Like all Gladney chapters, the Central Oklahoma Family Association educates the public about the merits of adoption, provides support during and after adoption, and helps raise funds to sustain Gladney programs. On a more personal note, it's a great way to support each other during the adoption process, and to help our children understand adoption and make friends with other adopted children. We hope you'll join us and share your expertise and enthusiasm.

The Central Oklahoma Association has evolved as The Gladney Center has grown and changed. In addition to parents who have participated in Gladney's domestic programs, the Association includes several couples and single parents who have adopted through the Center's international programs. Our board members also represent every facet of adoption, including a grown-up Gladney baby!

Our new offerings include a "buddy system" and a "Stork Watch." In the buddy system, two waiting families are paired with a mentor: someone who has been through the adoption process and can identify with the roller coaster of emotions experienced during the waiting period. Mentors keep in touch with and serve as a resource for the waiting family. The Stork Watch includes regular gatherings for waiting families participating in both the domestic and international programs. These parties are aimed at easing the stress of waiting. Whatever your skills and interests, there is a home for you at the Central Oklahoma Association. We welcome your involvement in any capacity and will do our best to match your interests with association needs.

For information about the Central Oklahoma Family Association, please contact us at gfa@gladney.org.