Why does one little adoption agency in America host a big homecoming for birthmothers?
Glad you asked… here’s why! A homecoming, according to Merriam-Webster, is “the return of a group of people usually on a special occasion to a place formerly frequented or regarded as home.” It’s a celebration that dates back to the return of the Prodigal Son in blblical times. It’s an event that has historically honored anyone from returning soldiers to school alumni. It reunites people of a common origin or experience.
Ten years ago, a little bitty Texas-licensed adoption agency with big dreams and a (then) weekly birthparent support group starting thinking about the need to keep mothers who place children for adoption supported and connected in the years following placement.
The birthmothers served by Abrazo come from all over Texas (and some move beyond) so getting a bunch of them in one city at one time took some planning. Most have busy lives, whether they’re working and/or parenting and/or going to school, so the decision was made to turn Abrazo’s Birthmothers Homecoming into a retreat held every other year. And this event is always free to attendees, thanks to the generosity of Angel Account donors. The hotel meeting space, a catered meal, renowned speakers, event sportswear and even swaq bags are all made possible through the kindness of the greater Abrazo community,
On September 7, 2024, Abrazo will host its fifth biennial homecoming for birthmothers, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome the sisterhood to the Stone Oak Drury Inn North in beautiful San Antonio.
Meet our Keynote Speaker: Kelsey Vander Vliet Ranyard
Flying in from California to headline Abrazo’s homecoming for birthmothers this year is Kelsey Vander Vliet Ranyard. 
She is the co-author of the new book Adoption Unfiltered, co-host of the birthmom podcast Twisted Sisterhood, and Director of Policy & Advocacy at Ethical Family Building, where she works on state and federal legislation for adoption reform.
Kelsey is herself a birthmother in an open adoption. Adoption has played a significant role in Kelsey’s life, as she is also the daughter and granddaughter of adoptees. Professionally, Kelsey has worked in both adoption agencies and law firms. This dynamo is truly a force for good. She advocates for ethical standards among adoption professionals, and child-centered adoptions, Kelsey is also co-producing an upcoming documentary called Love, Your Birth Mom,
She is a well-respected adoption expert who frequently travels to consult with lawmakers and Washington, D.C., and who helps the public better understand the birthparent experience and the importance of making adoption better for everyone. Kelsey resides in Southern California with her husband and young daughter, and we are delighted to welcome her to San Antonio and introduce her to the amazing first moms of Abrazo.
What to Expect At Abrazo’s Homecoming for Birthmothers
If you’ve placed a child for adoption here and have never been to our Birthmothers Homecoming before, prepare to feel like you belong. There’s some initial awkwardness anytime you go someplace new, of course. But dress casual and come ready to enjoy yourself. This is for birthmamas only, so there’s no kids underfoot, no guys, and no strangers. 
Everyone will be someone you know or need to know, because everyone who’s invited is someone who has gone through the ups and downs of being a birthmom (&/or has seen you through it.)
This is a day for and about birthmothers, but rest easy, because nobody is going to make you stand up and share your story. The theme of this year’s event is B.R.A.T., because Abrazo’s birthmothers are all that (Beautiful, Resilient and Thriving!) and this whole event should leave you feeling stronger than ever. Why? Because you have this whole sisterhood beside you. (Plus, a fond and grateful Abrazo community behind you.)
There’s listening, and learning. Lots of laughs, and maybe a few tears. This year, we’ve got someone special coming to snap “B.R.A.T.” pics (individual headshots for you and your child’s family), so if you want to get one done, then B.Y.O.M. (bring your own mascara, lol!) There’s dancing, when Hazel is there to lead the booty-bop, . There’s a different craft every year. There’s always plenty of food, and a bit of zin, if you’re old enough, And a mail call, and by the time we wrap things up with a little candlelight ceremony, you’ll actually be wishing the day lasted longer–because there’s just nothing like being with friends that really get it. (And we do.)
See You There?
It’s not too late, if you’re an Abrazo birthmom and you want to join us? (Yeah, we know, it’s past the reservation deadline, but say yes, and gurl, we’ll get you in.) Just contact our amazing HoCo coordinator, Lauranda, and promise her you’ll show, and we’ll have your tshirt and gifties waiting for you here. After all, it’s not every year that an adoption agency stops everything just to hold a special homecoming for birthmothers, so if you’re qualified to be here, you surely don’t want to miss it… come find out why, you B.R.A.T., you!
