On November 7, 2024, the Gladney Center for Adoption facilitated a heartwarming event that brought together 24 children and 22 families during its annual Gladney Adoption Day. Associate Judge Lori DeAngelis presided over the proceedings in a makeshift courtroom, successfully finalizing ten adoptions before noon. This event, held in honor of National Adoption Month, marks a significant milestone in the adoption journeys of many families.
Judge DeAngelis expressed her enthusiasm for the occasion, stating, “We’re going to do 10 adoptions before noon, I believe.” The celebratory atmosphere contrasted sharply with the usual legal proceedings typically seen in county district courts, filled with felony and civil cases. “This is a good day,” she remarked, as she invited some of the newly adopted children and their siblings to take a turn at banging the gavel.
The need for adoption remains critical in Texas, as highlighted by Mark Melson, President and CEO of the Gladney Center. According to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, approximately 4,000 children were awaiting adoption in the state during the fiscal year 2024. Melson acknowledged that many families hesitate to pursue adoption, but emphasized Gladney’s commitment to providing ongoing support. “We have services we provide to families as they continue their journey,” Melson noted, citing the organization’s extensive experience and data on effective practices.
The Gladney Center has seen growth in its adoption numbers, which contrasts with broader trends in the adoption field. Melson stated, “We’ve really put a lot of effort into the foster care piece here in Texas and looking at how we can grow that.” Founded in 1887, the Gladney Center gained national recognition in the 1920s for its services to unwed mothers. A fictionalized account of its early history, the Oscar-winning film “Blossoms in the Dust,” brought further attention to the organization’s namesake, Edna Gladney.
In 2024, the Gladney Center took a significant step in its history by partnering with an East Coast-based agency, expanding its geographic presence. Melson reported that the organization now operates in 11 countries, enhancing its national and international reach while also growing its staff and resources.
Gladney Adoption Day not only celebrates completed adoptions but also fosters connections among families navigating similar journeys. “This lets the families come out and play, meet each other and really celebrate,” Melson explained, highlighting the importance of community during the adoption process.
The event underscores the ongoing need for adoption services in Texas and the vital role organizations like the Gladney Center play in supporting families and children alike. As Judge DeAngelis concluded the day’s proceedings with a smile, she affirmed the significance of these moments, stating, “I wish I could do this more often.”
