My first trip to Gladney’s Texas Campus will be difficult to beat. The New York Asia Program Team arrived in
Dallas/Fort Worth on Thursday afternoon. We loaded our bags in an SUV, piled in,
drove straight to Skittle at Six Flags Over Texas and jumped out! I hardly had
time to be nervous (or prepare for the Texas heat) as I began meeting Gladney
Families, staff, and board members. Roller coasters turned out to be great ice
breakers! Everyone seemed to be having a great time, running from one Texas
themed ride to another, winning Texas sized prizes, and resting to catch some
Texas themed entertainment.
Friday was a whirlwind of meeting more co-workers who I e-mail with
often, but have never met in person. As we toured Gladney’s main campus, our
guide made the scene come alive with Gladney’s rich history and her own
personal stories. Seeing the residence for birthmothers was a unique
opportunity and further showed how committed Gladney is to helping pregnant
women in need. The women who live there have a computer lab, gym and pool
onsite. They share “family meals” and have areas to study, read, and relax. I
was very impressed with the facility. My favorite part of the main campus was
the “adoption museum” in the visitor’s center. I could have spent hours staring
at the collection of photographs and reading stories, but we were a busy bunch!
We had lunch with Gladney Family Association (GFA) volunteers and
leaders where Gladney directors told us about the status of various Gladney
programs and services. Later, we rejoined GFA leaders at a happy hour. These
families are enthusiastic about Gladney and helping other adoptive families.
Meeting these loyal members was greatly encouraging.
Saturday was the big event, “The 125th Anniversary Coming Home Party” at the Gladney Center Campus. Children and families gathered to celebrate with Gladney staff and volunteers. There were dancers, face painting, jumpy castles, a petting zoo, crafts, photo booths, a train ride, and more! The day flew by as we helped kids make Chinese lanterns, met families, and soaked up the sun. We watched traditional Ethiopian dancers, a dragon presentation, line dancers, and ballerinas. After such an exciting day, we had no time to be tired as that evening was the Gala!
Dressed to the nines, we joined Gladney families, donors, and honorees
at the 125th Anniversary Gala held at the Omni Hotel. The event was spectacular!
While the entire weekend was amazing, the Gala really drove home how
outstanding Gladney is. You could feel the passion for Gladney and for
adoption. It was remarkable to be surrounded by such inspiring families and
individuals. I am honored to work for Gladney and be part of this wonderful
organization. Gladney really is a place “Where Hope is Born”!!
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