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childsaving.org

Child Saving Institute
4545 Dodge Street
Omaha, NE 68132
402-504-3666
866-400-4CSI

 

 

Nebraska Heart Gallery of Waiting Children

Nebraska's Waiting Children

Children learn early in life how to wait for things.  They have to wait for Christmas to see Santa Claus.  They have to wait until after dinner to have ice cream.  They have to wait for school to start, and then they can't wait for it to finish.  Waiting, for the most part, is good for children.  It gives them patience, hope and motivation.  Some children, however, have lost their hope and motivation because they are waiting for the one thing most people take for granted ~ a family to call their own.

It is hard to imagine, but currently Nebraska has over 200 children who are without families.  They have been removed from their biological parents, mostly due to abuse or neglect, and are currently living in group homes, shelters, or foster homes.  The hurt these children suffer is unimaginable.  Many have been rejected or hurt by adults so often, they have learned not only to expect it, but also have found ways to protect themselves from it.  These are the children being photographed for the Heart Gallery.  As photographers for this project, it was critical to understand not only these children's grief but also their strength and their spirit.  The children agreed to be photographed because they had hope.  Some put up a tough exterior.  Some refused to smile.  But they agreed to be photographed, because they hoped that this picture would be the one that finally captured a caring adult's heart.

CSI invites you to take the time to get to know the children and youth in these photographs.  See what the photographers saw.  See what each of these children hope to "say" in their pictures.  If they wanted to say that they were sad, or angry, or hyper, or lonely...that was okay!  If they wanted to say that they liked to dance, or they loved animals, or they felt good when they laughed...that was okay too.  That's who they were on the day they were photographed in this moment of their lives.

Child Saving Institute is passionate about its mission, "Responding to the cry of a child."  Thank you for supporting that mission by taking the time to view the photographs of these children.  Children who wait.

Photographer

Ron Deyo

This sibling group of seven is very close and want to be adopted together. They are awesome kids and ready to have a family to call their own. They would do best in a two parent home that can provide them with lots of love and attention. All the kids have different interests and will need a family willing to support each of them in their activities.

Charlotte is a beautiful and affectionate little girl. She is a very typical 2-year-old who likes to look at books and color. Charlotte likes to sing songs about numbers and the alphabet with her little friends at daycare. Born September 2006

Henry likes to help his caregiver out around the house. Henry enjoys playing with toy cars and trucks. He likes to read and color, and enjoys going to the playground with his siblings. Born January 2005

Heaven always has a smile on her face. She loves to be a little helper and likes to help with cooking. Heaven enjoys reading books and her favorite subject in school is reading. Born September 2003

Unique is a bubbly, energetic little girl who likes to dance and wear pink. She enjoys playing outside and likes to entertain others with creative stories and jokes. Born October 2002

Chad is an easygoing little boy with a great smile and an infectious laugh. He prefers to be outside doing something active rather than watching television. On rainy days, he prefers to play video games with his siblings. He likes playing football and soccer. Born October 2001

Louis enjoys joking around and playing with his siblings. He enjoys the typical “boy stuff” such as playing sports, and being outside with his siblings. Louis is an avid artist and enjoys competing in school art contests. Born September 1999

Alicia is a sweet, lovable girl who is best described as a “typical teenager.” She enjoys listening to her iPod and singing her favorite songs. Alicia enjoys learning about her Native American Culture and spirituality is very important to her. Born October 1995

Aliyana

Photographer

Lane Hickenbottom

Aliyana, a soft-spoken, beautiful young lady, can be shy when she doesn’t know someone. When Aliyana gets to know you she has a good sense of humor and can be very funny. Aliyana has a lot of potential in school, but finds it difficult to stay focused. She has shown leadership skills when working in a group. Aliyana enjoys playing basketball and loves to eat Mexican food. As a member of the Omaha tribe, the Indian Child Welfare Act applies to proceedings concerning her, including the placement preferences. Preference will be given to relatives, members of the Omaha Tribe, and members of other tribes. If placement within the preferences cannot be found, a forever family will need to be committed to educating Aliyana about her culture and keeping her connected. Aliyana will need a family who is open to her staying in contact with members of her biological family.

