Amanda

Daniel

Aiyanna 

Overall healthy, Aiyanna has a peanut allergy and is prescribed an epi-pen.  Due to trauma she has experienced, she attends clinical support; and this will continue, preferably with a patient and loving family involved, to help her understand her past.  A home where she can have her own bedroom will enable Aiyanna to feel safe and respected.  She is actively involved in addressing her trauma; and with time and positive supports, there is great potential for Aiyanna to flourish as a resilient and independent young lady.  

Although well loved by her foster mom, Aiyanna is aware this is not where she will grow up and she is wonders who will raise her.  She deserves a family who will emotionally commit to her for a lifetime and be by her side as she learns about her past and plans for her future.  She is a child who should worry about making friends and having fun; not worrying about whether or not she has a family.  She describes herself as "kind, funny and helpful" and she would love to share these traits with a family.

For information about Aiyanna contact Alysa Adamcewicz: alysa.adamcewicz@klingberg.com

Damani

As a very active 15 year old boy, Damani enjoys playing basketball, riding his bike, dancing and swimming.  He is a handsome young man of African American descent with a bright smile and big brown eyes which are always looking toward growing up and being a member of a family.

As a typical adolescent, Damani will spend his time listening to music and spending individual time with his mentor doing fun things.  He attends church every Sunday where he enjoys participating in the church programs and hanging out having dinner, or going out to the movies, are activities Damani wishes to share with a family where he can be the youngest; or only, child.  A two parent household, or a single dad, would be the ideal match for Damani.

Given his trauma history as a child, this young man has difficulty trusting people when he first meets them.  He can appear shy and does not make eye contact.  However, when he becomes comfortable with a person, he becomes much more relaxed and engaged in conversation and lets his true personality come forward.  He has been learning to control his emotions and social anxieties by using his coping skills, and with positive reinforcement and encouragement he continues to make improvements.

Now that he nears the end of his 7^th grade school year, Damani’s teachers and support staff state he is a leader and role model to other students and he is generally happy at school.  He can have both good and bad days however, he often has a very positive attitude.  The school has noted his intellectual disabilities affect his overall ability to retain or process information, yet with support, encouragement, and frequent reminders he continues to make improvements.  He specifically enjoys math, has excellent money skills and works hard in class. 

Socially, Damani works hard on ignoring and not engaging in matters which do not involve him and he also works on taking responsibility for his actions.  He possesses some basic life skills such as cleaning and organizing his bedroom, doing his own laundry and taking out the trash and with reminders or reinforcement, he has the capability to make progress. 

Belonging to a family who will love him unconditionally and will not give up on him despite his some of his challenges is a lifelong dream for Damani.  He deserves a loving family by his side. 

For more information about Damani contact:  Sandra Tapia-Arcos at email: sandra.tapia-arcos@ct.gov

Jay'Vion

This precious little man will turn ten in July; and he is in need of an adoptive family who will help him celebrate!  Jay’Vion is a handsome and sweet boy who is of African American and Hispanic descent.  Although he is just a little guy, he has some big feelings for which he needs the right family to help him sort them out. 

Jay’Vion has a great imagination and loves to use his creativity while he plays with his toys.  He loves to be inside watching ‘PJ Masks’ just as much as he likes to be outside playing and expending some energy!  He is a kindergarten student who receives supports in school to help him reach his fullest potential.  Close family-school communication is important in fostering seamless transitions as well as to provide consistent expectations for him. 

Jay’Vion needs a very special family who is willing to learn how to best parent him and help him overcome some emotional obstacles.  He has had a pretty rough start but with the right family by his side, he has great potential for his future. 

For information about Jay’Vion contact: Sandra Tapia-Arcos at email: sandra.tapia-arcos@ct.gov

     Eddy     

Finding a family who shares a similar culture and interests are among the wish list items for 14-year-old Eddy.  Eddy has some very funny and distinct preferences, loving spicy foods but hating spicy mustard! His 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 currently resides in a congregate care setting with lots of fresh air and farm animals.  He has a strong affinity for caring for the larger animals on the farm, including the cows and horses; and he has had a special love for larger dogs, which provide him comfort and have been especially useful to him in therapy.  Eddy is a typical "guy" who enjoys 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.

