Connecticut Heart Gallery

Meet the children!

There are hundreds of children in Connecticut right now who hope a special family will welcome them with open hearts and arms. These great kids need parents they can rely on and maybe siblings they can join!

Some have experienced trauma. Others have significant medical needs. Some just need parents. All of them are special and deserve a loving family. Maybe one of them will join yours.

We use aliases for children when they’re still going through legal procedures. These aliases are in quotation marks. Call us today to learn more about adoption or email the contact to learn more about a child.

Call 1-888-KID-HERO (1-888-543-4376)

Amanda

Sweet Amanda is a beautiful teenager, born in 2007, who needs a patient and accepting family who is willing to learn about her needs. Within her abilities, Amanda participates in family life and her daily, school schedule with ease. She enjoys playing outside, taking a walk in the park, and keeping her hands busy with fidget and sensory toys. When inside, she loves to watch "Veggie-Tales," playing on her tablet, bouncing her yo-yo, and listening to music! Amanda has been doing quite well in school. Amanda's school and family work hand in hand, to help her improve her daily living skills, and other needs. Amanda is somewhat independent at home, undertaking routine self-care. Her foster mother is proud of her and describes her as "a really good kid!" They enjoy shopping or attending church, on occasion. Due to her unique needs, Amanda's family will receive training and support while learning how to best meet her needs. Her laughter and bright smile will show you the contentment she feels when she knows she is safe and loved. This happy, little lady is eager to join a family where she can be loved for her lifetime!

Email Sandra Carroll to learn more about Amanda

Aiyanna

Aiyanna is a lovely teen, who was born in 2010, and she radiates a vibrant energy that lights up any room she enters. Her warm smile and open heart make her instantly approachable, drawing people in with an ease that feels natural and genuine. With a friendly and adventurous spirit, Aiyanna sees the world as a place full of possibilities. What makes Aiyanna's spirit more remarkable is the adversity she has faced. Yet, she has chosen to try to rise above those challenges, and she carries a strength that fuels her ability to connect with others. Aiyanna enjoys singing, dancing, art projects, eating, cooking, and shopping. Aiyanna approaches learning with determination and an eagerness to do well in school. She shows remarkable courage, opening her heart to new experiences and people, and she longs to have a family to call her own, and a home where she can build lasting friendships.

Email Nadine McDonald to learn more about Aiyanna

Jay’Vion

Jay'Vion is a handsome, young man who was born in 2013. Jay'Vion has a smile that can light up any room, and he is always very interested in introducing his toys to new people. He enjoys Lego toys, and he likes to play on electronics (i.e. Nintendo switch). Due to Jay'Vion's trauma history in his early childhood years, his family will likely need ongoing support to ensure he continues to heal from his past experiences. Jay'Vion responds very well to clear expectations and instructions. In school, Jay'Vion benefits from extra support for his educational goals, especially reading. He, also, yearns to maintain positive, peer connections. Jay'Vion is looking for a forever family who will love and accept him, unconditionally, and who is patient and understanding. Jay'Vion loves affection and gives great hugs. He, also, likes animals and he would love to have a dog, one day. If your family would like to help Jay'Vion reach his full potential, you might be the right one for him.

Email Mary Olmeda to learn more about Jay’Vion

Eddy

Finding a family who shares a similar culture, and interests are among the wish list items for teenage, Eddy. Eddy has some distinct preferences, including loving spicy foods. Eddy's favorite food is spaghetti and meatballs & he likes being in the kitchen either cooking or baking and overall being helpful with household chores. This resilient adolescent would love to be with a family. In the past, he has helped care for animals on a farm, so he has a strong affinity for larger animals, including cows and horses; and he has had a special love for larger dogs, which have been especially useful to him as a support. Eddy enjoys playing cards and video games, fishing, and playing or watching basketball. His favorite NBA team is the Boston Celtics, and he also enjoys watching the New England Patriots play football. Academically, Eddy is a high school student who receives supports and his progress has been amazing. Eddy can describe his ideal family as one with at least one mom and a pet, if possible! He would thrive in a family where he is the youngest child in the home, benefitting from the leadership and modeling of older siblings. He is very energetic and would do best with two-parents who will be patient with him, as well as the length of transition time it may take for him to feel secure within their relationship. Eddy is an empathic and kind, young man who hopes to become a police officer when he gets older. He wants more than anything to belong to a family who will take the time to build a trusting, stable, and successful relationship with him.