Born May 1997

Stephaney

Photographer

James Birrell

Stephaney is a sweet, charming teenage girl. She loves shopping, jewelry and playing with make-up. She enjoys listening to music and hanging out with friends. Stephaney is an energetic gal who likes to stay active playing sports, including her favorites: swimming, volleyball and basketball. She enjoys learning, but admits that she struggles with Math and English. Her favorite subjects are Science and History. When Stephaney grows up she would like to be a pediatric nurse. When asked what she would like in a family, she said she wants a family who “doesn’t hit kids” or is “mean.” Like most teenagers, she would like a family who allows her to have personal space and freedom. Stephaney has contact with her siblings Tiphaney and Dakota and two siblings who are already in adoptive placements. Stephaney has contact with her maternal grandparents. It will be important that these relationships continue to grow and remain a part of her life.

Born December 1994

Dannon

Photographer

Angela Schumaker

Dannon is a sweet young man who likes art and coloring. Currently in 3rd grade, he is bright and has a lot of academic potential. Dannon is active and enjoys playing outside. He likes video games and playing various hand held games. Of course, watching cartoons is high on Dannon’s list of favorite things to do. Dannon would thrive with a mom and a dad who can provide him with the one-on-one attention he deserves and a strong male role model who will participate in activities with Dannon and guide him as he grows. Dannon must be adopted with his brother Dontavious.

Born May 2000

Scott

Photographer

Tom Goc

Scott is a typical teenager who likes the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Scott enjoys sports and would like to play football. He does well in school, is outgoing, and social. Scott is family oriented and has a strong bond with his sister with whom he would like to stay in contact. Scott would like to be adopted by a two parent family, where there is a strong male role model who can share his hobbies and interests. He would succeed in a home with older children.

Born October 1993

Taevion

Photographer

Ron Deyo

Taevion is a happy, sweet young man who is shy around people he is does not know. He loves the outdoors and sports, especially basketball. Taevian is loving, social and fun. He is curious, enjoys learning new things, and likes school. Taevian puts effort into paying attention and works hard to improve academically. He has numerous friends and is very social.

Born March 2002

Tashasia & Javier

Photographer

Michael Meuret

Tashasia and Javier re outgoing siblings who are looking for their forever family. Tashasia is the oldest and enjoys playing outside with her brother. She loves stuffed animals and playing with dolls, especially her Bratz dolls. Tashasia likes to watch cartoons, but her absolute favorite is Dora the Explorer. Javier likes playing outside with his sister and enjoys riding his bike. Javier likes cartoons and anything to do with Spiderman. In the summer, Javier and Tashasia enjoy playing outside in the sprinklers, and on the Slip ‘n Slide. These children must be adopted together and will do best in a family who is able to set rules and boundaries for the children. They need parents with patience and understanding, and willing to advocate for their academic needs.

Tashasia Born October 2002
Javier Born October 2003

Carina, Christian & Cristiana

Photographer

Ron Deyo

Carina is outgoing and friendly. She likes doing “girly” things, like shopping, polishing her nails and dressing up. Carina enjoys sports; she is involved in volleyball and likes to swim. Carina has tons of friends and likes to hang out. She enjoys school because it is “interesting,” but mostly because she can “spend time with her friends.”

Christian is funny and friendly. He has many friends. Christian likes all kinds of animals and enjoys sports, especially soccer. He is a hard worker and he likes to go to school and learn new things.

Cristiana is outgoing, happy and loving, with lots lots of energy. Cristiana likes “girly” things; she enjoys shopping and playing with dolls. She, too, is social and likes playing with friends. Cristiana is talkative and “goofy.” She likes sports, dance and music and would like to continue taking dance classes.

Carina, Christian and Cristiana will do best in a family with a mother and father. It is important for these kids to maintain their relationship with their Native American culture. The family has to be willing to facilitate contact with the children’s grandmother, some extended family, and members of their tribe. The family best suited for these kids, will be a family who is able to set rules and create a safety plan in the home, as well as provide constant supervision. The family needs to be able to work closely with the children’s therapist.

Carina Born December 1995
Christian Born November 1999
Cristiana Born December 2001

Bobbie

Photographer

James Birrell

Bobbie is an affectionate and energetic young lady who thrives when given one-on-one attention. She loves to play with baby dolls or a game of Monopoly with children close to her age. Bobbie is a fantastic singer and participates in choir. She likes to swim or play soccer. Bobbie enjoys to playing with make-up, nail polish and fake tattoos. She would thrive in a family with structure, and needs unconditional love. Bobbie has a brother and it is important for her to maintain contact with him.