Eddy can describe his ideal family as one with two moms and a large dog.  He would thrive in a family where he is an only child, or as the youngest child in the home, benefitting from the leadership and modeling of older siblings. He is very energetic and needs two-parents who will be patient with him, both with his behaviors and in the length of transition time it may take for him to feel secure within their relationship.

Despite having been let down by important adults in his life, and experiencing significant loss and traumatic incidents, Eddy is an empathic and kind young man who hopes to become a police officer when he gets older.  At times, his adverse life experiences impact his ability to manage his behaviors appropriately, however, he works extremely hard to identify triggering emotions to manage his self-control.  As he grows, he will need a patient and guiding hand along the way.  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…and mean it!

Academically, Eddy is a middle school student who receives special education supports, and he responds well to structure and clear expectations.  He continually works on reducing his negative behaviors in school to fix his mistakes, and identify the causes and emotions leading up to certain behaviors.  He is a "work in progress" and his progress has been amazing.  He looks forward to a family being by his side to help him stabilize and grow, and he craves and deserves a secure and loving family where he can believe in his future.

A longer transition period with ongoing clinical supports for both Eddy and his family will help blend the family unit.  This smart, affectionate, and deserving boy eagerly awaits the opportunity to build a relationship with a family with whom he can develop security and belonging; and where he can grow into a healthy and happy young adult.  Any investment a family places in Eddy will be rewarded ten-fold. 

As the court proceedings for this young man continue, his name has been changed and a growing up family is being sought for 13-year-old 'Cole.'  This resilient and handsome young man of Caucasian decent will require a very specific family to welcome him into their hearts while also willing to learn all about his special needs.  Due to being diagnosed with a rare, hereditary genetic condition, Cole's family will receive extra supports and training to help him reach his fullest potential.

On-going care from specialists such as orthopedics, gastroenterology and neurology allow Cole to be as healthy as he can be.  He receives support within his specialized 8th grade classroom and despite his significant developmental delays rendering him non-verbal, Cole has the ability to make his needs known using his iPad for communicating.  He also uses non-verbal communication skills such as using body language and facial cues.  He works very hard each and every day to be the best he can, and he enjoys praise and affection from adults.

Though he may not engage in play with someone else, he loves to watch other children play and he enjoys any individual attention he receives from older children or adults.  He has been involved in the Special Olympics in the past, and this is an activity he enjoys.  Watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse on TV or listening to fun music with catchy tunes makes Cole smile and content.  He also enjoys having books read to him and will occasionally flip though books to see colorful pictures.  

Routine and structure provided by a patient and calm parent will give Cole every opportunity he needs to continue his progress in learning basic communication skills and empower him in learning some independent daily-life and self-care skills.  His family will be part of a large team of medical and professional providers to meet all of Cole's physical needs and allowing some level of contact with biological family members will assist in attending to his emotional well-being.               

This unique and loving young man needs a unique and loving family to claim him as their own.  He has much love and affection to share with just the right family.

For information about Cole contact Denise Lopez: denise.lopez@ct.gov

"Ana"

As with her brother, 'Adam,' the true name of this sweet and fun young lady is being withheld due to ongoing court proceedings, however, 'Ana' is hoping to find a nurturing family where she and her brother can grow up together.

Singing and music along with painting, clay molding and doing crafts are ways in which 14-year-old Ana loves to spend her time.  She is a former gymnast of Caucasian and Puerto Rican decent with long hair and beautiful eyes which shine when she smiles.  Ana has many friends with whom she enjoys hanging out and she is developing strong independent living skills to broaden her adolescent years. Cleaning around the home, making her bed, doing laundry and cooking are some of the ways Ana is exhibiting her growth as a young teen.  As with any teen, she may require some encouragement and prompting so having a positive parenting role model will go a long way in setting her up for success.

This personable and friendly girl always steps up to the plate to advocate for herself, her brother, and anyone else in need.  While benefitting from structure and consistency, Ana is also flexible and can handle change easily.  Her high school career has started off strong with excellent attendance and a strong work ethic to maintain her grades.  She has some educational supports during the day to help her achieve her goals.

