Organizations across the U.S. are finding that offering adoption- or foster-friendly benefits can make a big difference not just to the lives of their employees and their employees’ families but also to prospective hires. At a time when companies are looking to set themselves apart, offering adoption benefits demonstrates support for families of every type. It’s proving to be a real draw for attracting talent. And, as Dave Thomas said when he started the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption over 30 years ago, “it’s just the right thing to do.”

More and more companies are also promoting their adoption- and foster-friendly policies and gaining recognition among their peers through certification from the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption.

To apply for certification, organizations must first fill out a survey. If they meet certain criteria that include offering at least six weeks of paid leave along with at least $5,000 in financial reimbursement for adoption costs, they’ll be recognized as a Certified Adoption-Friendly Workplace. To become a Certified Foster-Friendly Workplace, the organization must offer at least two weeks of paid leave to foster parents.

However, companies wishing to apply should note that the survey must be filled out by April 6, 2026.

Why are so many companies going through the certification process? Because, once certified, organizations will be able to display badges on print and digital materials. They’ll also be elevated through guest blogs on the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption website and can participate in media events. In addition, they may qualify for the Foundation’s 100 Best Adoption-Friendly Workplaces list.

And just by filling out the survey, all participating organizations will have the opportunity to opt in to a database of benefits offered by other organizations across the United States, allowing them to see how their benefits compare to those offered by similar companies.

Organizations that complete the survey can also download the Foundation’s Adoption-Friendly Workplace toolkit which can help them stay on top of having best-in-class benefits. The toolkit is also handy for groups looking to create a policy for the first time.

There aren’t many ways an organization can make a direct and lasting impact on the lives of their employees and their families. But, by offering adoption and foster-care benefits, companies are making a real difference both to children in need of a home and society in general. And they’re setting themselves apart in a way that’s attracting the nation’s top talent.