Born January 1996

Charlie

Photographer

Ron Deyo

Charlie, a sweet and loving young boy, would love to have a family. Charlie enjoys the outdoors and keeping active. He likes football and has said many times that he would “like to have a dad that will play football” with him. He enjoys music and dancing. He does well in classes, and plays the trumpet in the school band. Charlie is fun and has a great relationship with his classmates and teacher. Charlie is an articulate child and mature for his age. Charlie would do well with a couple or a single male parent. He would do better in a home with few kids as he likes one-on-one attention.

Born June 1997
 

Rebecca & Renee

Photographer

Katie McWilliams

Twins, Rebecca and Renee, both like the Oakland Raiders.

Rebecca describes herself as funny, caring and unique. Hanging out with friends is her favorite thing to do. When she is not with friends, you can find her on the phone with them. She enjoys playing video games and watching reality TV shows. Rebecca’s favorite subject is math because “it’s fun to learn.”

Renee can be described as laid back and outgoing. She loves playing and watching sports, especially soccer, basketball and football. Renee is social and has many friends. She enjoys spending time with them. Renee’s favorite foods are Mexican, Chinese and Ramen Noodles.

Born February 1992

Travis

Photographer

Erin Schuerman

Travis is a smart young man who loves to live the farm life. Travis really likes to work with animals such as horses, dogs, and cats. Travis enjoys spending time outside and working. Travis needs a family who can provide structure, consistency, support and lots of unconditional love and acceptance. Travis is a resilient young man who has made positive strides in his life despite the obstacles he has faced. Like all youth his age, Travis will need guidance in the years ahead to continue to maintain the positive outlook he has on life. Travis will need a family who will give him opportunities to grow, enjoy school activities, go on family vacations and give him the love he deserves.

Born January 1992

Billy

Photographer

Jeff Bauman

Billy is a teenage boy who likes to play and interact with his peers. He is independent and loves to read a variety of books and magazines. Billy is friendly and likes to help those who are younger than himself. Billy enjoys "hanging out" and talking. Billy would benefit from a structured family who is willing to adopt, or provide guardianship for him. Billy needs supervision to help him make appropriate choices and to make positive decisions. Billy is looking for an understanding family who won’t give up on him. He wants stability and a permanent place to call his home.

Born August 1993

Elexes

Photographer

Paige Balcer

Elexes has a passion for fashion and likes to find new clothes to add to her wardrobe. She is a typical pre-teen who likes the Disney Channel, and watching High School Musical, Cheetah Girls, and Hannah Montana. Elexes likes listening to her favorite music, which includes Hannah Montana. Elexes can be shy at first, but once she gets to know you, she is outgoing and gets along with almost anyone. Playing board games is one of Elexes’ favorite activities, especially if it is UNO or Sorry, and she likes to go roller skating. She would do great in a family who is open to helping her explore her talents and abilities.

Born June 1997

Tiphaney

Photographer

Stephanie Gailliaert

Tiphaney likes to sing and can often be found singing around the house. She is extremely sociable and likes having someone that will talk with her. She has many stories to tell, and always wants to say “just one more thing.” She is a “girly-girl” and likes having her hair done and nails painted. Although Tiphaney does not like sports, she is warming up to the idea of playing sports. Tiphaney would prefer taking a walk to playing sports. She is currently in the chess club and is excited about learning to play. She likes to play a variety of board games, and enjoys playing with her stuffed animals. Tiphaney enjoys school and does very well. It is important to Tiphaney to remain in contact with her biological siblings.

Born October 1996

Keijuan & Keijon

Photographer

Heidi Hoffman

Keijuan and Keijon are brothers who are active in playing sports. They like skateboarding and are always trying to perfect new tricks. Keijuan is a caring and sensitive child, while Keijon is more outgoing and easily connects with new people. Both boys are interested in music and sing in the children’s choir at their church. Keijon is interested in learning how to play the drums and piano. Keijuan and Keijon need a family who is willing to adopt them together. They need a family who will be supportive of them remaining in contact with other members of their biological family.

