Gladney International

Gladney International Gladney’s International Adoption team helps waiting children worldwide find loving families.

Through guidance, advocacy, and support, we improve children’s lives through adoption and humanitarian aid.

Ten-year-old Felix from Bulgaria has made significant progress in his overall functioning over the past year and continu...
05/29/2026

Ten-year-old Felix from Bulgaria has made significant progress in his overall functioning over the past year and continues to grow and learn with the support of the people around him. He has age-appropriate physical development and intellectual functioning within the borderline range.

Felix attends a mainstream school with the support of a tutor and also participates in a Day Center with a therapeutic rehabilitation focus, where he works with a psychologist, speech therapist, and tutor. He recognizes and names basic colors, objects, and animals, and he also recognizes letters and numbers. He is able to maintain attention during activities like construction tasks, problem-solving, and coloring—which is great news for anyone brave enough to dump out a box of building pieces with him.

Felix is described as calm, well-balanced, and appropriate in his interactions with people and activities. No signs of anxiety or aggression are observed. While unfamiliar environments can make him feel insecure at first, he is able to adapt successfully with support and encouragement.

At school, Felix has an established circle of friends who he gets along well with. He shows kindness and a willingness to cooperate and participate in group activities.

If you are interested in learning more about Felix, contact us at [email protected].

From the L family, who welcomed their son home through adoption from India, comes a story of faith, perseverance, unexpe...
05/28/2026

From the L family, who welcomed their son home through adoption from India, comes a story of faith, perseverance, unexpected beauty, and the moment a long-held dream finally became reality.

I often find myself fumbling for words when I try to articulate our adoption story. It is a story filled with wonder, faith and mystery. I had the idea of adoption tucked away in my heart for as long as I could remember. The reality of children without families always felt personal to me. My husband and I started our family knowing we would try for biological children and ended up having two beautiful girls. When our second daughter was a little over two years old I had a dream of a little boy and knew it was a reminder of my longing to adopt. The decision felt scary because there is so much unknown in the adoption world and let's be honest……the financial part is very intimidating. But we chose to trust and have faith that it would all work out somehow. With lots of hope and a little nervousness we applied to adopt a little boy from India. We didn't know much about the country, but with having two children at home to think of we knew it was important to pick a country with a one time travel policy. Shortly after the journey of heartbreaks, studies, paperwork and invoices started I began to fall in love with the country as I researched. The culture, the colors, the food, the festivals………just so intriguing and beautiful. We also learned within that research that India has the highest number of orphans in the world. This statistic solidifying my mindfulness for us choosing India. Children belong in families. A year into the process we received an email that I will forever remember, a referral with a picture of our son. The sweet boy I dreamed about staring back at me. It's a feeling that is so hard to describe. Next thing I knew (although I won't take away from the hard work of mountains of paperwork), we were on a plane for 13 hours headed to this place I had only seen google pictures of. When we arrived our hearts were full of anticipation. We arrived two days early to give ourselves time to be acclimated to the time difference. Then after jet lag and meeting our guide (we are so thankful for this guide), we headed on a three hour taxi ride to our son's specialized adoption agency. Once we arrived we were welcomed by the magistrate and the other officials over the SAA. We sat eagerly in a room as we waited for our son to come. Those first few moments of meeting are almost a blur, so many emotions. Meeting the caregivers and people who had taken care of my son the first four years of his life was a welcomed unexpected blessing. They served us lunch and chai. It was a long process but one that impacted me greatly. It was a way to experience life from my son's perspective for just a moment. Those next two weeks in India were full of sight seeing, bonding and lots of memories. I would say our son first bonded with my husband the most. But as the time went on he slowly warmed up to both of us and this new idea of mommy and daddy. Traveling home from India was exhausting and liberating at the very same time. We were so excited to start this new chapter as a family of 5. My oldest daughter quickly became a little mother hen and my youngest welcomed her new best friend. I won't pretend like there weren't hard moments along the way, and still things we are navigating to this day. Bonding, lingering trauma and adjusting to this new way of life has had its moments but never without gratitude for it all. I could not imagine life without our son now. He has brought so much joy and adventure to our lives! I’ve come to learn every adoption story is unique with its own celebrations and challenges. So our journey might not look like yours or anyone else's, and that is more than okay. The thing I like to remember most is that each family's path is a one of a kind adventure. For the family considering India, I pray our story gives you peace and hope.

