On November 7, 2023, Associate Judge Lori DeAngelis presided over a significant event at the Gladney Center for Adoption in Tarrant County, where she finalized the adoptions of 24 children into 22 families. This special day, known as Gladney Adoption Day, celebrates the completion of adoption journeys for families, coinciding with National Adoption Month, which occurs every November.
Judge DeAngelis expressed her enthusiasm as she aimed to complete ten adoptions before noon, stating, “We’re going to do 10 adoptions before noon, I believe.” In a makeshift courtroom, she engaged with families, inviting some of the new adoptees and their siblings to bang the gavel themselves. “I wish I could do this more often,” she remarked, highlighting the joy of the occasion, which stands in stark contrast to the usual criminal and civil cases typically heard in district courts.
The need for adoption in Texas is considerable, as noted 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 emphasized that while many families are hesitant about adoption, Gladney offers ongoing support throughout the process. “We have services we provide to families as they continue their journey,” he explained, adding that the organization has extensive experience and data to share with prospective adoptive families.
Gladney Center’s adoption numbers are on the rise, a positive trend in an otherwise challenging field. Melson attributed this growth to efforts focused on foster care, stating, “We’ve really put a lot of effort into the foster care piece here in Texas and looking at how we can grow that.”
The Gladney Center boasts a rich history dating back to 1887. In the 1920s, it gained recognition for providing adoption services to unwed mothers. The organization was immortalized in the 1941 Oscar-winning film “Blossoms in the Dust,” which tells the story of its founder, Edna Gladney. In a significant development in 2024, the center expanded its operations by partnering with an East Coast agency, enhancing its national and international presence. Melson noted, “We’re now in 11 countries,” indicating the organization’s growing resources and staff.
The annual Gladney Adoption Day event not only finalizes 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 stated, further emphasizing the event’s community-building aspect.
As the day concluded, the atmosphere was filled with joy and hope, marking a pivotal moment for many families and children. The Gladney Center continues to play a vital role in addressing the adoption needs within Texas and beyond, reinforcing its mission to support families and children alike.