Keijuan Born April 1998
Keijon Born October 2000

Dakota

Photographer

Brian Baer

Dakota has an adventurous personality. One of his absolute favorite things to do is ride dirt bikes. Dakota is extremely interested in the sport, and would like to continue riding and learning more about dirt bikes. Dakota works hard in school and likes to complete one subject before moving on to the next one. He is a kind child who responds well to rewards. One of his favorite rewards is being able to go out to eat at Applebee’s. Dakota has biological siblings he would like to remain in contact with through phone calls and letters.

Born November 1997

Seneca

Photographer

Tyrone Abdul

Seneca is teenage girl who loves to listen to music. She is a social person and enjoys being around friends and family. She enjoys helping and likes to know she is doing her part with the chores. Seneca is proud to be Native American and is interested in learning more about her culture. The best family for Seneca would be a family who can support her interest in Native American culture. She will need a family who can encourage her to reach her full academic potential. Seneca needs a family who is open to her remaining in contact with her biological brother.

Born September 1993

Jacquelynn

Photographer

Mary Pargett

Jacquelynn is a sweet girl and fun to be around. She is a complete “girly girl” who loves to have her hair done. She likes wearing accessories in her hair and loves to have it braided. In true girly girl fashion, Jacquelynn enjoys having her nails painted and wearing jewelry. She likes playing outside and loves riding her bike. Jacquelynn is very energetic, but likes to relax by watching movies or TV. Jacquelynn would do best in a two parent home as she requires a lot of supervision and attention. She will need a family who advocate for her educational needs. Jacquelynn has biological siblings she will need to be able to remain in contact.

Born January 1997

Alonzo

Photographer

Tom Downey

Alonzo is an artistic child with a love for music. He knows good music when he hears it, which is why The Beatles are at the top of his favorite bands. Alonzo likes to hang out with his friends and can easily make new friends. Alonzo likes to play PlayStation When hanging out with friends. Alonzo has a great sense of humor and can easily make people laugh. Alonzo has a para-educator in school, and is able to earn "A" and "B" grades.

Alonzo has Muscular Dystrophy and is dependent on a wheel chair. He has a motorized power-chair he drives everywhere! Alonzo requires a lot of care and will need a family who has experience working with children needing medical care.


Born March 1996

Darrell

Photographer

Brian Baer

Darrell is a charming, imaginative, intelligent, energetic teenage boy. He has a strong interest in martial arts, specifically Karate and Kung Fu. Darrell would love to take martial arts classes to hone his skills. He is very artistic, has wonderful handwriting, loves to read science fiction and Harry Potter books. He enjoys working with his hands. Darrell has worked hard in school and is working on earning his GED, which he will complete soon.

Darrell likes to try new things and he is determined when he sets his mind to something. Darrell loves technology and would like to invent something new. He helps out when needed, keeps himself and his clothes clean and is a “good” kid. His therapist says there is something endearing about Darrell. She says he is soft-spoken, polite, kind and thoughtful. She hopes an adoptive family accepts Darrell into their family.

Born May 1991

Cassandra

Photographer

Jennifer Olsinski

Cassandra, who prefers to be called Cassie, is a bright and loving teenage girl. Cassie is excited to find her forever family, but is cautious when getting close to someone new. Cassie needs someone she can depend on and wants to be involved in her life. Cassie also needs a positive role model who can help her reach her potential. Cassie enjoys interacting with her peers and sometimes needs encouragement and direction on how to maintain positive peer relationships. She has a biological sister with whom she maintains phone contact. Cassie would like to keep in contact with some of her former caregivers.

Born September 1992

Adrianna, Joseph & Jonathan

Photographer

Angela Schumaker

Adrianna, Joseph & Jonathan are siblings that like to help out. They enjoy feeling like they are included in the completion of chores. Adrianna is the oldest and enjoys going to the movies and hanging out with friends. Joseph is the middle child and enjoys playing sports and riding his “Big Wheel” outside. He loves coloring and has been working on staying in the lines. Jonathan is the youngest and likes playing with his older siblings. He loves when people read him stories, especially when the book is Caillou! These siblings must be adopted together and would do great in a family who can provide structure.