Email Holly Fortier to learn more about Eddy

Jonah

A very special family in Connecticut is being sought for Jonah, who is a very sweet, school aged boy. Jonah was born in 2012. He is a resilient boy who is ready to join a family capable of meeting his needs. This adorable, young guy has dark hair and a smile that lights up the room. Jonah is non-verbal and he responds best when he uses his sense of hearing and is told what will be happening. He enjoys toys that make music and vibrate, and he needs a family who will soothe and comfort him. Jonah uses adaptive equipment, and he requires assistance for all activities of daily life (bathing, dressing, and nutrition). He will need ongoing care which will continue into adulthood. A family who can meet his needs, now, and in the future will benefit from the assistance of nursing supports, as well as training to learn about his specific needs. Jonah is in middle school where he receives services for additional support. His teachers report he is making good progress towards all his goals, and he enjoys social interaction with his peers. Listening to music and toys that make noise and vibrate bring joy to Jonah's day! Jonah has family in Connecticut whom he loves visiting and these relationships are important to maintain. Jonah will require comprehensive care from loving adults, but what he really needs is a family that will love him and be by his side, forever. View Doors to Hope and Healing featuring Jonah.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Jonah

Isabella

Sweet and giggly Isabella deserves to be part of a family where she is loved and cherished. Isabella was born in 2012, and she is school aged. Isabella, or Bella as she likes to be called, has some needs which will stay with her for life. However, this inquisitive and determined little girl always takes pleasure in displaying her abilities. Having a very loving and social disposition, Bella blows kisses, claps, and laughs when she expresses affection and is excited. She loves to be hugged and she will hug you back and snuggle while you chat about your day. Bella is working hard and increasing her language skills, however, she can also communicate through her iPad and let her needs be known. Isabella uses adaptive equipment to assist with her mobility. Working on her independence, Bella can feed herself, drink from a sippy cup and propel herself to get where she needs to go. Her positive energy can be felt by her teachers and her friends. Given Bella's needs, she will be followed closely by professionals, both in and out of the home environment, to ensure she maintains her optimum health. She longs to give hugs, smile, and love to a family who can keep her smiling and meet her needs, now, and in the future. View Doors to Hope and Healing featuring Isabella.

Email Holly Nesdale to learn more about Isabella

Teagan

This very special boy, born in 2009, needs a family who will love him, unconditionally, while attending to his special needs. A family willing to learn about and meet his needs will be rewarded by Teagan’s sweet smile and happy disposition. With the right family, he can thrive and blossom. Teagan is energetic, and he likes to be active, so holding his hands and keeping him close allows him to engage with the world around him in a safe manner. Even though he is non-verbal, Teagan can communicate with sign language, and he can make his needs known by using some sound vocalizations. Teagan understands information that is spoken to him, and he enjoys watching TV, smiling, and moving to the sound of music. He responds well to attention, supervision, consistency, and nurturance. Teagan enjoys the interactions with his teachers and friends, and he does well with additional, school supports. Therapeutic connections will remain in place to help Teagan and his family with a successful transition. If you're willing to embark on this opportunity to parent Teagan, the rewards of seeing Teagan progress and thrive into the special young man he will become, are many.