Safety and security are paramount needs for Ana, and she longs to belong to a family where she and her brother can enjoy being together.  'Adam' looks up to his big sister and she cherishes their relationship.  She is a lover of Chinese food and will happily go out to the buffet for special family dinners.  To further her independence and maturity, Ana hopes to obtain her first part time job when school lets out for the summer.

When she envisions her future, Ana sees herself living within a family alongside her brother where they will be welcomed family members.  She deserves to be given unconditional love, support and guidance as she grows up and any family will benefit from getting to know this wonderful young lady.

For information about 'Adam' contact Mary Manning: Mary.Manning@klingberg.com

"Adam"                     

Due to ongoing court proceedings, "Adam" is not this young man's true name, however what stands true is how special he is and his hope to find a patient family who will unconditionally provide him with a fresh start in his young life. Adam is 12 years old with a funny and sociable personality.  He is of Caucasian and Puerto Rican decent, has a kind and caring heart and is extremely loyal and forgiving.  Alongside his sister, 'Ana,' he craves to belong in a family who will stand strong with him, despite any obstacles he encounters.

Adam works very hard to be the best version of his self both in the home and at school, however, due to many adults failing to meet his emotional needs, he experiences feelings of self-doubt which requires encouragement. He sometimes tries too hard when making friends, and this can negatively impact the friendship.  He is working hard on his interactions and is looking forward to meeting new people and forming more healthy friendships.  Adam would benefit from a positive adult who can recognize and remind him of his many strengths. Trust does not come easily for him, and a family must be willing to put in the effort and be patient.  Once he feels secure, Adam's bright and wonderful personality shines through. 

A strong sibling relationship exists between Adam and his sister, and he learns a lot from spending time with her and sharing experiences.  Together, they both hope to find their perfect family, where they can live and grow up together.  A positive parental role model would be ideal to help provide guidance as he embarks on a journey toward becoming a successful adolescent, just like his sister.  Sharing a home with other children around his age or older, and a family with dogs, would be a perfect match! 

In his 5th grade class, Adam receives support to help to increase his ability to better concentrate and learn.  He developed an interest in art which has grown into a great talent.  He has also learned ways to express his emotions through his art.  Adam never bores of building with Legos, playing video games and watching television. He has played on recreational football and wrestling teams, and he enjoys being active.

Above all, Adam just wants--and deserves--to be loved and know that he and his sister are finally home, together. 

For information about 'Adam' contact Mary Manning: Mary.Manning@klingberg.com

"Brian"

Since the legal proceedings have not yet concluded, Brian is not the true name for this very special 12-year-old boy.  What is true, however, is Brian's desire to grow up in a family where he will receive unconditional love and support.

Brian is of Caucasian descent and stocky build.  He is presently residing in a special setting able to meet his needs, however, he is ready to join a family familiar with, or willing to learn about, Autism.  With supports, consistency and structure, Brian has made great strides in learning appropriate behaviors and developing positive social interactions.  Although Brian displays dysregulated behavior at times, he has learned to "take space" when he needs a moment or two to calm himself down.  A chore chart helps Brian know what needs to be done and he responds well to positive reinforcements.  He makes his own bed and he selects his own outfits for school with pride. 

As a 7^th grade student in an extended day, extended year, educational setting, Brian is working very hard at meeting all his educational goals.  He continues to require a high degree of visual supports and staff prompting to complete his work; however, this young man has the resilience to work hard on his self-help skills and following a schedule independently.  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.  Recently he asked for his hair to be cut short "like Buzz Lightyear" and his innocence is charming.  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 with whom Brian can spend time, however, they cannot care for him full time.  Their involvement in his life is positive and will continue.  The family members give Brian a sense of familial connectivity and 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. A two-parent home where there are no pets in the home would be ideal.  DCF will work as a team with his family to ensure his successful transition into, and ultimate creation of, a family where he can grow for a lifetime. 

For information about 'Brian' contact Sandy Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov

"Connor"                                                                                                

A very special family is being sought for 'Connor,' a 15-year-old adolescent.  Connor is not his real name due to confidentiality at this point, however, he is a resilient youth ready to be discharged from his hospital setting and ready to join a family capable of meeting his diverse medical needs.