One of the most common misconceptions about adoption and early childhood trauma is this:“If they were really little, the...
05/28/2026

One of the most common misconceptions about adoption and early childhood trauma is this:

“If they were really little, they won’t remember it.”

But children don’t have to consciously remember loss for it to impact them.

Even babies are affected by separation from caregivers, institutional care, neglect, or early trauma. Their bodies and brains are still forming, and early experiences help shape how they experience safety, connection, and trust.

The hopeful news? Healing happens in relationships, too. Consistent care, attachment, connection, and support can make an incredible difference over time.

Understanding the impact of early experiences helps everyone to respond to children with compassion, empathy, and informed care.

https://gladney.org/i-want-to-adopt/international-adoption/

Across the world, families and communities are preparing to celebrate Eid al-Adha, one of the most important holidays in...
05/27/2026

Across the world, families and communities are preparing to celebrate Eid al-Adha, one of the most important holidays in Islam. 🌙✨

Centered on faith, generosity, compassion, and community, Eid al-Adha is observed with prayer, gathering with loved ones, sharing meals, and caring for those in need.

While often associated with Muslim-majority countries, Eid al-Adha is also celebrated in many of the countries connected to our adoption programs and families—including India, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Bulgaria, Colombia, Ecuador, and the Dominican Republic.

In some places, celebrations fill mosques and city streets. In others, smaller Muslim communities gather quietly with family and friends. Traditions may look different from country to country, but the heart behind the holiday remains beautifully the same: faith, gratitude, generosity, and togetherness.

As we learn about the cultures and traditions connected to children and families around the world, holidays like Eid al-Adha offer a meaningful reminder of the beauty found in both our differences and our shared humanity.

https://gladney.org/i-want-to-adopt/international-adoption/

05/26/2026

What if the country your heart keeps circling back to… is the Philippines?

Maybe it’s the joy-filled culture.
Maybe it’s the strong sense of family and connection.
Maybe it’s the incredible children waiting for someone to say, “You belong with us.”

Each week, we have been spotlighting a different adoption program—but this week, we’re heading to the Philippines to share what makes this program so meaningful to so many families.

From program details to the heart behind the journey, this video gives a glimpse into adoption from the Philippines—and the children who are waiting to be seen, known, and loved.

https://gladney.org/i-want-to-adopt/international-adoption/philippines/

Today is Buddha’s Birthday, a day honoring the birth of Siddhartha Gautama—the Buddha—whose teachings on compassion, min...
05/24/2026

Today is Buddha’s Birthday, a day honoring the birth of Siddhartha Gautama—the Buddha—whose teachings on compassion, mindfulness, and liberation continue to guide millions around the world.

Often observed as part of Vesak, this celebration also reflects on Buddha’s enlightenment and passing, making it one of the most important days in the Buddhist calendar.

Across Asia, communities mark the day in meaningful and diverse ways:

In Taiwan, temples come alive with flowers, chanting, and the ritual bathing of Buddha statues as a symbol of renewal and purification.

In Vietnam, families gather at pagodas to pray, offer incense, light lanterns, and practice acts of generosity.

In Thailand, people visit temples for offerings, teachings, and merit-making practices that emphasize kindness and mindfulness.

In Hong Kong, Buddhist temples host ceremonies, lantern displays, and community gatherings that blend tradition with urban life.

In India, known as Buddha Purnima, pilgrims travel to sacred sites like Bodh Gaya and Sarnath to meditate, reflect, and honor Buddha’s life and teachings.

