Next Steps helps birth mothers transition back into the "real world" after delivery. We arm you with knowledge, education, practical tools, and confidence to take on the world with a renewed and healthy perspective by focusing on the whole person - mind, body and spirit. It is Gladney's goal for birth mothers to leave us well equipped to take on new opportunities. Beth Cox, Caseworker for Next Steps says, "Next Steps teaches girls how to dream, and even more importantly, how to achieve their dreams. It is about teaching women how to empower themselves."

While working with Gladney, birth mothers learn about nutrition, cooking, life skills, developing critical thinking skills, team work, trust and the importance of self respect. Next Steps is about continuing the progress birth mothers make during their time at Gladney. "We will continue to help support our clients' efforts and help them tap into community resources such as career development, mentoring programs, skills assessment and education," says Frank Garrott, President of the Gladney Center for Adoption.

Check out what birth mom, Michelle, has to say about the Next Steps program. By allowing Gladney to help you through the adoption process, you become a member of our extended family. Through Gladney, lifelong services are available to birth parents, adoptive parents and adopted children.

For Gladney birth parents, we offer the following specialized services:

• Updates on your child's development.
• Access to a monthly birth parent support group at the Fort Worth campus.
• Access to caring, confidential counseling services.
• Permanent maintenance of adoption records.
• A mutual-consent, voluntary registry (after age 18).

In 1984, the state of Texas approved the institution of a Voluntary Registry. That same year, the Gladney Center for Adoption established its own Voluntary Registry. The Registry provides the means for birth parents and adopted children (18 or older) to meet when there is mutual consent. Gladney also maintains a sibling registry. This registry provides a means for full or half siblings to meet when they are 18 or older and there is mutual consent. Gladney's Post Adoption specialists are here for you. You can reach us at postad@gladney.org or at 800-GLADNEY (800.452.3639).