ABOUT US
Our Story
About Hand in Hand International Adoptions | Since 1974
Hand in Hand was founded in 1974 by MaryLee Lane. Hague-accredited and licensed in four states, our staff are adoptive parents who have lived this journey. Meet our team.
In 1974, MaryLee Lane was living in the Philippines when she witnessed something she could not ignore: children in orphanages with no families, no permanence, and no voice. She did not wait for someone else to act. She founded Hand in Hand International Adoptions.
Fifty-two years later, Hand in Hand has helped find permanent, loving homes for almost 10,000 children in 22 different countries. children from countries around the world. What began with one woman’s response to one need has grown into a Hague-accredited nonprofit with licensed offices in four states and active programs in five countries.
What has never changed: we exist for the children. Every decision we make — every country we add, every family we approve, every policy we follow — is made with the child’s best interest at the center.
Nearly every member of the Hand in Hand staff is an adoptive parent. That is not a marketing line — it is how we hire. We believe families deserve to be guided by people who have lived this process, who know what 3 a.m. fear feels like, and who can speak honestly about both the beauty and the difficulty of building a family through adoption.
Two of our staff members have been recognized with Congressional Angel in Adoption awards — among the highest honors in the adoption field.
MaryLee Lane — Founder
MaryLee Lane founded Hand in Hand International Adoptions in 1974 while living in the Philippines, where she recognized the urgent need for families to care for children living in orphanages. She has led the agency for over five decades and remains its founding vision.
She was presented with the Angels In Adoption Award by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute. She has a bachelor’s degree in education counseling. She is the mother of seven children with six being adopted from Philippines, Russia, and China.
The Values That Guide Us
Compassion
We lead with empathy and care in all that we do.
Integrity
We uphold the highest ethical standards.
Collaboration
We work together with families, partners, and communities.
Commitment
We are dedicated to children and families — before, during, and after placement.
OUR STORY
A Legacy of Love and Leadership
Founded in 1974, Hand in Hand International Adoptions began with a simple belief: every child deserves a family.
What started as a small nonprofit has grown into a globally respected adoption agency — guided by our values, shaped by decades of experience, and powered by a passionate team who never forgets the “why” behind our work.
Our Impact
50+
Years of Experience
10,000+
Children Placed
30+
Countries Partnered
8,000+
Families Served
Hand in Hand made our impossible dream possible. Their team became family to us through every step of our journey.
— THE MARTIN FAMILY
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
We're here to answer your questions and help you take the next step with confidence.