Connecticut Heart Gallery

Carlos

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

Email Bryan Lerch to learn more about Carlos

Anthony

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

Email Adam Liebowitz to learn more about Anthony

Jay’Vion

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

Email Mary Olmeda to learn more about Jay’Vion

Eddy

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

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Eddy

Jonah

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

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Jonah

Danny

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

Email Bryan Lerch to learn more about Danny

Devin

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

Email Denise Lopez to learn more about Devin

Amanda

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

Email Sandra Carroll to learn more about Amanda

David

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

Email Mary Olmeda to learn more about David

Xavier

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

Email Bryan Lerch to learn more about Xavier

Aiyanna

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

Email Mary Olmeda to learn more about Aiyanna

Mariselly

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

Email Sandra Carroll to learn more about Mariselly

Alysia

Alysia is a very bright, creative, and engaging young girl with a dynamic personality and a strong desire to connect with others.  She enjoys expressing herself through hair styling, makeup, crafts, and knitting; she especially loves doing makeovers and creative activities with the people around her.  These interests help her build relationships and show her caring, social nature.  Alysia can demonstrate maturity, insight, and humor in some moments, while in others she can benefit from extra reassurance, structure, and support.  She thrives when she feels safe, included, and valued.  Alysia is interested in getting her driver's license and a part-time job.   She continues to learn strategies that strengthen her ability for thoughtful actions, and she responds well with clear expectations, consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement.  Alysia would do best in a structured, nurturing home with caregivers who can provide steady guidance, firm but loving boundaries, and opportunities for creative expression.  Most of all, Alysia wants to belong.   She is eager for connection and would benefit from a family committed to helping her grow, feel secure, and celebrate her many strengths.

Email Denise Lopez to learn more about Alysia

Xavier

A very special family is being sought for Xavier, an adorable boy who was born in the Summer of 2024.  Xavier is a special child in need of a family who is willing to soothe him, comfort him, and be educated to care for his needs.  This sweet boy will continue to receive services by a host of providers, and he will be followed and closely monitored by professionals to ensure he maintains his optimum health and nutrition.  Of equal importance, Xavier truly needs to be with a family where he is read to, cuddled, and allowed to blossom to the best of his abilities!  There are many unknowns for Xavier's future, however, it is known he will be better off in the loving arms of a family.  Caring for him will bring joy to a family's life and this deserving little guy will benefit greatly from being in an atmosphere where he can grow, learn, and be loved!

Email Denise Lopez to learn more about Xavier

Sa'Niyah

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

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Sa'Niyah

“Yolanda”

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

Email Holly Nesdale to learn more about Yolanda

"Alex"

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

Email Holly Nesdale to learn more about Alex 

"Andrew"

Meet Andrew who was born in 2010. He is described by those who know him as generous, sentimental, and funny! Andrew has a great sense of humor and a zest for life; he enjoys being around others and he often greets people with a bright, big smile. Andrew is easy to get along with and he can be very active, talkative, and kind. Andrew, also, is curious, empathetic, resilient, and he has an incredible memory! Andrew likes playing video games and listening to music; his creative side enjoys making things such as bracelets. Andrew attends school, daily, and he has been doing well academically. He participates in support services at school where he has many strong connections with peers and staff. He enjoys participating in fun activities and he appreciates the bit of freedom and independence he has in his program. Andrew would do best with a family who is able to provide him structure, clear boundaries, patience and understanding. Andrew is yearning to be part of a family, and he is making great strides to join a family he can call his own! Andrew is hoping for a family who will allow him room to grow and assist him in becoming an independent, young adult. Andrew has siblings with whom he would like to maintain a connection, and it will be important for a family to help him maintain those relationships that are meaningful to him.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Andrew

Mickelea

“Brian”

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

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about 'Brian'

"Sammy"