In Philippines, Buddhist communities observe the day with temple visits, chanting, offerings, and quiet reflection, often rooted in Mahayana traditions.

While traditions vary across regions, the heart of the celebration remains the same everywhere: a shared commitment to compassion, awareness, and living with greater kindness toward all beings.

https://gladney.org/i-want-to-adopt/international-adoption/

Today, Ecuador celebrates the Battle of Pichincha, a pivotal moment in the country’s fight for independence. On May 24, ...
05/24/2026

Today, Ecuador celebrates the Battle of Pichincha, a pivotal moment in the country’s fight for independence. On May 24, 1822, patriot forces led by Antonio José de Sucre defeated Spanish royalist troops on the slopes of the Pichincha Volcano near Quito—helping pave the way for Ecuador’s independence.

Today, the holiday is commemorated with parades, ceremonies, and celebrations honoring Ecuador’s history, resilience, and national pride.

https://gladney.org/i-want-to-adopt/international-adoption/ecuador/

Inside Jessica’s Care Home in TaiwanWe already told you about Jessica, who is still waiting for her family, and about Na...
05/22/2026

Inside Jessica’s Care Home in Taiwan

We already told you about Jessica, who is still waiting for her family, and about Nancy bringing a stander to Taiwan for her. But we also wanted to share more about the incredible care home where Jessica lives.

With both excitement and a little trepidation, we set off on the hour-long drive to the home for individuals with special needs. We had always heard it referred to as a “nursing home,” so we really did not know what to expect.
What we did not expect was the huge, beautiful campus we pulled into, complete with multiple large buildings. After a few false starts—pulling up to the wrong building and being redirected—we finally found the person we were supposed to meet. She greeted us with such genuine warmth and excitement that we immediately felt at ease.

She led us, along with all of our bulky equipment, into a beautiful therapy room. In some places we have visited, it has been obvious that well-intentioned therapeutic equipment is not regularly used. This was absolutely not the case here. Everything looked well-used, and the physical and occupational therapists we met were incredibly knowledgeable. There was even an adult stander already in use when we walked in. When they saw the stander Nancy had brought for Jessica, they told us they had never had one so nice.

It was one of those heartwarming—and often funny—moments where communication was challenging, but connection still came easily. Everyone laughed together as we tried to communicate with our very limited shared language. As Nancy helped adjust the stander and get Jessica safely strapped in, the therapists were especially excited about the tray attachment and the toys Nancy had brought along. Their enthusiasm was contagious.

Jessica is the youngest and smallest resident there, and it was incredibly sweet to watch her face light up when she saw the occupational therapist who lifted her into position. It was obvious she knew him well and felt safe with him.

After Nancy demonstrated how to use the equipment, the staff kindly offered to show us more of the center. First, they proudly introduced us to posters featuring two of their athletes who are traveling to America in June to compete in bocce ball at the Special Olympics. We were so impressed. (Fun side note: members of our Superkids team volunteered as bocce ball judges at the 2022 Special Olympics!)

Next, we visited the pottery room, where every piece on display had been created by residents. Each artist had their own showcase area. We met the pottery teacher, who proudly explained that his students use whatever methods work best for them to create art. Some use their hands, some use their feet, and some use tools held in their mouths.

It was beautiful to see the artists so engaged in their craft. We met two of the artists whose work was displayed there. One artist even gave us a personal tour, and despite the language barrier, the pride and joy in the work came through so clearly.

The entire experience left us feeling deeply encouraged and hopeful for little Jessica. We are still searching for a family for her, but our hearts feel a little lighter knowing she is surrounded by compassionate, capable people who genuinely care for her.

And we know her day is coming. Jessica’s family simply has not seen her yet.

As we looked through photos of Jessica over the years, we were reminded once again that she is so much more than a diagnosis or a file. She is a little girl who has grown, changed, smiled, connected, and continued to persevere through every stage of her life.

