2024 Adoptee Leadership Exchange

From June 8-9, CCI was invited to join the very first Adoptee Leadership Exchange conference in NYC. They met with 16 other adoptee-led community organizations. This international summit gathered adoptee leaders from across the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia.

Participants included adoptees from China, South Korea, Ecuador, Colombia, and other regions in South America and Latin America.

Together, they discussed the significance and future of adoptee community groups and the challenges of growing and sustaining volunteer-run nonprofit organizations. They emphasized the crucial role these groups play in providing support, advocacy, and a sense of belonging for adoptees. The leaders highlighted the importance of creating safe spaces where adoptees can share their experiences and find solidarity.

They also addressed the difficulties faced by these organizations, such as securing consistent funding, recruiting and retaining dedicated volunteers, and raising awareness about the unique needs of adoptees within the broader community. Strategies for overcoming these obstacles included developing stronger networks, leveraging technology for outreach and support, and fostering partnerships with other nonprofits and stakeholders.

Through these discussions, the adoptee leaders aimed to develop sustainable models that ensure the longevity and impact of adoptee community groups, ultimately enhancing the well-being and representation of adoptees worldwide.