Email Nadine McDonald to learn more about Teagan

Mahki

Mahki is a teenage boy, born in 2008, who is yearning to join a family in Connecticut with whom he can share his experience as an adolescent. Mahki is a friendly, young man who is respectful and enjoys engaging with others. Due to exposure to significant, traumatic events in his past, and the loss of many adults, a family will need to be patient and supportive while Mahki continues to heal from past experiences and works on forming meaningful, supportive relationships that help rebuild trust. Mahki is a resilient youth who enjoys the typical adventures of any teenager. He enjoys caring for Hermit crabs and other similar creatures. He is creative, and he uses his analytical and creative abilities to plan and build things. Additionally, he enjoys riding his scooter, playing video games, and reading. Mahki is a smart, handsome, and deserving, young man who needs a family in his life to help him grow, be successful, and discover his potential and resilience. He eagerly awaits the opportunity to build a relationship with a family and he wants more than anything to belong to a home and a family who is willing to help him reach his dream.

Email Sandra Carroll to learn more about Mahki

David

David is a teenage boy, born in 2010, who has faced many challenges in his young life. Despite navigating a history of complex trauma, he demonstrates courage and determination. David has developed exceptional, auditory, and tactile skills, and his passion for learning and his curiosity about the world remains undeterred. David is actively working on building trust with supportive adults in his life. With continued support and understanding, he has a bright future ahead, one where his strengths and talents can shine brightly, inspiring others along the way. Throughout his early years, David experienced a series of adversities. Despite those hurdles, David has shown remarkable resilience. David is actively working with a team of professionals who understand that healing takes time and requires a compassionate, patient approach. Could you be that one person who can provide a loving, patient home for David? David longs to be part of a family who can allow him to feel safe, and loved, while being diligently supervised and guided.

Contact Nadine McDonald to learn more about David

“Yolanda”*

"Yolanda," born in 2016, is a school age girl with a sweet and bubbly personality. Yolanda is not her real name but her need for a family to call her own is very real. Yolanda loves to wear her hair in corn braids. She has a good sense of humor and is lovable to those closest to her. She likes the color, purple; Crocs; playing with Legos; and shopping. Yolanda has received ongoing support due to her past trauma and the need for stability. She has been able to demonstrate amazing insight and self-reflection for such a young child. Her adoptive family will likely need continued support that will allow Yolanda to grow and thrive, as she continues to heal from past experiences. Yolanda has excelled in school with the extra support she receives, and she is noted to be a model student in the classroom. Yolanda is looking for a special family who can be patient, structured and provide consistency for her. Yolanda has a younger sister and grandmother with whom she enjoys having contact and would want to continue these relationships moving forward.

Email Holly Nesdale to learn more about Yolanda

Sa’Niyah

Meet Sa'Niyah! This adorable young lady, born in 2014, is yearning to join a family who will love her and commit to her as she continues to grow and navigate the world around her. Despite the trauma she has faced in her short life, she is always working hard to strengthen her emotional balance. Sa'Niyah is a very resilient child, and she thrives when she can take a helping role with adults! She eagerly awaits the opportunity to build a relationship with a family with whom she can develop a sense of security and belonging. Sa'Niyah likes reading, playing games and she loves pretty journals and pencils. She also loves dancing, especially ballet and gymnastics, as well as arts and crafts and animals. She utilizes reading and writing in her journal to relax her mind, she loves stress toys including poppets, and squishy toys are her favorite! Sa'Niyah would do best with a family who will be patient, committed and provide consistency and support, while she continues to work with in home supports to overcome her past and build her capacity to trust and rely on an adult caregiver. Sa'Niyah is looking for a family where she can have the space and attention she needs to grow up and be provided all the feelings that come with belonging to a family.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Sa’Niyah

Nova

A very special and loving family is being sought for Nova. Nova is a sweet, little girl who was born in 2022. She needs a family who will love her and can meet all her needs. Nova has dark hair, and she is often wearing a bow to match every outfit. Nova is non-verbal, but she responds with a smile and makes sounds when spoken to. Her smile is contagious and lights up a room. Nova loves dogs and has been observed following the current pet in her foster home with her eyes. Nova likes listening to music and being exposed to visually stimulating toys. She loves dolls and has been observed giving her doll kisses. She, also, enjoys the outdoors with the assistance of adaptive equipment. Given Nova's needs, she is dependent on her caretakers to complete daily routines, such as: bathing, dressing, and nutrition. Nova currently receives services in her home that provide her family with support and she will continue to need assistance into adulthood. This little girl is in need and is deserving of a forever home that will love and care for her, unconditionally.

