On November 7, 2024, a significant milestone was achieved as Associate Judge Lori DeAngelis presided over the Gladney Adoption Day, successfully finalizing the adoptions of 24 children to 22 families. The event, held at the Gladney Center for Adoption in Tarrant County, was part of the celebrations for National Adoption Month, marking the culmination of many families’ journeys toward adoption.
Judge DeAngelis, known for her dedication and compassion, was determined to complete ten adoption cases before noon. “We’re going to do 10 adoptions before noon, I believe,” she expressed with enthusiasm. The atmosphere was filled with joy as she invited some of the newly adopted children and their siblings to join her at the bench, allowing them a chance to bang the gavel themselves. “I wish I could do this more often,” she remarked, highlighting the uplifting nature of the occasion.
Addressing the Adoption Need in Texas
The event served as a reminder of the pressing need for adoption in Texas. According to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, approximately 4,000 children awaited adoption in the state for the fiscal year 2024. Mark Melson, President and CEO of the Gladney Center, emphasized that many potential adoptive families often feel hesitant. He stated, “We have services we provide to families as they continue their journey,” showcasing Gladney’s commitment to ongoing support. “We have a lot of experience and data on what works and we share that with them.” This approach has contributed to an increase in Gladney’s adoption numbers, a positive trend not observed widely in the adoption sector.
In recent years, the Gladney Center has focused on enhancing foster care services throughout Texas, reflecting their dedication to meeting the needs of children and families alike. “We’ve really put a lot of effort into the foster care piece here in Texas and looking at how we can grow that,” Melson explained.
A Legacy of Support and Expansion
Founded in 1887, the Gladney Center has a rich history, initially gaining recognition for its adoption services aimed at unwed mothers during the 1920s. The organization was famously depicted in the Oscar-winning film “Blossoms in the Dust,” starring Greer Garson, which fictionalized the story of its namesake, Edna Gladney.
In 2024, the Gladney Center took a monumental step by partnering with an East Coast-based agency, significantly expanding its geographic presence. “We’re now in 11 countries,” Melson noted, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to reaching more families in need of adoption services.
Gladney Adoption Day not only celebrates individual adoptions but also fosters a sense of community among families navigating similar journeys. “This lets the families come out and play, meet each other and really celebrate,” Melson added, illustrating the event’s role in building connections and shared experiences.
As families gathered to celebrate their new beginnings, the day served as a hopeful reminder of the power of community and the importance of providing loving homes for children in need. The commitment from organizations like the Gladney Center continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of adoption in Texas and beyond.