This handsome young man is of Caucasian descent with dark hair and a smile which envelops his whole face.  Despite being non-verbal, Connor communicates excitement with his bright eyes and body motions.  He is happy overall but at times when he presents as uncomfortable, he needs a family to sooth and comfort him.  Connor is diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and spastic quadriplegia. His substantial medical concerns will last throughout his lifespan and he is wheelchair dependent, and a home is needed to accommodate his challenges.

Connor is in the 10^th grade where he receives special education services.  His teacher reports he is making good progress in all goals and he enjoys social interaction with his friends.  Listening to music and toys that make noise brings joy to Connor's daily life.  He loves the feel of being outdoors and having stuffed animals around him for comfort.

Given his profound medical condition, Connor will be followed closely by many medical professionals to ensure he maintains his optimum health and any family considering the care of him will need to attend many medical appointments on a regular basis, as well as engage with service providers in the home.

Connor will require comprehensive care from loving adults for his lifetime and although he will be medically dependent on others for the rest of his life; what he really needs is a family he can depend on.

For information about 'Connor' contact Sandy Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov

Mahki

On the cusp of beginning high school, 13-year-old Mahki is yearning to join a family who will share with him all the joys and challenges adolescence brings.  He is a friendly young man who is respectful and enjoys in engaging with others. He eagerly awaits the opportunity to build a relationship with a family with whom he can develop a sense of security and belonging.

Due to exposure to significant traumatic events in his past, as well as the on-going rejection by many adults, Mahki struggles with allowing himself to be vulnerable in a relationship and his family will need to be patient and supportive while he, and his family, continue to work with clinical supports to overcome his past. He needs to be reassured adults can be safe and he can rely on them.  Trust in a family's willingness to 'not give up' on him while he attends to his strong emotions will be a key element to his success.  To expect him to be 'quick' in his ability to heal and address his past will be unrealistic; and he will require constant reassurance he is worth the wait. 

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, using his mind to build and put things together.  Additionally, he enjoys riding his scooter, playing video games, and reading. 

Overall, Mahki needs a very special family who will commit to giving him the opportunity to know and feel what it's like to be loved and wanted.  He wants more than anything to belong to a home and a family, and that family needs to be willing to 'prove' he is worthy of this dream.

Mahki is a smart, handsome, and deserving boy who needs a family in his life to help him grow and be successful.  He is looking for a place where he can grow into a healthy and happy young adult, where he will be provided all of the feelings belonging to a family everyone deserves.

For information about Mahki contact Sandy Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov

Jeayson

A patient and loving family, experienced with autism-or willing to learn-is being sought for newly turned five-year-old Jeayson.  This little love bug will brighten anyone's family with his sweet smile and affection.

Jeayson's family will be supported by a myriad of medical and therapeutic services.  He was a pre-term newborn who has always struggled with weight gain and developmental delays.  He has made great strides in learning to eat, however, still has a G-Tube for some feedings.  When he eats, he is a typical little guy who loves chicken nuggets, hot dogs and fruit cups!

Starting kindergarten this year will be a milestone for Jeayson and he will receive supportive services in the classroom to assist him in reaching his full educational potential.  As he is non-verbal, he is adapting to making his needs known in other ways.  CCMC has been his main team of providers, and he will also begin services through the UCONN Health Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Services in the fall.  With all of these supports in place, the hope is for his family to take the lead and become the "captain" of his team!

Despite his many medical and developmental struggles, Jeayson is an overall happy little boy who loves to play with his toys and expend excess energy by running around and playing outdoors.  While he will struggle with behaviors at times, he is affectionate and loves to be hugged; and will meet you with open arms to welcome a squeeze or two.

Without doubt, parenting Jeayson will bring some challenges; but right alongside those challenges will be joy in knowing he will grow up to become a happy young man with a family by his side.

For information about Jeayson contact Adam Liebowitz: adam.liebowitz@ct.gov

Bella

Nine-year-old Isabella, or Bella as she is called, is a robust little girl with light brown hair and fair skin.  Bella is seeking to become a family member with two parents and older siblings willing to learn about her and help her to grow up to be the healthiest and happiest young lady she can become.

"Highly curious and extremely active" are descriptors which come to mind when thinking about Bella's personality.  She likes to give hugs and kisses and enjoys attention and affection from those who care for her.  Having been born with a very rare genetic condition where various amounts of genetic material is missing from one of her chromosomes, as well as some exposure to substances while in utero, Bella is a little girl who will require life-long support and care.  She is overall medically stable; however, it is generally difficult to predict long term outcomes for children with this genetic condition.