Email Bryan Lerch to learn more about Nova

Carlos

My name is Carlos. I am a teenager, born in 2009, who loves playing board games and being outside playing basketball. I even make my own board games! At school, I enjoy all my classes and just joined the drama club, which is very fun. I love playing video games like Minecraft and Roblox, and I try my best to be helpful to everyone around me. I do well with routine, prompts and reminders, but I really like learning to be more independent. Those who work with me say: Carlos is an energetic and silly kid who thrives in structured environments and loves helping others! He is very insightful and always strives to do his best. What I'm looking for in a family: I'm excited to have a family to call my own! I can't wait to learn how to cook with a new family and do fun activities with them. I would love to be with a family who is kind, understanding and will help me feel like I belong somewhere. If your family would like to help Carlos reach his full potential and help him become the best version of himself, please see the contact information, below.

Email Bryan Lerch to learn more about Carlos

Anthony

Anthony is a resilient, young man who was born in 2010. His charm, sense of humor, and insight are remarkable traits for someone so young, and he is considered a "breath of fresh air" by those who know him well. His caring and considerate nature motivates him to learn new things, explore, and help others in any way he can. Anthony will jump at any opportunity to participate in an activity with an adult or friend and help around the house. As a typical adolescent, if there is any prospect for earning money, there is no task or job too big for him! Educationally, Anthony is motivated to excel; he does best with validation, support, and oversight to ensure his work is being completed. Because of his past experiences, Anthony needs a family willing and committed to work through the difficult moments with him. Anthony enjoys playing outdoors and playing video games. He currently participates in a Police Explorer's Program, and he aspires to become a police officer so he "could help kids just like him." When thinking about a family in which he'd like to grow up, Anthony stated he would love to have a mom and a dad in a home with pets (or willing to get them). He would love for a family with whom he could go hiking and biking or would support him in those activities, as well as a dad who is interested in playing video games with him. Anthony remains positive, hopeful, and excited to find a family where he can grow up, nurtured, and loved, for his lifetime.

Email Adam Liebowitz to learn more about Anthony

Jadielys

Jadi is outgoing, crafty, funny, optimistic, and an insightful, young girl born in 2014. Participating in group activities and playing sports with her peers is something she always looks forward to. Her creativity might make her a great actress one day! Jadi loves dolls and Legos and playing with them. She has a creative imagination, and it shines through in her artwork. In January 2024, Jadi received an award for being a model peer student. Staff at Jadi's school have shared that Jadi is an enthusiastic child with a lot of potential. Jadi works closely with supports to make sure all her needs are met. She is very well versed on her needs, and she can take them in stride. Due to circumstances beyond her control, Jadi was exposed to a lot of turmoil in her young life. A family who loves the change of seasons and all the holidays (especially Halloween!) that she could share or take part in, would be a wonderful match for Jadi. While Jadi cannot live with her older brother, she is very connected to him and looks forward to spending some time with him and his adoptive family. There is so much for Jadi, and her future family, to look forward to as she grows and matures. With supports and positive role models to guide her, Jadi's potential is endless.

Email Denise Lopez to learn more about Jadi

“Adam”*

Due to confidentiality, "Adam" is not this young man's true name; however, what stands true is how special he is and his hope to find a family who will provide him with a fresh start in his young life. Adam was born in 2010, and he has a funny and sociable personality. He, also, has a kind and caring heart and is extremely loyal and forgiving. Adam would benefit from a positive adult who will demonstrate effort and patience, and who will recognize and remind him of his many strengths. In school, Adam receives support, and he has developed an interest in art which has grown into a great talent. Adam never bores of building with Legos, drawing, playing video games, and watching television. He enjoys anything to do with nature, including bugs, rocks, plants, and animals, especially dogs, and he has played on recreational football and wrestling teams; he enjoys being active. A positive, parental role model would be ideal to help provide guidance as Adam embarks on a journey toward becoming a successful adolescent. If you feel that your family would like to help Adam reach his full potential, please see the contact information, below.

