Spence-Chapin was honored to host our international partners from South Africa and Colombia in early June, here in New York City! In addition to seeing the sites and attending our Gala, our guests contributed valuable insights and details during our daily workshops in our new conference room. With topics ranging from examining the integrity of adoption referrals to waiting child advocacy to supporting adoptive families during their time in-country for their adoption process, these sessions were critical as we look to the future of our continued successful partnership.
Our workshops were also a wonderful opportunity for cross-cultural exchange. Grannies from Colombia and South Africa shared their unique experiences of working with children in institutional care and their passion for their work permeated the room and touched us all. This collaborative learning was also timely, as we plan for the expansion of the Granny program to two additional children’s homes in Colombia and two in South Africa in the coming year.
Underpinning international adoption is the ongoing diplomacy between countries. Sharing a meal with our international partners, laughing, talking, and even challenging one another’s perspectives allows space for stronger collaboration and meaningful growth for all involved. We’re excited for what is to come as these two programs continue to expand, providing additional aid and support through both the Granny program and the THRIVE program, to all children living in institutional care, as well as finding permanent loving families for those children in need of adoption.
To learn more about our International Adoption programs in South Africa and Colombia, please visit our website: https://spence-chapin.org/international-adoption/
