On November 9, celebrate World Adoption Day by drawing a smiley face on your hand.

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"Gotcha Day" is a term for the anniversary of the day on which a person or a pet joins a family by adoption. It is also called "Homecoming Day", "Family Day", or "Adoption Day", although the date may be different from date on which the legal adoption becomes final.

World Adoption Day is a day to raise awareness about adoption and celebrate the adoption community. It was founded in 2014 by Hank Fortener and his team at AdoptTogether.

How to celebrate World Adoption Day

• Share stories: Share your adoption story or the story of someone you know

• Support adoption organisations: Donate to or volunteer with adoption agencies and support groups

• Advocate for adoption: Support policies and legislation that make adoption more accessible

• Attend adoption events: Participate in adoption-related events, workshops, or webinars

• Consider adoption: If you've thought about adoption, explore the process

• Spread awareness: Share information about adoption on social media, blogs, or in your community

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