Email Nadine McDonald to ask about 'Adam'

“Brian”*

"Brian" is not the true name for this very special teen, who was born in 2009, but what is true is Brian's desire to grow up in a family where he will receive unconditional love and support. Everyone who works with Brian agrees that he has a phenomenal sense of humor and makes his classmates and teachers laugh each day! Brian has a smile that will warm your heart, and he is ready to join a family who is willing to learn about his needs. With supports, consistency and structure, Brian has made great strides in developing positive, social interactions and identifying his feelings. As a high school student, Brian receives support to help him complete his work. He enjoys attending school and his teachers are proud of the efforts he puts in each day. Watching movies and cartoons are favorite activities which Brian would love to share with a family. His favorite cartoons are Garfield, Cars and Goofy! Brian enjoys coloring, and crafted his own cat made of construction paper, naming the cat "fur ball." His joy shines whenever a holiday comes around. There are extended family members who maintain contact with Brian and give him a sense of familial connectivity; they will be a support to any family he joins. Attentive, patient and encouraging parents who are willing to work with in-home, supportive services will be thrilled to watch Brian as he continues to grow and learn, every day.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about 'Brian'

“Drew”*

We’re looking for a special family in the Norwich/New London area for Drew. He has a special relationship with relatives who love him and will remain part of his life. Drew was born in 2008. He’s a big teddy bear. He’s kind and thoughtful and would love to listen to music, watch videos, and enjoy meals with you. He will write things down when you have difficulty understanding him. He has a special environment at school to help him meet his education goals. You can help provide the consistency he needs for success. Drew may do best in a family where he’s the youngest child. He will thrive in a family where he feels connected and secure and knows he’s a permanent member.

Email Denise Lopez to learn more about Drew

“Johnny”*

We'd like to introduce you to "Johnny!" Due to confidentiality, "Johnny" isn't this young man's real name, but a special home is being sought for this handsome guy, born in 2006. Johnny has some needs for which he receives numerous, supportive services. An ideal family for Johnny will have parents who can accommodate his in-home providers who will continue to support him and his family. Johnny thoroughly enjoys watching TV, playing with any toy balls that he can kick around, and playing with sensory toys. Although he is non-verbal, he can make noises to make his needs known. Some of his favorite foods are rice, beans, chicken, nuggets, fries, chips, and applesauce squeezable pouches. Johnny has a sweet and inquisitive disposition; he is eager to explore things around him and he can be content playing with building or stacking blocks. Johnny is doing well in school; he is a high functioning, young man who receives additional supports to help him be successful. An organized and patient family with a willingness to learn more about Johnny’s needs, as well as developing meaningful relationships and building trust are key elements of Johnny’s current goals. Johnny needs a family by his side, who can meet his significant needs, now and in the future.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about 'Johnny'

“Bobby”*

A special family in Connecticut is being sought for an adorable, elementary school aged boy, born in 2016. "Bobby" is not his real name due to confidentiality, however, he is a resilient, young boy who is ready to join a family who is able to meet his needs. This adorable boy has dark hair and a smile that will melt your heart. Bobby loves watching television, including Paw Patrol and other Disney cartoons. Soft things, such as blankets or socks, bring comfort to Bobby, and he also loves being read to and choosing the books himself! Bobby is non-verbal, and he will need ongoing care which will continue into adulthood. A family who can meet his needs, now, and in the future will benefit from the assistance of nursing supports, as well as training to learn about his specific needs. Bobby loves school where he receives additional services. He really enjoys going on field trips with his peers! He also loves playing in the ball pit and has fun scooting around independently and playing with toys! Bobby will require comprehensive care from loving adults, and although he will be dependent on others for the rest of his life; what he really needs is a family who will love him and be by his side, forever.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about 'Bobby'

"Zander"

A very special family in Connecticut is being sought for Zander, an adorable boy who was born in the Summer of 2024. Zander is not his real name due to confidentiality, but he is a unique and special child in need of a family who is willing to soothe him, comfort him, and be educated to care for his needs. This sweet boy will continue to receive services by a host of providers, and he will be followed and closely monitored by professionals to ensure he maintains his optimum health and nutrition. Of equal importance, Zander truly needs to be with a family where he is read to, cuddled, and allowed to blossom to the best of his abilities! There are many unknowns for Zander's future, however, it is known he will be better off in the loving arms of a family. Caring for him will bring joys to a family's life and this deserving little guy will benefit greatly from being in an atmosphere where he can grow, learn, and be loved!

