1. Contact a Caseworker and Receive New Client Packet

Upon approval of your application and fee payment, you will be assigned an adoption specialist who will guide you through the adoption process. Your adoption specialist will provide a New Client Packet with step-by-step instructions for the initial stages of adoption planning which includes: scheduling a home study, receiving pre-adoptive training, preparing a US immigration application, and dossier preparation.

2. Complete Pre-Adoptive Training

Training and preparation are absolutely essential for a successful adoption, and at Gladney, we’re proud to offer some of the most comprehensive and meaningful training opportunities available. As part of your adoption process, you’ll complete both pre-adoptive training, child specific training, and participate in Gladney’s exclusive Pathways training | New Window held at our Fort Worth campus.

These trainings are a true benefit—an investment in your family’s long-term success. They deepen your understanding of the adoption journey and the unique needs of children, while equipping you with the skills and confidence to provide a safe, nurturing, and stable home. Our approach is trauma-informed and child-centered, ensuring you receive the very best preparation possible. We take great pride in empowering our prospective adoptive parents with the tools they need to thrive as they welcome a child into their lives.

3. Complete a Home Study

Start your home study as soon as possible, as it can take several months to complete. A current, valid home study is required to pursue a specific child. Your New Client Packet will contain essential information to share with your social worker during the home study visit. If you reside in Delaware, Illinois, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania, Gladney will conduct your home study; otherwise, you will need to find a non-profit, Hague, or COA-accredited agency.

4. Pursue a Waiting Child

Prior to being considered for a specific waiting child, the prospective adoptive parents must research the child’s medical needs and discuss with a qualified medical professional.

5. Gather Required Documents

Prepare to submit your agency application, current home study, and a Letter of Intent (two originals, signed and notarized). Your Letter of Intent should detail your knowledge and experience with the child’s medical condition, your commitment to providing necessary care, and your plans to support the child’s adjustment. You must also include a Waiting Child Referral Agreement and passport-style photos for each parent.

6. Prepare Your Dossier

Your adoption specialist and Gladney support staff will guide you through the dossier process. A dossier is a collection of essential documents for adoption. It could include an application letter, home study report, notarized references, certified birth and marriage certificates, medical reports, FBI fingerprints, USCIS approval, and various agreements and photos. These documents give adoption authorities a complete overview of your family.

7. Travel to Colombia

Adoptive parents must travel to Colombia to receive custody of their child and complete the adoption process. During the trip, the family will meet their child and begin the bonding period, followed by completion of required court hearings. The trip can last anywhere from 3-6 weeks, in some cases longer. Gladney and our Colombian partners will coordinate all travel appointments.