Educationally Bella receives supports in school and throughout her extended year program.  A behaviorist works with the school and the after-school program to help everyone best meet Bella's needs. There are times Bella's negative behaviors are able to be redirected, however, her impulsivity and desire for attention sometimes get in her way. 

This little girl loves rainbows and animals. She happily plays on her tablet, makes puzzles or creates with putty.  Her short attention span requires much attention from adults, and music is used to help her calm down at times.  Of all the things Bella enjoys, all of it pales in comparison to the desire for her to be able to join a family where she can receive the unconditional acceptance and love only a family can provide.

For information about Bella contact Ginny Curbow: virginia.curbow@klingberg.com

"Drew"

A truly special family in the Norwich/New London area is being sought for 14-year-old "Drew."  Due to pending legal proceedings, Drew is not this young man's real name, however, the need for him to feel loved and secure within a family is very real.  Drew appears physically older than his teenage years, and he is fondly referred to as a "big teddy bear."  Drew is a very tall and husky young man; however, he has a sweet, innocent disposition. 

Drew has a special relationship with some relatives who, although he cannot live with them, love him very much and will remain a part of his life.  A family willing to accept him into their lives will benefit from these extended family relationships and his ideal family would have no younger children as their exuberance can be agitating for him.

Some things Drew would love to do with his family include listening to music, watching YouTube videos and sharing meals.  He loves all types of food!  Drew 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.  His Autism diagnosis and limited verbal skills do not limit him in any other way.  He is kind and thoughtful and loves to think about presents and making Christmas lists for others.

A special school environment has been successful in meeting his educational needs, and he is adored by his teachers and school staff.  When his surroundings become overstimulating, he will stand up and begin flapping his hands above his head for about one minute and then he sits back down.  He is not easily flustered and solid communication between school and home provides the structure and consistency he needs for ultimate success.

The legal process for Drew will be on-going for some time, however, stability within a patient family is his most immediate need right now! He will thrive within a family where he feels connected and secure and understands he does not need to move to any other home.

For information about Drew contact Denise Lopez: denise.lopez@ct.gov

"Jacob"

A very special family is being sought for 'Jacob,' a sweet 9-year-old boy.  Jacob is not his real name due to confidentiality, however, he is a resilient young boy who is ready to be discharged from a hospital setting and ready to join a family capable of meeting his medical needs.

This adorable boy is of Caucasian descent with dark hair and a smile that lights up the room.  Jacob is non-verbal and blind but he hears and responds best when told what will be happening, he enjoys toys that make music and vibrate.  At times Jacob will present as uncomfortable but he is able to make noise if he's frustrated or in pain to alert those around him, he needs a family to sooth and comfort him.  Jacob is diagnosed with Hydrocephalus, Epilepsy and Arnold-Chiari malformation. Jacob requires total assistance for all activities of daily life (bathing, dressing, and nutrition).  His medical concerns will be ongoing as he grows up and he is wheelchair dependent.  A home is needed to accommodate his challenges, but nursing supports are available to assist as well as medical training to learn about his specific needs.

Jacob is in the 5^th grade where he receives special education services.  His teachers report he is making good progress in all goals and he enjoys social interaction with his peers.  Listening to music and toys that make noise brings joy to Jacob's day.

Jacob will be followed closely by many medical professionals to ensure he maintains his optimum health and any family considering the care of him will need to attend medical appointments on a regular basis, as well as engage with service providers in the home.

Jacob will require comprehensive care from loving adults for his lifetime and although he will be medically dependent on others for the rest of his life; what he really needs is a family that will love him and be by his side forever.

For information about Jacob contact Sandy Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov

"Garrett"

Snuggling in soft blankets and sharing chocolate ice cream are just two examples of things nine-year-old 'Garret' would like to do with a family where he can thrive and grow.  As legal proceedings are still underway, Garrett's name has changed due to confidentiality, however, what has not changed is the need for him to feel safe, secure, and unconditionally loved for a lifetime.

