On November 7, 2025, the Gladney Center for Adoption in Tarrant County, Texas, celebrated a significant milestone as Associate Judge Lori DeAngelis finalized the adoptions of 24 children into 22 families. The event, known as Gladney Adoption Day, is held annually to mark National Adoption Month and provides a joyful conclusion to many families’ adoption journeys.
Judge DeAngelis worked diligently to complete ten adoption cases before noon, exuding enthusiasm as she welcomed families into the makeshift courtroom. “We’re going to do 10 adoptions before noon, I believe,” she remarked, embodying the uplifting spirit of the occasion. This event starkly contrasts the typical court proceedings, which often revolve around felony, criminal, and civil cases. “This is a good day,” DeAngelis added, highlighting the positivity surrounding the adoption process.
The need for adoption in Texas remains significant. 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. Mark Melson, President and CEO of Gladney, expressed concerns about the hesitance many families feel regarding adoption. He emphasized the center’s commitment to providing ongoing support to families throughout their adoption journey. “We have services we provide to families as they continue their journey,” Melson stated, highlighting Gladney’s extensive experience and data that inform their approach.
Gladney’s adoption numbers are on the rise, a positive trend that differs from the overall adoption landscape. Melson noted the organization’s focus on improving foster care systems in Texas, 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.” This strategic emphasis aims to foster a supportive environment for both children and families.
Established in 1887, the Gladney Center has a rich history, gaining recognition in the 1920s for its adoption services for unwed mothers. The organization inspired the Oscar-winning film “Blossoms in the Dust,” which tells the story of its founder, Edna Gladney. In a significant development for the organization, Gladney expanded its reach in 2024 by partnering with an East Coast agency, enhancing its national and international presence. “We’re now in 11 countries,” Melson confirmed, illustrating the organization’s growth and commitment to serving a broader community.
Gladney Adoption Day is not only a formal occasion but also a community event that fosters connections among families. Melson noted that this gathering allows families to meet, engage with one another, and celebrate their shared experiences. “This lets the families come out and play, meet each other and really celebrate,” he said, emphasizing the importance of building a supportive network.
As the celebrations concluded, Judge DeAngelis invited some of the newly adopted children and their siblings to participate in a symbolic act of banging the gavel, sealing their new beginnings. “I wish I could do this more often,” she remarked, reflecting the joy and significance of the day for all involved.
The Gladney Center continues to play a vital role in addressing the need for adoption in Texas, ensuring that each child has the opportunity to find a loving home. As the organization looks to the future, it remains committed to supporting families and children in their journeys, working to make a lasting impact in the community.