A foster family is being sought for Sammy, a sweet boy who was born in 2017. Sammy is often seen smiling, and he loves music and toys that shake and make noise! He is non-verbal, however, if he is uncomfortable, he's able to alert those around him. Sammy can sit up with assistance from his caretakers, and he enjoys playing on the floor with toys and watching television. Sammy attends school, including an extended school year program, where he receives additional supports to help him grow and develop and have fun with peers! Sammy is dependent on adults to meet his needs, but supports are available to assist, as well as training to learn about his specific needs. Sammy utilizes some adaptive equipment, and he will be followed closely by medical professionals to ensure he maintains his optimum health. Any family considering caring for Sammy will need to attend medical appointments on a regular basis, as well as engage with providers in the home. Sammy will require comprehensive care from loving adults and although he will continue to be dependent on others, he needs a family who will love him and be by his side to help him grow and thrive.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Sammy

“Johnny”

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

“Bobby”

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

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about 'Bobby'

"Brynn"

A family is needed for a special young lady… meet Brynn! Brynn was born in 2010, and she has lots of personality! Brynn loves to laugh and has a unique sense of humor. She has so many interests, including shopping and getting her hair and nails done. On the other hand, she also loves watching television and basketball. Brynn loves ice cream and spending time with friends, and she is great with animals! She would LOVE for someone to teach her Spanish and who would support her in the home so she can become fluent in the language. Someone who knows Brynn said she has the heart of a lion; she doesn't give up and her heart is open! She's learned to survive within her environment, and she is looking to settle into her own space. What Brynn needs most is an atmosphere where relationships are supportive and healthy. She's hoping for a family who will give her time to develop trust so she can continue to grow and succeed in her future. She would love to have a family who shows affection and love, and she is looking forward to spending one on one time with a caretaker as well as family time filled with laughter.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Brynn

"Fisher"

Meet Fisher, a cute, little boy born in 2015, who loves being in the outdoors. Fisher is an active, curious and kindhearted boy who thrives with structure and support.  He consistently lights up a room with his outgoing personality and vibrant spirit! Fisher possesses a remarkable passion for art and building things, often losing himself in creative projects that showcase his imaginative mind and skillful hands. Fisher truly thrives with one-to-one attention, blossoming when he receives focused interaction and encouragement. It's heartwarming to observe how he actively seeks out individuals he trusts to show him care and affection. This is a testament to his desire for connection and his strong resilience, especially given the challenges of his past. Fisher responds well to direct, compassionate communication that helps him express his feelings. He understandably experienced a bout of sadness, after leaving his last placement, but he has demonstrated remarkable resilience. He is navigating this with strength and adaptability, and the use of supports. Fisher is actively working on his goals, and he is committed to his own well-being and continued growth. Fisher's heart is as big as his goals for the future, but he needs a family to help him celebrate who he is and reach his goals as he grows, explores, and thrives. Please reach out if you would like to learn more about Fisher!

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Fisher

Joshanna

Joshanna was born in 2013, and she is in the 7th grade. She desires to find a family who will love and commit to her. Joshanna has experienced a lot of trauma in her young life and she would like the opportunity to build a relationship with a family to whom she can belong. Joshanna likes reading, playing on her tablet, doing her hair and makeup, and laughing with friends. She receives supports in school to assist with her success. Joshanna would do best with a family who can provide structure and regular routines and rituals throughout her day. She would benefit from a family who will be patient, committed and who will provide consistency. Joshanna would love to have an older or younger sibling in the home with whom she can spend time. She is insightful about her needs, and she is striving to be her best self! Joshanna is a beautiful, tween girl who needs a family in her life to help her grow and be successful.

Email Adam Liebowitz to learn more about Joshanna

Anastasia

Anastasia is a 10-year-old youth, who is very personable and enjoys learning new things. Some of Anastasia's strengths are that she is creative and intelligent; and she loves to read, draw, dance and sing. Anastasia, also, enjoys Poke-man. Anastasia describes herself as a pretty good student and she has benefitted from supports in her classroom. Anastasia made significant progress this past year, and she passed all her classes. Anastasia had been placed with her younger, biological brother, and while she expressed her love for the family, she has voiced that she would like a forever family of her own. Anastasia enjoys conversations with adults, and she appreciates being listened to, while discovering her identity and expressing her feelings. If you feel that your family could help Anastasia reach her full potential, please see the contact information, below.

Email Adam Liebowitz to learn more about Anastasia