrogacy Center, surrogacy began with a moment of unexpected inspiration—one that would ultimately lead to helping more than 525 babies enter the world and supporting hundreds of women on their own surrogacy journeys.
Today, the agency stands as a leader in ethical, relationship-centered surrogacy. But its roots go back to something far simpler: a conversation at a child’s soccer game more than 15 years ago.
How Our Founder First Became a Surrogate
Cora’s surrogacy story didn’t begin in a clinic or an office. It started on the sidelines of a soccer field, watching her oldest son play. Another mom leaned over and quietly mentioned her “surro twins” would be joining her next week. That one sentence changed everything.
“I remember thinking… what? I had never even heard of surrogacy in that way,” she recalls. “I was fascinated. I asked her to tell me everything.”
She went home and began researching endlessly. Having grown up outside California, she hadn't been exposed to surrogacy, but the more she learned, the clearer things became. She loved being pregnant. She knew her own family was complete. And she felt deeply drawn to helping someone else experience the joy of parenthood.
After the birth of her last child, she reached out to a local agency and soon matched with intended parents from Los Angeles—a couple dreaming of starting a family. She carried boy-girl twins who recently turned 15.
“That journey was life-changing,” she says. “After that pregnancy, something in me shifted. I just knew I was meant to keep going.”
She soon left her traditional job to work full-time at the agency. After several more years—and several more surrogacy journeys of her own—another calling became impossible to ignore.
How Modern Family Surrogacy Center Was Born
Near the end of her employment at the agency, the couple she was carrying for at the time encouraged her to follow a bigger vision.
“They told me, ‘You should do something. You should write a book or start your own agency.’ One of them jokingly said, ‘You’d be stupid not to.’ It sounds funny, but that conversation lit a fire in me.”
She knew she was meant to build something new—something warmer, more personal, more supportive, and more grounded in lived experience. Something that didn’t feel like a conference room, but like home.
Starting the business wasn’t forced. It flowed.
“It was the easiest thing I’ve ever done,” she says. “Once I made the decision, everything aligned organically. I reached out to people I knew in the industry, and before long, Modern Family was real.”
Fifteen years later, the agency has supported more than 525 births across the U.S. and around the world—including families in Spain, China, Italy, Germany, and Australia.
Why Lived Experience Matters
One thing that sets Modern Family Surrogacy Center apart is its commitment to ensuring every staff member has been a surrogate.
“It’s essential to me that the women supporting our surrogates truly get it,” she explains. “Who better to help you through the shots, the appointments, the emotions, and the excitement than someone who has already walked that path?”
Intended parents recognize the value, too. From medical records to match preparation to the emotional nuances that come with each step—having a team of experienced surrogates ensures a level of understanding that can’t be taught.
The Special Bond With Intended Parents
Over the years, Cora’s relationships with her intended parents have blossomed into something profound.
“I’m like an auntie to all my surrogate babies,” she says with a smile. “We’ve had slumber parties, birthdays, baptisms—I’ve traveled to New York every year to see one of the families. My kids know their kids. We’re like extended family.”
One of her favorite memories happened at a birthday party for the twins she had carried:
“The little girl came up to me and said, ‘Cora, I was in your tummy!’ Her dads had told her the story of her birth again that morning. Moments like that stay with you forever.”
Advocating for Ethical, Inclusive Surrogacy
Cora is also passionate about addressing common surrogacy myths—particularly the idea that women become surrogates for money or might want to keep the baby.
“It’s simply not true. These women are educated, stable, compassionate mothers. They love helping others, and they love being pregnant. And when the journey is complete, they’re excited to return to their own families. Surrogacy is about giving—not taking.”
She is equally passionate about inclusivity. Modern Family Surrogacy Center proudly supports all intended parents, whether gay, straight, single, or married.
“We believe that everyone should have the right to become a parent if they choose to. Period.”
What Intended Parents Should Look for in an Agency
After 13+ years in the industry, Cora has clear advice for intended parents choosing an agency:
Choose an agency that does not hold your money.
The agency should not write legal contracts for either party.
Neutrality matters—your agency should be a guide and advocate, not a financial intermediary.
Ensure your legal team specializes in third-party reproduction law, not general practice.
Responsiveness and expertise are non-negotiable.
“When you partner with the right agency, the right lawyer, and the right clinic, the entire experience is smoother, safer, and more successful.”
A Mission That Continues to Grow
Today, Modern Family Surrogacy Center remains rooted in the same warmth and purpose it began with: real relationships, real support, and real understanding. Cora’s journey from curious soccer mom to four-time surrogate to industry leader is a testament to the power of compassion and courage.
As she puts it, “I knew I was meant to do this. And every single family we help reminds me why.”