Email Denise Lopez to learn more about "Zander"

Devin

A truly special family is being sought for a teenager named Devin, born in 2008. Devin is fondly referred to as a "big teddy bear," as he has a sweet, innocent disposition and he desires to feel loved and secure within a family. Some things Devin would love to do with his family include listening to music, watching YouTube videos and sharing meals. He loves all types of food! Devin can keep himself occupied for long periods of time and although it may be difficult at times to understand him, verbally, he is patient and will communicate his needs by writing things down. Devin is adored by his teachers and school staff. Solid communication between Devin's school and home provides the structure and consistency he needs for ultimate success. Devin has a special relationship with some relatives who love him very much and would like to remain a part of his life. Devin's most immediate need, right now, is stability with a patient family! He may do best in a family where he is the youngest child, and he will thrive within a family where he feels connected and secure and understands he does not need to move to any other home.

Email Denise Lopez to learn more about Devin

"Sally"

A special foster family is needed for Sally, a little girl born in 2015. Due to confidentiality reasons, Sally is not this child's true name. Sally is a sweet girl, who wears adorable, purple glasses that she picked out, herself! Sally is outgoing and friendly; those who know her note that she makes friends easily and she loves playing with kittens. She also loves trying new foods! Sally will thrive in a family who can provide her with a structured and predictable setting, while also exuding love and commitment to her. Sally participates in services which will be important to continue, and the ongoing support will prove to be a key to the success of Sally joining a family. Sally utilizes supports in school to help her reach her goals. Her teachers stated that she has been an advocate for herself, and she has recently begun violin lessons which she is enjoying. Sally has relationships with extended family members, which help with her feelings of connectedness; therefore, a family who resides in CT is currently being sought. Sally has the resiliency to thrive, and she would love to grow up in a family who loves to snuggle and hug as much as she does.

Email Sandra Carroll to learn more about "Sally"

Kaiden

This very special boy, Kaiden, was born in 2017 and he needs a family who will love him unconditionally. A family willing to learn about Kaiden's needs will be rewarded with lots of hugs, kisses and "I love you's!" This happy and energetic, little boy has many endearing qualities; to know him is to love him! Kaiden has several specialized needs, but he doesn’t let any of them stop him. As a baby, his doctors said that he would most likely never walk or talk, and he proves them wrong every day. He is walking on his own, and his vocabulary is expanding, daily. Kaiden is a bright and loving, little boy, and he brings a smile to the face of everyone he meets. Kaiden is in elementary school where he receives services for additional support. His teachers and the school nurse report that he is making exceptional progress towards all his goals, and he is a classroom favorite with both adults and his peers; Kaiden always has a classmate wanting to volunteer to walk with him down the hallway or play with him at recess. Kaiden is followed closely by several providers to ensure he maintains optimum health. Although incredibly loved and supported by his foster family, they are not able to adopt him, but they would like to remain involved in his life. If you can picture Kaiden as part of your family, please see the contact information listed below.

Email Bryan Lerch to learn more about Kaiden

Mariselly

This beautiful teen would like to grow up and work with children in the future, can you help her reach her goals? Mariselly was born in 2009, and she is described to be sweet, polite, and caring. Mariselly is young at heart, and she loves to spend her time doing arts and crafts. Mariselly has faced many challenges in her young life and her resiliency is evident in her desire to belong to a family. Being connected to supports will help both Mariselly and her family be successful. Mariselly has been able to take pride in her grades and she receives additional supports in school. Her teachers have noted that she is kind, respectful to both staff and peers, and she is flexible, understanding, and polite. Her teachers also mentioned that she is a role model in her baking class, and she enjoys not only baking, but willingly doing the tasks most others don't want to do! This young lady is hopeful there is a family out there willing to open their hearts and their home to her, and to get to know what an awesome and wonderful family member she can become. Please inquire if you are interested in learning more about Mariselly!

