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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.

Nisa & Sara

Photographer

Tina Gunn

Nisa and Sara are siblings who both have big hearts for animals. Nisa enjoys swimming, playing games and aspires to learn to play the flute. She can be social and enjoys typical teenage interests like hair, make-up, and clothes. Sara likes playing cards and board games, and enjoys playing with her Barbies and stuffed animals. She likes to help out around the house and is especially motivated by a little allowance. She recently joined Girl Scouts and loves attending summer camp. These sisters love each other, and would like to find a family willing to adopt them together.

Nisa Born October 1995
Sara Born November 1999

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

Ian

Photographer

Collin Geldmeier

Ian is a handsome and affectionate little boy. He enjoys playing outside, loves nature and likes to trade super heroes cards. Ian does well academically and is a good communicator though he is improving his social skills. Ian responds well to positive reinforcement and enjoys one-on-one time.

Ian will thrive with a family who gives him support, guidance and stability. He needs a family willing to work with his therapist. Ian can be aggressive toward younger kids and it is recommended that he is placed with a family in which he is the youngest child.

Born October 1999

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

Stormy & Summer

Photographer

Jennifer Olsinski

Stormy and Summer are active siblings who love to be outdoors. In the summer months, they can often be found at the swimming pool. They recently enjoyed a day of fishing and boating. The girls like being around animals and Stormy especially likes horses. They both love anything to do with Hannah Montana and High School Musical. Stormy and Summer enjoy working with different crafts. Summer is interested in sewing and uses her sewing kit to make fashionable clothes for her dolls. Stormy recently attended a summer camp and had a great time participating in the many activities, especially the zip line. These girls must be adopted together. They would love to find a family.

Stormy Born April 1996
Summer Born January 1998

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 loves 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

Chyann & Nathen

Photographer

Stephanie Gailliaert

Chyann is an energetic and fun loving young lady. She loves to play outside, swim, and read. Chyann is always ready to learn something new. She enjoys school and does well academically. Chyann hopes to be adopted by a family who has pets, because she loves animals. Chyann takes ballet class and is a very good ballerina. Chyann is very close to her older brother, Nathen. It is important that Chyaan and Nathen be placed together.

Chyann needs a family who is structured and organized and can convey clear expectations. Chyann will do best with a family who has a strong support system; because she needs to be placed with her brother and both need one-on-one attention. Chyann has some behavior problems at school and needs a family willing to work closely with school personnel to help her achieve her educational goals. It will be very important for Chyann and her brother to be provided with a consistent, patient and loving family.

Born January 2002

Nathen is a very active boy who loves to be outside. He can spend hours riding his bicycle, skateboarding, or roller-skating. When Nathen is unable to play outside he enjoys playing video games, or watching baseball games on TV. Nathen can be shy when he does not know someone. Nathen loves animals and excels in school. Nathen is very nice; he likes to please and is always willing to help people.

Nathen will do best with a couple, and he is good around children of all ages. It is recommended that he be the youngest in the home, as he can be a little aggressive towards younger children. Nathen needs a family willing to allow him to maintain contact with his brother and extended family. Nathen will thrive in a family where there is a strong male role model. He needs a family who is able to set firm limits, and support his ongoing therapy.

Born March 2000

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

Montreon & Rayveon

Photographer

Farrah Grant

Montreon's biggest dream is having a family for his brother and himself. He wants parents who will be there for them forever. Montreon is very close to his brother. When asked what he would like to have in his adoptive home, he said he would like to have his own bedroom and a large yard to play in. He enjoys playing with cars, trains, and trucks. Montreon likes to play sports like basketball and football. He has a good sense of humor and is unique in everything he does. He is curious and asks a lot of questions and loves to learn new things. Montreon is shy, until he feels comfortable. He is sweet and very respectful. Montreon loves animals and enjoys learning about them.

Born August 1999

Rayveon is a curious, intelligent young man. He is opinionated and becomes serious when learning about new things. He is polite, and well-mannered. Rayveon is close to his older brother and enjoys school, even though at times he struggles. When asked, Rayveon stated he would like to have his own bedroom, decorated with Spiderman items. Rayveon would like to be a police officer or a fireman someday and enjoys being around animals. He would love to have a pet of his own.

Born February 1998

Montreon and Rayveon would thrive with a couple or a single parent family. The right family has to be willing to support the boys academically by helping them stay on top of homework and work closely with the school. The boys need strong role models. The ideal family will need to teach them about how to belong to a family and the roles of each member of the family. The boys need a family that would be structured, consistent and loving.

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

Laurie and Charles

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

Melissa

Photographer

Jennifer Olsinski

Melissa is a shy and quiet girl until she gets to know you. When she opens up, she’ll tell you she loves to sing and dance. If you ask her who her favorite singer is, she quickly responds with “Justin Timberlake.” She likes some classics from Michael Jackson and Madonna. Melissa is a laid back girl who keeps herself busy by reading, or watching television. She taps into her artistic side by using her array of art supplies to draw or paint. Melissa would love to find a family who can show her unconditional love and patience. Melissa would thrive in a home where she is the youngest child.

Born March 1995

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

Kirstie & Promise

Photographer

Tyrone Abdul

Kirstie, is a spunky young lady who absolutely loves to dance! She’s a girl who likes to remain on the go and enjoys playing sports, especially basketball, and likes to shop.

Born October 1996

Promise, is an energetic little girl who loves to be active. Promise enjoys playing sports and says her absolute favorite sport is volleyball. She loves to spend time outdoors. Promise enjoys going to the mall with her sister to shop. Promise has struggled with school in the past, but recently make great strides in the classroom, although she sometimes needs reminders to complete her homework.

