Giggles, excited screams, somersaults, and painted faces greeted two judges and an abundance of amazing volunteers at our Third Annual Gladney Adoption Day. November is recognized as National Adoption Month around the country, and Gladney hosted a Texas-sized celebration. Conference rooms were converted into court rooms, and our usually quiet campus became a festival of bounce houses, kid-friendly activities, fun food, and a surplus of photo opportunities.

More than 300 guests were treated to a superhero welcome, in addition to the Sheriff’s mounted posse. Despite cold temperatures, every child wanted some time with the horse before warming up inside with cocoa, games, and balloon animals.  

While the day was full of high energy fun, we shared quieter moments as well. In the courtrooms, the judges spent individual time with each family, providing a solemn moment to acknowledge the important step they were taking together. These emotional  adoption ceremonies included plenty of hugs, pictures, and tears of pure joy from family and friends. In one day, we finalized more than 30 children’s adoptions, including adoptions from foster care, domestic infant adoptions, and international adoptions. 

Over 100 volunteers and staff eagerly raised their hands to help make this special day successful, as well as our sponsors DentaQuest; Brown Pruitt Wambsganss Ferrill & Dean, P.C., Attorneys at Law; the Junior League of Fort Worth; Pop N Cream; Project Linus; and Starbucks. The day was truly magical. We look forward to continuing the tradition of kicking off National Adoption Month by celebrating children and families, as they finalize their adoptions surrounded by their greater Gladney Family.