Adrianna Born December 1996
Joseph Born May 2003
Jonathan Born March 2004

Shyanna

Photographer

Farrah Grant

Shyanna is a bright young lady who keeps herself busy with different craft projects. Shyanna enjoys beadwork and knows how to crochet. She likes going to the mall and shopping for new clothes. Volleyball is Shyanna’s favorite sport and she likes to cool off by going swimming. Shyanna does well in school when she is motivated and made the honor roll last year. Shyanna needs a family who can provide her with a lot of love and patience. She would do best in a home with older siblings.

Born February 1995

Scott

Photographer

Roger Ahlers

Scott is a talkative and active boy who has many different interests and hobbies. Scott likes to be outside and especially loves to swim at the pool and ride his bike. He enjoys playing video games, listening to all types of music and looking for interesting rocks for his collection. Scott likes playing football and basketball with his friends during recess. He is an excellent reader and enjoys adventure and mystery novels. He reads sporting magazines about football and basketball to follow all the teams and players. He really likes dogs, and would like to have a pet of his own. He does well in school and earns good grades. Scott wants to have a mom and a dad and would enjoy having siblings. He would love to live in a small town or rural community.

Born February 1998

Michael

Photographer

Tyrone Abdul

Michael is an affectionate, friendly, polite and helpful young man. He likes being outdoors, playing basketball and football. He enjoys animals and watching Animal Planet on TV. Michael is creative and likes to do hands-on activities. He loves praise and is good at keeping eye contact when talking to someone.

Michael needs a loving family willing to provide him with structure and guidance. He needs help with daily living and social skills. Michael has an Individualized Education Plan. He finds it challenging to interact with peers, follow directions and to stay on-task at school. He is polite and helpful in the classroom. Michael needs a family willing to work with the therapist and to help him with academics.

Born January 1999

Preston

Photographer

Bryna Boehle

Preston has an adventurous personality and enjoys participating in different activities. He likes being outside and enjoys sitting by a lake or pond to fish. Preston likes animals and especially enjoys being around dogs. He can often be found hanging out and listening to his favorite music. Preston has a sister he would like to remain in contact with through phone calls, letters, and occasional visits. A home that is highly structured and has a strong male role model would be best for Preston.

Born June 1993

Mike

Photographer

Allison Garrett

Mike is interested in a variety of activities. He loves listening to music and riding his skateboard. Mike enjoys the outdoors and going fishing. He is a bright young man and gets good grades in school and applies himself to what he is learning. He enjoys relaxing by reading a good book. Mike does not have many people in his life and would really benefit from a role model who he can look up too. Mike needs a place to call home and parents who encourage him and help him reach his full potential in life.

Born September 1992

Nakyta

Photographer

Angela Schumaker

Nakyta is a sociable little girl that likes to interact and play with others. She enjoys being active and can often be found riding her bike and playing outside. She likes to create various arts and crafts, and loves it when others do crafts with her. She is a good helper and is a loving child who is always smiling. She develops relationships quickly and is ready to find her forever family. Nakyta has experienced a great deal of loss in her life, and is ready for a family of her own that will love and protect her as well as keep her best interest at heart. She would like a family who allows her to keep in contact with her sisters.

Born July 1997

Cody

Photographer

Stephanie Gailliaert

Cody is a sweet, loveable and intelligent child. He is engaging and sociable and can easily carry a conversation with anyone. He has many interests and likes to participate in a variety of activities. One of Cody’s favorite things to do is crafts. He enjoys riding his bike and playing outside. Cooking is something Cody is interested in and he would like to learn more. He does well in school and is an avid reader. Cody often has knowledge beyond his years and can surprise you with information he knows on various topics he finds interesting.

Born July 1996

Annamaria

Photographer

Shawn Blevins

Annamaria is an active young woman who loves sports, especially basketball. She is sweet and shy, and will talk freely once she feels comfortable. Annamaria has many friends and loves pop music. Annamaria would like to be adopted and have a family of her own.

Annamaria needs a structured but flexible environment. Annamaria is strong willed and will express her opinions. She will thrive with a family willing to support, guide and work with her in developing independent living skills. Annamaria does well at school and would do great with a loving and caring family. She enjoys being around all kind of animals.

