National Adoption Month 2024
Celebrating All Who Are Affected by Adoption
November is a meaningful time in the adoption community. National Adoption Month is a dedicated period to raise awareness about the critical need for adoptive families for children in foster care and to celebrate the stories of families formed through adoption. The roots of this observance trace back to 1976, when Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis proclaimed Adoption Week to spotlight the number of children in need of permanent families. In 1995, President Bill Clinton expanded it to National Adoption Month, transforming it into a nationwide effort to promote and advocate for the well-being of children through adoption.
National Adoption Month isn’t solely about finding homes for children; it’s also about honoring the diverse voices that shape the adoption community: adoptees, birth parents, and adoptive families. Each of these perspectives brings unique experiences, challenges, and celebrations.
Telling Their Stories
Adoptees, birth parents, and adoptive families are the heart of the adoption narrative. National Adoption Month is an opportunity to listen to, learn from, and uplift these voices.
Adoptees
Adoptees are central to every adoption story. This month provides a space to reflect on their experiences, which often involve navigating complexities of identity, belonging, and connection. Many adoptees share their journeys, both joyful and challenging, to educate and raise awareness. It’s essential to recognize and respect their voices as they work through their unique experiences.
Birth Parents
Understanding the experiences of birth parents in adoption is crucial. Their decision to place their child for adoption, often made with courage and selflessness, deserves recognition and support. National Adoption Month emphasizes the need for empathy, understanding, and resources for birth parents, such as counseling and a supportive community as they continue their journey post-placement.
Adoptive Families
Adoptive families have unique experiences and responsibilities, from navigating the adoption process to supporting the emotional and developmental needs of their adopted children. National Adoption Month celebrates the strength and love of these families and reminds them they are not alone. It also highlights the importance of ongoing education and post-adoption support.
How Gladney Supports Families
One of the leading voices in adoption, the Gladney Center for Adoption, offers robust support for families through its various programs: domestic infant adoption, international adoption, and foster care adoption. Each of these services is driven by Gladney’s mission to create bright futures for children through adoption.
Domestic Infant Adoption
Gladney’s domestic infant adoption program offers comprehensive support to expectant mothers, including counseling, resources, and guidance, while preparing prospective parents through education and training. Recently, Gladney held its annual Gladney Adoption Day event, a beautiful celebration where adoptions are finalized and families gather to mark the beginning of new, joyful chapters. Events like these are powerful reminders of the impact of adoption and the happiness it brings to growing families.
International Adoption
Gladney also facilitates international adoptions in nine countries: Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Bulgaria, Taiwan, Thailand, the Philippines, China, and Hong Kong. The organization provides personalized support throughout the adoption journey, preparing families for the cultural and logistical complexities involved. By advocating for children in these countries, Gladney ensures that families are well-prepared to offer loving and supportive homes.
Foster Care Adoption
Thousands of children in the foster care system are waiting for permanent families. Through the New Beginnings Program, Gladney connects these children with stable, loving homes. The organization also partners with the Heart Gallery of North Texas, a photo exhibit that raises awareness about children in foster care who are awaiting adoption. The Heart Gallery’s compelling images and stories inspire families to consider fostering and adopting. Gladney’s work in foster care adoption emphasizes the importance of creating safe, loving environments for every child.
National Adoption Month: A Call to Action
National Adoption Month is a time to reflect and act. Everyone can contribute to making a difference, whether by considering adoption, supporting someone who is, or advocating for children in need. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Learn About Adoption: Take time to understand the adoption process and the experiences of adoptees and birth parents. Gladney offers resources to help you navigate the intricacies of adoption and its impact on everyone involved.
- Share Stories and Advocate: Use your platform to raise awareness and advocate for children who need families. Sharing stories, participating in events, or engaging in conversations about adoption can inspire others to take action.
- Support Adoption Organizations: Organizations like Gladney work tirelessly to support families and children. By contributing or getting involved, you can help create more success stories and forever families.
Gladney’s Commitment to the Adoption Community
With over 135 years of experience, Gladney remains committed to creating bright futures through adoption. The organization’s compassionate and understanding approach has made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless children, birth parents, and adoptive families. By working together, we can continue to uplift this community and promote the welfare of children everywhere.
This National Adoption Month, consider how you can make an impact. Visit Gladney.org to learn more about supporting adoption, advocating for children, or starting your own adoption journey. Together, we can help build forever families and bring hope to children in need.
