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I love my internship.

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I am a graduate student from the University of Texas at Arlington where I am currently perusing my Master’s degree in the field of Social Work. For my degree, I am required to complete a total of 400 hours in a placement of my school’s choosing.  Honestly, I was skeptical at first about the “potluck-style” placement of my internship but once I learned I had the opportunity to work at GladneyCenter for Adoption I was ecstatic. 

I felt an initial connection to this placement because adoption has had a huge part in my life. I was adopted by my parents when I was 6 days old from an agency in San Antonio and for as long as I can remember, I have heard from my family how beautiful and precious adoption is. I’ve heard it described as so many things; a miracle, a prayer answered, a blessing for adoptive parents (especially for those who may not be able to conceive children of their own) …and yet none of those words completely describe what it feels like to actually be one of those children who was so perfectly matched.

Even within the first week of working at Gladney I have learned that their reach extends so much further than just helping people like my mother and father become parents. Gladney also goes abroad to help children internationally from places all over the globe, they help finalize local/ private adoptions, and there is even a program called New Beginnings that helps children with disabilities find loving and caring families. Their NewBeginnings Program also works with Foster Care, older kids, and children with medical needs. Gladney is an incredible organization, I feel so lucky to be placed here.

I have so much love and respect for the process of adoption. It holds a very special place in my heart. I can’t believe how much good Gladney does for families like mine ...and I am so thrilled to be a part of it! J

- Jordan Adair, Family Services Intern
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