Born February 1993

Mark

Photographer

Shawn Blevins

Mark is a social, talkative and friendly young man. He enjoys spending time with friends, listening to music and watching movies. Mark collects Yu-Gi-Oh cards and enjoys being around pets. He is shy and has difficulty talking to people he doesn’t know. Mark is eager to have a family of his own and would fit best with a family with no kids or no younger children. Mark would thrive with a structured family as he needs guidance and stability. Mark will do great in a loving and caring home. He needs a family willing to work with him and participate in his therapy.

Born June 1992

     

Patrick

Photographer

Shawn Blevins

Patrick is a unique teenager who enjoys many different activities. He is very polite and has excellent manners. One of Patrick’s favorite things is going to the movies. While at the movies, it’s hard for Patrick to resist candy and pop which are essential snacks when watching any movie in the theater. Patrick enjoys going out to eat and trying new foods. Patrick enjoys Chinese and Italian foods including pizza and spaghetti. Patrick likes going to the YMCA to participate in various sports and swimming. Patrick can often be found relaxing and playing video games.

Born July 1991

Ronnie

Photographer

Lane Hickenbottom

Ronnie is a kid that you just can’t help liking once you meet him. He is outgoing and full of energy. He enjoys participating in sports and various outdoor activities. He is described as soft spoken, gentle, and a “sweetheart.” He is someone who loves to talk and is easy to get along with. He can be pretty quiet at times, but usually you will find him being social. Although Ronnie has been through some difficult times, he just wants a family and to have a normal life. Ronnie needs a family who can help him learn how to interact more appropriately, especially with peers.

Born May 1994

Brandon

Photographer

Roger Ahlers

Brandon is described as a happy, energetic, “spur of the moment” kid. He loves to sing and entertain. With his charm and great sense of humor, he is a boy who can put a smile on anyone's face. He can come off as a shy kid, but is rather social and outgoing. He can usually be found in a good mood and rarely gets upset. Brandon enjoys the outdoors, fishing and playing sports. He likes kicking back and getting lost in video games.

Born September 1990

Julannia

Photographer

Tammy Arnold

Julannia, who goes by Jules, is a bubbly and energetic pre-teen. Jules has an abundance of interests and likes to be busy. She loves to play sports such as soccer, softball, and cheerleading. She said she likes to play on swing sets. She is interested in swimming, dance and has a great singing voice. Jules has a sweet tooth for ice cream and M&M’s. Jules is loving and likes to give plenty of hugs! She is very good at helping.

Born November 1994

Kylan

Photographer

Angela Schumaker

Energetic, enthusiastic and funny are three words that come to mind after meeting Kylan. He is a “joker” and someone who loves to make people laugh. He enjoys one-on-one interactions and being the center of attention. Due to this, he tends to do better in a smaller classroom with less opportunity for distractions. He is learning new, more appropriate ways to get positive attention. He is described as being “full of love and affection.” He shows his affection by giving hugs. Kylan’s favorite hobbies include playing board and video games, drawing and watching movies. In the past, he has enjoyed collecting sports cards and being around animals.

Born June 1994

Dillon

Photographer

Farrah Grant

Dillon has a great sense of humor. He is funny and enjoys making people laugh. He loves to play video games and building with Legos. Dillon likes to collect things; he has a collection of model airplanes, cars, houses and anything that can be put together. Dillon loves to ride his skateboard and is good at it. Dillon does not like to compete in sports, he prefers to watch. Dillon does not have a lot of friends, but he has a close best friend. Dillon likes pets and enjoys being around them. Dillon would like to maintain contact with his brother, who was adopted by their aunt.

Dillon will thrive with a family that has structure and applies logical consequences as a discipline method. He will do well with a family who can be flexible and will understand him. Dillon would do best with a couple, or a single mother. He enjoys spending time with other children, however, it is recommended that he be placed with children of similar age or older, as he can be a little “bossy” around younger kids.

Born February 1995

Aaron

Photographer

Tyrone Abdul

Aaron is a typical teenager and enjoys typical teenager activities. He takes pride in his appearance - - wants to select out his own clothing and is very particular in those choices. He recently started boxing and found himself to be very good at the sport. Aaron considers himself to be a good friend and is loyal to those in his social circle. Aaron has a good sense of humor and is fun to be around. He likes playing video games and hanging out with his friends. Aaron would like to remain in contact with his biological mother and siblings.