A family who is already knowledgeable about Acute Autism Spectrum Disorder, or one willing to learn, would be ideal for Garrett.  He is an energetic and curious child who thrives with structure and routine. Although mostly non-verbal, he can communicate a few words with repetition.  Services within his 4^th grade special educational setting aid him in reaching his fullest potential.  There are many supportive systems in Garrett's life, and he also has biological family members who are very important people to him.  Although they cannot care for him full time, the relationships are vital and need to be sustained.

Garrett's loving and gentle personality shines when he is calm and relaxed, however, when he is unable to verbally express his needs and becomes frustrated, his negative behaviors require special attention.  He is a sweet little boy who enjoys playing with stuffed animals and watching movies.  He also loves watching TV, going on the swing, and playing with blocks or any activity that involves using his hands to build.

A patient, loving and structured family, where Garrett can know what to expect each day, will enjoy his hugs and watching him grow and develop.  He does well with animals and likes to be affectionate with adults.  He is a very special little boy, looking for one very special family!

For information about Garrett contact Sandy Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov

Ektor

Happy, sweet and inquisitive are just a few words which come to mind when describing 11-year-old Ektor.  As a result of his premature birth, Ektor has some significant medical issues which will impact him for a lifetime, but he needs a family by his side to help him reach his fullest potential!

Although he is limited verbally, Ektor has the ability to make his needs known by his expressions and his gestures.  He continues to make much progress in his vocalizations and is starting to formulate short sentences.  He is wheelchair dependent, however, if on the floor he can use his arms and upper body strength to scoot himself around.  He has a stander he can use both at home and in school.  Various supports such as occupational and physical therapy, as well as routine appointments and a hip surgery in the summer have helped him improve his range of motion and resulted in his medical stability.  Educationally Ektor is receiving instruction in a small group setting at a pre-kindergarten level.  He is described as inquisitive and eager to learn.

Always curious about his surroundings, Ektor loves animals and firetrucks and likes to play in the pretend kitchen at school.  He has the strong will of a survivor mixed with the innocence of a child, and all who meet him says his infectious joy is a delight to be around. 

A very special family is being sought for this very special little boy.

For information about Ektor contact Olivia Mott: olivia.mott@klingberg.com

Isabella

Sweet and giggly, 10-year-old Isabella is just like every other little girl who deserves to be part of a family where she is loved and cherished.  Having been born prematurely, Isabella, or Bella as she likes to be called, has some medical issues which will stay with her for life.  However, this inquisitive and determined little girl never lets her disabilities outshine 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.  She is sensitive to some sounds, so her reactions could take the form of screaming or appearing panicked.  She is working hard and increasing her language skills, however, she can also communicate through her iPad and let her needs be known.

Being wheelchair dependent for mobility, Bella also utilizes a stander and is able to "bunny hop" around the home.  She receives various therapies to increase her movements, and she loves the feeling of being "stretched" to improve her muscle tone.  Working on her independence, Bella can feed herself, drink from a sippy cup and propel her wheelchair to get where she needs to go.  Structure and routine are important for her success, and she shows up to her 5^th grade classroom prepared and ready to work.  Her positive energy can be felt by her teachers and her friends.

Given Bella's medical and physical condition, she will be followed closely by professionals, both in and out of the home environment, to ensure she maintains her optimum health. She will need ongoing care from loving adults over her lifetime during which she will reward her family with hugs, smiles and love in return.

If you are interested in learning more about Bella please contact Sandy Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov

Teagan

Watch a video of Teagan

With his wink and sweet smile, alongside his happy disposition, 13-year-old Teagan is deserving of a one or two parent family who will love him unconditionally while attending to his special needs.  Although ideally his family would already be versed in the needs of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, this is not a requirement to start.  Although he has some very specific and unique challenges, with the right family, he can thrive, and blossom and his family will be rewarded with his reciprocal love and affection.

Described as a daytime “rabbit,” Teagan is an energetic young man who has a hard time sitting still.  He likes to be active and can be impulsive, 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 can make his needs known by using some sound vocalizations.  Engaging in face-to-face communication enables successful interactions and he understands what is being said to him.   