Email Sandra Carroll to learn more about Mariselly

Evelyse

This very active, charming, and engaging girl is hoping to find a family with whom she can share her love of music, movies, reading and animals. Keeping busy with creative activities makes Evelyse happy. Her chatty nature, along with a vivid personality, makes her fun to be around. Evelyse was born in 2013, and she is currently in middle school. With supports in place, she has the capacity to do well. Around the home, Evelyse likes to be a helper. She enjoys being outside, helping with yard work; especially planting flowers. She loves any type of family activity, such as going to the library or out to eat. Evelyse continues to work on healing from past experiences, and she does best when she has the sole focus of adults, and she could benefit from the positive role modeling of an older child. Evelyse thrives with positive relationships and the trust that she's able to build with her caretaker. If you feel that your family would like to help Evelyse grow and thrive, please reach out for more information about this wonderful girl!

Email Denise Lopez to learn more about Evelyse

Cole

A very special family is being sought for Cole, born in 2006. Cole is a resilient youth who needs a family capable of meeting his needs. This handsome, young man has dark hair and a smile which envelops his whole face. Despite being non-verbal, Cole communicates excitement with his bright eyes, facial expressions, and body motions. Cole completed the 12th grade where he receives special services, and he is participating in a 5th year. His teacher reports he is making good progress with all his goals, and he enjoys social interaction with his friends. Listening to music and toys that make noise bring joy to Cole's daily life. He loves doing arts and crafts; painting is his favorite activity! Cole, also, enjoys going on outings and into the community to participate in activities. Given his specialized needs, Cole is reliant on adaptive equipment, and he will be closely followed by many professionals, both in and out of the home, to ensure he maintains his optimum health. Although Cole will be dependent on others for the rest of his life, what he really needs is a family he can depend on. Cole has demonstrated the ability to form positive relationships, and he needs a forever family to further develop long-term connections.

Email Sandra Carroll to learn more about Cole

Danny

Danny was born in 2011. Danny enjoys playing video games, watching YouTube videos, listening to music, playing with his peers, and he loves playing basketball. Danny has a great sense of humor and a great smile. Danny is actively involved in church, and he enjoys being part of the youth-group. Danny easily engages with others, including meeting new people and making friends. He receives extra help at school to support his needs which allows him to maintain good grades. Danny, also, receives extra support outside the home, and he can respond well and process situations while taking some accountability. As Danny needs to heal from his past traumas and disappointments, he thrives on structure and follow through by the adults in his life. He likes to feel heard when he has a thought or idea, and he longs to be part of a forever family who will continue to support and encourage him. Danny will do well with a family who is willing to be patient and allow him time to build a trusting relationship. Danny would also enjoy a family who can support him in extracurricular activities/sports, and he would enjoy a home with children his approximate age with shared interests. Danny would benefit from having someone he could look to as a "father figure," as well as a family who was open to maintaining some contact with his siblings, who have been adopted.

Email Bryan Lerch to learn more about Danny

"Nathan"

Nathan is a healthy, personable, young man who was born in 2008. Nathan is best described as a kind, empathetic teen who is always a good friend. He is often seen sticking up for his friends and cracking jokes around the halls at his school! Nathan, also, is a star of the daily morning news, giving the school an update on the day as well as a funny joke. He has his entire class and, at times, all the viewers of the news laughing. He is well liked by all staff and peers, and he is a straight "A" student and excels with expectations. Nathan has been through significant trauma in the past, but he has used supports to work through his tough start at life. He is reflective and can discuss how he has grown as a young man. Nathan longs to be part of a family and he is looking forward to experiencing his high school years by hanging out with friends and playing video games with friends and family. Nathan loves all things Anime, Nintendo and Pokémon, and he loves to listen to music on his mp3 player. His favorite subjects at school are art and cooking but he also enjoys the technology department, and he has designed fidget toys that are created with a 3d printer. Additionally, Nathan is part of the school-work program, where he serves lunch to children with developmental disabilities. Nathan would do best with a family who provides him with structure, shows him love and acceptance, and is able to effectively communicate. He will thrive in an environment that is calm, and it will be helpful for him to have a family who is able to teach him the routine and expectations for his day-to-day activities. Nathan is ready to move on and join a family he can call his own!