Born August 1994

Kimberlee

Photographer

Laurie and Charles

Kimberlee is a quiet young girl until she gets to know you. She takes her time getting to know others and building trust in those around her. She likes to shop, especially if she can find a new Bratz doll to add to her collection. She enjoys playing sports, especially soccer and basketball, and just being outside. Her current caregivers describe her as being caring, friendly, and having a great sense of humor. Kimberlee enjoys learning and does well in school.

Born February 1996

Andre

Photographer

Denise Turner

Andre is described as a "big teddy bear" with a good heart. If you ask Andre to describe himself, he says he is a fun-loving guy. He loves to color and draw and is a very good artist. He enjoys playing with any sort of toy, but especially likes to play with Legos and Lincoln Logs. Andre likes to be around kids his age and can often be seen outside throwing a football or playing catch with friends. Andre has a sweet tooth and finds Blizzards irresistible!

Andre would love to find a forever family who can give him lots of support and patience. He needs a family who can advocate for his educational needs.

Born November 1992

Raheem

Photographer

Laurie and Charles

Raheem is a sweet, soft-spoken, and endearing young man. He is inquisitive, helpful, and quite talkative. He enjoys playing outdoors, shooting baskets, riding skateboards, playing video games and watching television. Raheem is quite the comedian and can make an entire room laugh. Raheem enjoys attention from adults and thrives when given the appropriate attention. With a strong commitment and on-going support from a stable, loving family, Raheem can grow into the man he is capable of becoming.

Born March 1995

Kelicia

Photographer

Tyrone Abdul

If you ask Kelicia a question, expect an honest answer. She is a very direct, outspoken girl, especially when asked her opinion, but often even when not asked. She is described as being sweet, charming and fun to be around. Her current caregiver states that she is good at stepping up to volunteer when help is needed. Her friends and family are a very important part of her life. She is extremely loyal to the special people in her life, and would do almost anything for them. She enjoys outdoor activities and is described as a “nature person.” She likes to cook and listen to music when she gets the opportunity. Kelicia has an interest in photography and has a desire to learn more.

Born May 1994

Tralan

Photographer

Ron Deyo

Tralan enjoys riding his bike, playing baseball and swimming. He is passionate about designing, drawing, and someday working on cars. He is cooperative, polite and very considerate of others. Tralan is outgoing and has no problems making friends. He enjoys roller-skating and skateboarding with his friends. Tralan does well in school, especially in smaller groups. He enjoys group interaction and is pleased to contribute. Tralan can be quiet and reserved and has a strong sense of fairness.

Tralan says the most important feature he wants in a family is a dad. He would benefit from a strong male role model and an affectionate family. He really wants to belong in a forever family and would do well in a patient and nurturing environment.

Born August 1992

Joe

Photographer

Allison Anderson

Joe can be described as a happy young man and a really good kid. You can usually find him in a positive mood. He enjoys reading, especially Harry Potter, comic books, Pokémon and keeping up on his favorite subject, History. Joe can easily recall various historical facts, particularly information about wars. Like many teenagers, he likes to play Play Station and Game Boy. Working outside and caring for animals are some of his other favorite things to do. He is very sociable and likes to help others and visit with them. Joe keeps himself entertained and enjoys completing activities on his own. He has a sweet tooth, especially for candy and ice cream.

Born February 1992

Jodeci

Photographer:

Tina Gunn

Jodeci, 16, is a young man who is blessed with a natural artistic talent. He enjoys going to the movies, playing video games, roller skating and cooking. Jodeci has a great sense of humor and works through his problems with humor. He wants a family that enjoys doing activities together including bowling, watching scary movies, going out to eat or just going for walks. Jodeci needs a family that provides structure and consistency at home as well as at school. He longs for a place to call home.

LaVontae

Photographer

Katie McWilliams

LaVontae is a boy who has a big heart for family. He yearns to be accepted and loved for who he is. LaVontae has learned to be very adaptable to new situations and loves to try new things. Currently LaVontae’s passions consist of basketball and wrestling. A home that can continue to support and build on LaVontae’s interests would be ideal.

LaVontae would do best in a family that is patient and kind. He needs a lot of time to be heard, so his new family can understand and support his individual needs. LaVontae is lovable and people are always drawn to him when they meet him. LaVontae desires a family that can give him affection and unconditional commitment. It is important for LaVontae to keep in contact with his siblings.