Born August 1998

Kirstie and Promise look up to each other and would love to find a family who can adopt them together.

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.

Bobbie

Photographer:

Tina Gunn

Bobbie, 11, is an affectionate young lady who thrives when given one-on-one attention. She loves to play with children her age and likes to play board games, particularly Monopoly. She would do well with a family with structure and unconditional love. Bobbie has a brother and it is important to her that she maintains contact with him.

Bradley

Photographer:

Tyrone Abdul

Bradley, 17, loves to draw and has a natural artistic ability. He enjoys being active in any way possible, especially outdoor activities, such as basketball, fishing, swimming and caring for his cactus plants. His interests include listening to music and cooking as he is helpful in the kitchen. Bradley is a delightful and cooperative young man. He strives to do well and has high hopes for his future. He has a strong desire to fit in with those around him, and he needs a family who can help him learn positive and appropriate social skills. He would do best in a home that is structured and has clear goals for him.

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 grown 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 shape 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.
Anthony

Photographer

Farrah Grant

A handsome smile and urge for excitement is a great way to describe Anthony, 14, who enjoys playing video games and football with his friends.  He says when he grows up he wants to be a football player, and if that does not work out, he will “look into other options.”  Anthony is spiritual and enjoys going to church weekly.  He also enjoys going to movies; favorites include Omega Code II and Fat Albert.  His favorite subject in school is Social Studies, but he admits that this is due to liking the teacher more than the subject.  Anthony is imaginative and has a passion for writing.  He longs to be adopted and have a place to call “home.”

Kayla

Photographer

Lane Hickenbottom

Kayla describes herself as being "cute." She has a friendly smile, likes to visit and always eager to help. She enjoys reading books, cooking, playing with make-up, riding her bicycle and jumping on the trampoline. She likes to participating in several sports in the Special Olympics, including swimming, bowling, track and basketball. She does better interacting with adults than with her peers or younger children. Kayla likes one-on-one attention and to be the center of attention. She would do well in a home that is structured and consistent.

Born January 1991
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

Jessica N

Photographer

Laurie and Charles

Jessica is a bright and lively young woman who loves to play outside and loves to spend time with her friends. She enjoys playing league softball at the YMCA. Jessica's favorite animals are dogs and she would be thrilled to live with a family that has pets. Jessica has a sense of humor, loves to laugh and is very polite in her interactions. Another favorite pastime of Jessica’s is watching television. Jessica’s greatest strength is her ability to be a good student and studies hard. She enjoys learning. Jessica recently received a reward at school for being a Positive Student and was awarded the “Citizen of the Month” award.

Jessica would do well in a structured environment where the limits are clearly defined and her positive actions are praised. A family in which Jessica would be the youngest child would be the best match. Jessica is good at asking for assistance with problems and would succeed in a home that includes positive and appropriate communication.

Born February 1993

Crystal C.

Photographer

Stephanie Kimberling

Crystal C., 17, will catch your heart. Crystal is a cheerful young lady who always has a smile on her face. Crystal’s current caregivers describe her as "outgoing, kind, charming, artistic, attractive, polite, fun, and a good reader." Crystal enjoys music of all kinds, doing crafts and helping others. Crystal desires the opportunity to interact with others and she easily gets along with adults and peers. She describes herself as easy going, humorous, smart and a beautiful person.

Crystal’s interests include horseback riding, swimming, playing volleyball and watching movies. She would like to become a veterinarian, because she loves caring for animals. Her school teachers say she has made significant improvements and that she maintains good grades. Crystal is an energetic person who likes to help others. Crystal says that she would just like to live a “normal life” as a part of a happy family.
Jeremy

Photographer

Stephanie Heller

Jeremy, 13, is Native American and African American. He is very proud of his heritage.  He likes to play football and basketball.  Jeremy’s favorite subjects in school are spelling and reading.  To keep himself calm, he likes to listen to the radio or do origami, the Japanese art of folding colored paper into shapes of animals and flowers.  Jeremy enjoys teaching others how to make origami and he loves to give his creations to those who are special to him.  Jeremy does best with one-on-one attention.
Dylan

Photographer

Angela Schumaker

Dylan is an incredibly charming, charismatic young man. He has many friends and a warm personality. He enjoys playing football, wrestling, playing games and telling stories. He will regale you with stories about working on the farm, the pivot irrigation system, volunteer firefighting, and has expressed his desire to become a fireman. Dylan has an outstanding memory and despite his obviously rough past, you can tell he really treasures and holds on to positive memories.

Born October 1991

Zach

Photographer

Angela Schumaker

Zach is a smart young man and is known to have quite a sense of humor. He can get a laugh out of almost anyone. Zach is outgoing and can often be found riding his bike outside. He enjoys playing sports and would like to get more involved in baseball and basketball. When not playing outside Zach loves to collect and play with Pokémon cards and video games. Having an older brother or male role model would be important to Zach when finding a permanent family. Zach would thrive in a home with lots of encouragement and structure. He would benefit from being the youngest child in the family.

Born May 1996

Marquita

Photographer

Bill Wynn

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

Pauline

Photographer

Angela Schumaker

Pauline, 6, is energetic and constantly on the move.  She loves to play outside, draw and watch movies.  One of her favorites is Muppets in Space.  Pauline possesses a love for health foods such as pop tarts, potato chips and chewing gum.  Her favorite color is, without hesitation, purple.  She loves to color and her current challenge is working on staying within the lines.

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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