About World Adoption Day

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World Adoption Day, a global initiative founded by Hank Fortener, is observed annually to celebrate and raise awareness about adoption. The day, created in 2014, aims to highlight the importance of adoption and honor the stories of adoptive families and adopted individuals worldwide.

Hank Fortener, the founder of World Adoption Day, was inspired by his experiences with adoption. Growing up, his family fostered 36 children and adopted eight, profoundly influencing his perspective on the transformative power of adoption. Fortener's passion for the cause led him to launch AdoptTogether, the world's first crowdfunding platform for adoption costs, and World Adoption Day.

World Adoption Day was driven by the desire to create a universal celebration for adoption, recognizing its significance in the lives of millions of families. The observance includes gatherings, storytelling events, and social media campaigns sharing adoption stories and experiences.

A key symbol of World Adoption Day is the simple act of drawing a smiley face on one's hand and sharing the image on social media with the hashtag #WorldAdoptionDay. This symbol has become a unifying and recognizable gesture, representing joy, solidarity, and support within the adoption community.

The day also educates the public about the adoption process, addresses misconceptions about adoption, and highlights the need for supportive policies and practices that facilitate adoption. Advocacy efforts focus on improving the adoption experience, making it more accessible and less challenging for families and individuals who wish to adopt.

In addition to celebration and awareness-raising, World Adoption Day draws attention to the challenges and needs within the adoption community, including the support of children still waiting for families and the post-adoption resources necessary for adoptive families.

In summary, World Adoption Day, founded by Hank Fortener, is a significant observance that celebrates the joy and diversity of adoption and emphasizes the importance of supportive adoption practices and policies. It's a day that brings together individuals and families connected by adoption, highlighting their stories and advocating for the needs and well-being of the broader adoption community.