Born: December 1996

Chavon

Photographer

Tyrone Abdul

Witty, bubbly and outspoken are three words that best describe Chavon.  Chavon, 15, has a great talent for dancing and singing.  She is a “natural” when it comes to music and would love to take voice or piano lessons.  Chavon is known for breaking out in dance around the house.  She enjoys an active environment in which she can be encouraged to be herself.  Chavon holds a strong attachment to her siblings and needs a home that will allow her to maintain contact with her sister, Chakayla.
Cassandra & Jean

Photographer

Stephanie Gailliaert

Cassandra has a gentle and sweet disposition and is thoughtful towards others. As she continues to grow she is becoming an outstanding basketball player. You can tell athleticism comes naturally to Cassandra when she is shooting hoops. She puts a lot of effort into everything she does and is a very helpful individual to those in need. She enjoys art and considers herself to be an artist. Cassandra struggles with reading and writing however she is determined to become better at both.

Born: October 1992

Jean is outgoing, smart and easy to get along with. She enjoys trying new things and is not afraid to meet new people. Jean likes athletics including swimming and outdoor activities. Jean was described by a friend as the “girl next door” and the “all-American girl.” Outspoken is a good word to describe Jean as she often speaks her mind without hesitation. She is much like her sister in that she is very helpful. Jean enjoys cooking and is a very imaginative individual who loves to tell stories.

Born: May 1994
Jeremy

Photographer

Stephanie Heller

Jeremy is a good-hearted kid who likes meeting new people. He is really interested in origami, the Japanese art of folding paper into animals and flowers. Jeremy loves to give his creations to people who are special to him. Jeremy likes to teach others his hobby and has a lot of patience when teaching how to fold origami. He enjoys being outdoors and playing sports. Jeremy is Native American and African American and is interested in his heritage and cultures.

Jeremy responds well to love and patience and enjoys one-on-one attention. He likes setting and achieving short-term goals. As a reward for reaching his goals, Jeremy likes going out for treats.

Born June 1993

Marquita

Photographer

James Birrell

Marquita is smart, clever, creative and funny. Being mature and outgoing she gets along with peers. Marquita loves to write poetry and won the Lieutenant Governor Award in South Carolina for a poem she wrote. She loves to sing and dance. Marquita likes school, especially spelling but doesn’t like science. Someday Marquita would like to be either a writer or a singer. She looks forward to a place to call home and a family of her own.

Born May 1993

Jamel

Photographer

Tina Gunn

Jamel (pronounced "Ja-mal") is an adorable boy with a lively personality. He enjoys attention from others and is eager to please. He is polite, talkative and does not hesitate to ask for help. Jamel likes to play video games and watch Disney cartoons. Jamel is an active boy and enjoys playing basketball and football. Rabbits and dogs are his favorite animals to play with, but he also likes fish and parrots. Jamel enjoys being in the outdoors and fishing with his current caregivers. Jamel is creative and his favorite subject in school is art. He likes to practice his numbers in Spanish. Jamel is fascinated with cars and he loves to draw and play with them. Someday he hopes to receive an electric scooter. This is a goal he wants to work toward for improved behavior, or doing well in school.

Jamel needs a family who can provide a lot of structure, consistency, and unconditional love. He has faced many challenges in his life, and has emotional needs. He will need guidance to teach him how to consistently maintain positive relationships with his peers. Jamel is affectionate with his current caregivers, and enjoys giving and receiving hugs. Jamel has so much potential, and needs a strong loving family who he can look up too.

Madison a.k.a. Steve

Photographer

Kate Heller

Madison, who prefers to be called Steve (his middle name), is a typical teenage boy. Steve has a great sense of humor and a bright, contagious smile. He enjoys listening to music, playing video games, and playing basketball with friends.

Steve likes to play football and enjoys wrestling. Drawing is a passion of this young man and he shows great creativity with designs. Steve does well academically in school and was on the honor roll. He wants to find a job for the summer months, and is interested in working outdoors. Steve likes animals.

Steve is looking for a family who provides support and stability. Steve needs a family that can be a strong advocate for him, and would do best in a family with a couple or a single male parent. Steve get along well with other kids.

November 1993

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