If you would like more information about the Taiwan program, or about Jessica, please contact [email protected].

One of the biggest misconceptions about international adoption is that it’s somehow “easier” than domestic adoption. In ...
05/21/2026

One of the biggest misconceptions about international adoption is that it’s somehow “easier” than domestic adoption. In reality, international adoption is complex, highly regulated, and filled with multiple layers of approval designed to protect children and families.

Between immigration requirements, country-specific laws, Hague Convention safeguards, paperwork, travel, and changing timelines, the process requires significant patience, flexibility, and preparation—and that’s just the process itself. Families may also navigate language barriers, limited medical or biological family history, cultural differences, and the realities of parenting a child who has experienced loss and transition.

Every adoption path comes with its own challenges, responsibilities, and realities. Understanding those realities matters.

https://gladney.org/i-want-to-adopt/international-adoption/

A Promise FulfilledAs we continue sharing reflections from our Superkids team, today’s journal entry carries a particula...
05/20/2026

A Promise Fulfilled

As we continue sharing reflections from our Superkids team, today’s journal entry carries a particularly deep significance. For Nancy Dobson, this story is more than a moment from a trip… it’s a promise fulfilled to an unforgettable little girl named Jessica. Her story is one that will stay with you long after you finish reading. And one which we hope will finally lead us to Jessica’s forever family.

One of the most meaningful moments from our recent Superkids trip centered around a promise made years ago, and the incredible joy of seeing that promise fulfilled.

Our team was especially eager for the day we would visit Jessica’s care home. Jessica is a sweet and resilient little girl living with significant Cerebral Palsy that greatly impacts her mobility. Over several Superkids trips, Nancy Dobson, pediatric physical therapist and longtime Superkids team member, had the opportunity to spend time with Jessica and get to know her story firsthand.

During Nancy’s prior visit with Jessica, she made a promise: the next time the Superkids team returned, she would bring a specialized mobility and standing device designed specifically to help Jessica experience the world in new ways.

And Nancy fully intended to keep that promise.

What followed was no small task. The standing device was massive… not exactly something that fits neatly into a suitcase! Transporting specialized medical equipment internationally came with plenty of logistical challenges, extra coordination, and physical effort. But Nancy never lost sight of the reason behind it all: Jessica.

Every obstacle was worth the possibility of seeing Jessica safely supported in a stander built to meet her needs.

When the team finally arrived at Jessica’s care home and unveiled the device, the excitement in the room was immediate. While the staff had experience using other mobility equipment, they quickly recognized just how special this particular stander was, exclaiming how nice and thoughtfully designed it was for Jessica’s needs.

Nancy then spent time training the caregivers on how to properly use the equipment. Together, they carefully adjusted every component to fit Jessica’s specifications, ensuring she was comfortable, secure, and fully supported.

And then came the moment everyone had been waiting for: Jessica in her stander.

For many of us, standing is something we rarely think about. But for children with significant mobility challenges, opportunities to safely stand and experience different positions can have a tremendous impact — physically, emotionally, and developmentally. This stander will allow Jessica to spend time outside of her crib or wheelchair, helping support her body while also opening new opportunities for interaction, engagement, and exploration.

It was more than the delivery of a piece of equipment. It was the fulfillment of a promise. A reminder that advocacy often looks like persistence, creativity, sacrifice, and showing up again and again for a child who matters deeply.

Moments like these are at the heart of why Superkids exists.

While Jessica is receiving attentive and compassionate care in her current care home, she still needs something that even the best institutional care cannot fully provide — a forever family. Just imagine what continued growth, progress, and connection could look like for her if she had the consistent love, advocacy, and one-on-one attention of a family committed to her long-term development. We are urgently hoping to find a permanent family who can see her for the child she is and walk alongside her as she continues to grow, learn, and thrive.

If you'd like to learn more about Jessica, contact [email protected]

Address

6300 John Ryan Drive
Benbrook, TX
76132

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Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

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