Teagan enjoys watching TV and smiling and moving to the sound of music. In time, he may have the opportunity to engage in activities such as riding a bike, playing with age-appropriate toys, and independently playing outside, however for the time being, his inability to assess safety requires constant supervision and attention.  He responds well to consistency, routine, structure, and nurturance and his behaviors are not an intentional means to disobey, rather, a consequence of his inability to understand cause and effect. 

Attending therapeutic school where his education is enriched and his social development enhanced, has allowed Teagan to enjoy interactions with his teachers and friends.  While he may struggle to pay attention at times, he always works as hard as he can!  Therapeutic connections will remain in place to help Teagan and his family with a successful transition; and working collaboratively with helping professionals will be crucial to a family’s success.

Parenting Teagan may bring both joys and challenges along the way, but watching him make progress and grow into the special young man he can become will be a lifetime of rewards for him and his family.  

If interested in learning more about Teagan please contact Olivia Mott: olivia.mott@klingberg.com

Bobby

Meet Bobby, a little ball of energy, who will melt your heart and keep you on your toes! This three-year-old little love-bug has not stopped overcoming challenges since he was born very premature.  He is a sweet, loving and happy toddler who brings joy wherever he goes.

Due to his prematurity, Bobby has many medical and developmental challenges, and his resiliency shines every day.  A diagnosis of autism makes him special and unique and with the right family by his side, he will flourish and grow.  Although he is considered non-verbal, his language is developing, and when he needs help with words, he can use his 'communication device' or some sign language.  He loves music and having stories read to him and someone to play cars and trucks with him.  His favorite toys now are tractors and construction vehicles. 

Supportive services at home and in his preschool program allow Bobby every opportunity to grow and learn.  He is very sociable, but sometimes can become over stimulated.  Despite this, he is easily calmed and can return to what he had been doing.  Occupational, speech and physical therapies work to help strengthen his physical abilities as related to mild cerebral palsy, and he has shown growth in these areas. He wears ankle braces when playing outside to help reduce his tendency to fall.  Dangerous situations and safety concerns are not understood by Bobby.  He needs consistent supervision to prevent him from putting himself in harm's way.  As with any other toddler, he thrives on consistency and routine, and with patient parents, his happy disposition will enable him to work through any challenge which comes his way. 

A family will receive specific trainings to understand all of Bobby's multiple medical needs and working with medical providers will provide supports in all areas.  There is much potential for this little guy to grow up healthy and bring giggly laughter to just the right family!

For information about Bobby contact Denise Lopez: denise.lopez@ct.gov

Ivan

Meet Ivan, a gifted and talented 12-year-old who is eagerly hoping to find a family where he can express himself freely while figuring out his identity and place in the world.  Ivan is hoping to join a family where there are no other children, or children who are significantly older, allowing for a positive role model.  Being able to express his creativity from within will allow Ivan to flourish and become an amazing adolescent.

Social supports in his school allow this 6^th grade student to work to his fullest potential and his polite and well-mannered presentation allows him the ability to engage in respectful and engaging conversation.  At times his emotions may negatively affect his friendships, but he works hard at learning better ways to express himself.  A creative youth who does not enjoy team sports, Ivan shines when he is able to do the things of interest to him.  He loves music and dance, he crochets, he is artistic and is excellent at drawing. Style and fashion are important to him, and he takes pride in his appearance, styling his hair fashionably, wearing jewelry, nail polish and makeup.

A family who would support his creativity, where he may also be able to have a pet, would be an ideal fit for this young person.  Ivan specifically stated he would want to join a family where boundaries and expectations were clearly stated but most importantly, he wanted patient parents who would not be so strict that they yell at him for minor mistakes.

Many adults have failed to provide Ivan with the unconditional love and acceptance any child deserves.  He wishes to belong to a family who is open and accepting and one who truly wishes for him to be part of their lives.  This young person has much to offer this world and is seeking a family to be by his side to guide him into adulthood.

For information about Ivan, please contact Sandra Tapia-Arcos: sandra.tapia-arcos@ct.gov

Photographed by:  Patty Swanson - Certified Professional Photographer (2017 CTPPA Award of Excellence;  2014-15 March of Dimes' Mission Triangle Award;  2012-2013 2x Connecticut Photographer of the Year, Creative and Art/Electronic Imaging.)  www.pattyswanson.com and www.facebook.com/pattyswansonphotography