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about "Nathan"

"Mia, Jason and Amy"

Mia, Jason, and Amy have a deep and abiding love for one another. They are seeking a family ready and willing to welcome all of them into their home and hearts. Due to confidentiality reasons, their names have been changed. Mia was born in 2009, and she is the oldest of the siblings. Mia enjoys graphic design and photography, and she is very interested in attending cosmetology school in the future. Mia takes pride in her appearance, and she enjoys getting her nails done and dressing on trend. Jason was born in 2012. Jason has a good sense of humor, and he is kind and compassionate, especially with his younger sister. Jason has an interest in video games and animals, particularly exotic animals. Jason does well in school, and he has a special interest in science. The youngest of this sibling group is Amy, who was born in 2017. Amy is a feisty, fun loving, and playful young girl. She has a good sense of humor and is socially smart for her age. Amy is very artistic, likes animals, and she does well, socially and emotionally in school; she receives some additional assistance, academically. This sibling group has a very strong and loving relationship with one another, as well as important biological relationships. They are looking for an adoptive family who has love to share, and who can ensure they never have to lose one another, again. The children would do best in a structured family environment, and it will be important for a family to work with supports to help them understand their past and look forward to very bright futures. These children have triple the love to share with any lucky family.

Email Holly Nesdale to learn more about Mia, Jason, and Amy

Xavier

Xavier was born in 2011, and he is a very sweet, young man who is polite, kind, and likes to be a helper. Xavier likes to play sports, and he has been on sports teams in the past. He, also, enjoys board games, video games, and likes diamond art projects. Xavier gets along well with peers, as well as adults, and he genuinely cares and enjoys when he succeeds. He has been described as, curious, enthusiastic, empathetic, and eager to learn new things. Xavier does very well academically in school and with the love and support of a forever family, he has the potential to go to college and succeed! He dreams of being a construction worker. Xavier has experienced trauma from a young age, and through it all, he has remained resilient and loving to those with whom he is able to bond and build trust. Xavier will do best with a family who can understand his trauma and grief and how it affects him. Xavier would flourish with older siblings, and he loves dogs. His forever family will need to be one who is patient and understanding and willing to love Xavier, unconditionally. If your family would like to help Xavier reach his full potential, please see the contact information, below.

Email Bryan Lerch to learn more about Xavier

"Alex"

Alex is a sweet, young boy born in 2013. He is described as a "little gentleman." Alex loves to dress up in costumes, especially as Marvel characters. He is interested in marine life, specifically sharks. Alex enjoys playing with Legos, as well as playing basketball and football. His favorite holiday is Christmas, and he loves the holiday time of year. Alex has faced many challenges in his young life, including multiple caregivers, and his resilience is evident in his desire to be part of a family. Alex has been able to maintain his current placement for two years despite the challenges, but the family is unable to commit to being a long-term resource. He is working on his struggles and has made progress with identifying his triggers. Alex is working with service providers to address his trauma and needs a family who is willing to also work with services for his optimum success. Alex is looking for a family who is patient, loving and can provide a structured, but nurturing home environment. Alex would like to maintain contact with some of his biological relatives, particularly his grandmother. A family who supports his connections is desired.

Email Holly Nesdale to learn more about Alex

Photographs by Patty Swanson

Patty is a Certified Professional Photographer. She has received the 2017 CTPPA Award of Excellence, 2015 March of Dimes' Mission Triangle Award, and the 2012 and 2013 Connecticut Photographer of the Year awards in Creative and Art/Electronic Imaging.