Connecticut Heart Gallery
To learn about any of these children call 1-888-KID-HERO
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AiyannaCONNECTICUT FAMILIES ONLY Aiyanna 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. Aiyanna greets each day with an infectious enthusiasm, ready to embrace whatever comes her way. She longs to have a family to call her own, and with whom to share her life. With a friendly and adventurous spirit, she 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. Professional support is often essential for overcoming adversity, especially in the context of trauma, and she has a wonderful team working with her.
Aiyanna enjoys singing, dancing, art projects, eating, cooking, and shopping. Aiyanna approaches learning with determination and an eagerness to do well in school. When her feelings and needs are met, she has an easier time attending to her classwork.
Although well loved by her foster mom, Aiyanna is aware this is not where she will grow up and she hopes to find a family who will raise her, and a home where she can build lasting friendships. The uncertainty of her past has left her seeking stability, but she shows remarkable courage, opening her heart to new experiences and people.
For information about Aiyanna, contact Nadine McDonald: nadine.mcdonald@klingberg.com |
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 adoptive family will likely need ongoing support to ensure Jay'vion 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. For information about Jay’Vion, contact: Sandra Tapia-Arcos at: sandra.tapia-arcos@ct.gov |
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"Adam"Due to confidentiality, "Adam" is not this young man's true name; however, what stands true is how special he is and his hope to find a family who will unconditionally provide him with a fresh start in his young life. Adam was born in 2010, and he has a funny and sociable personality. He, also, has a kind and caring heart and is extremely loyal and forgiving. Adam works very hard to be the best version of himself, both in the home and at school, and he does well with support and encouragement. He is working hard on his interactions and is looking forward to meeting new people and forming healthy friendships. Adam would benefit from a positive adult who will demonstrate effort and patience, and who will recognize and remind him of his many strengths. Once he feels secure, Adam's bright and wonderful personality shines through.
In school, Adam receives support to help increase his ability to learn. He developed an interest in art which has grown into a great talent. He, also, has learned ways to express his emotions through his art. Adam never bores of building with Legos, drawing, playing video games, and watching television. He enjoys anything to do with nature, including bugs, rocks, plants, and animals, and he has played on recreational football and wrestling teams; he enjoys being active.
A positive, parental role model would be ideal to help provide guidance as Adam embarks on a journey toward becoming a successful adolescent. Adam does well with other children around his age or older and he enjoys dogs. If you feel that your family would like to help Adam reach his full potential, please see the contact information, below.
For information about "Adam," contact Nadine McDonald: nadine.mcdonald@klingberg.com |
"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 is of Caucasian descent and a smile that will warm your heart! He is ready to join a family 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. Brian is helpful in his placement, and he does well with visual reminders and positive reinforcement. As a high school student, Brian is working very hard at meeting all his educational goals. He receives additional support to help him complete his work, and this young man has the resilience to work hard on his self-help skills and to follow 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. 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 with whom Brian can spend time; however, they cannot care for him, full time. Their involvement in his life is positive and they give Brian 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. 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 Sandra Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov |
"Drew"A truly special family is being sought for a teenager named "Drew," born in 2008. Due to confidentiality, 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 is fondly referred to as a "big teddy bear," as he has a sweet, innocent disposition. 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. He is kind and thoughtful and loves to think about presents and making Christmas lists for others. Drew's school has been successful in meeting his educational needs, and he is adored by his teachers and school staff. Solid communication between Drew's school and home provides the structure and consistency he needs for ultimate success. Drew has a special relationship with some relatives who, although he cannot live with them, love him very much and would like to remain a part of his life. A family willing to accept him into their lives will benefit from these extended family relationships. Drew may do best in a family where he is the youngest child. Drew's most immediate need, right now, is stability with a patient family! 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 |
Jonah
This adorable, young guy is of Caucasian descent with 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 that 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 will be followed closely by many professionals to ensure he maintains his optimum health and any family considering the care of him will need to attend appointments on a regular basis, as well as engage with service providers in the home. 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.
For information about Jonah, contact Sandra Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov |
Isabella
Sweet and giggly Isabella deserves to be part of a family where she is loved and cherished. Isabella was born in 2012, and she is school aged. Isabella, or Bella as she likes to be called, has some needs which will stay with her for life. However, this inquisitive and determined little girl always takes pleasure in displaying her abilities.
Having a very loving and social disposition, Bella blows kisses, claps, and laughs when she expresses affection and is excited. She loves to be hugged, and she will hug you back and snuggle while you chat about your day. She is working hard and increasing her language skills, however, she can also communicate through her iPad and let her needs be known.
Isabella uses adaptive equipment to assist with her mobility. 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 herself to get where she needs to go. Structure and routine are important for her success, and she shows up to the classroom prepared and ready to work. Her positive energy can be felt by her teachers and her friends.
Given Bella's needs, she will be followed closely by professionals, both in and out of the home environment, to ensure she maintains her optimum health. She longs to give hugs, smile, and love to a family who can keep her smiling and meet her needs, now, and in the future.
If you are interested in learning more about Bella, please contact Holly Nesdale: holly.nesdale@ct.gov |
Teagan
This very special boy, born in 2009, needs a family who will love him, unconditionally, while attending to his special needs. A family willing to learn about and meet his needs will be rewarded by Teagan’s sweet smile and happy disposition. With the right family, he can thrive and blossom. Teagan is energetic, and he likes to be active, so holding his hands and keeping him close allows him to engage with the world around him in a safe manner. Even though he is non-verbal, Teagan can communicate with sign language, and he can make his needs known by using some sound vocalizations. Engaging in face-to-face communication enables him and his caregivers to have successful interactions. Teagan understands information that is spoken to him, and he enjoys watching TV, smiling, and moving to the sound of music. In time, Teagan may have the opportunity to engage in activities, such as: riding a bike, playing with age-appropriate toys, and independently playing outside. He responds well to attention, supervision, consistency, and nurturance. Teagan enjoys the interactions with his teachers and friends, and he does well with additional, school supports. Therapeutic connections will remain in place to help Teagan and his family with a successful transition; and working collaboratively with helping professionals will be crucial to a family’s success. If you're willing to embark on this opportunity to parent Teagan, the rewards of seeing Teagan progress and thrive into the special young man he will become, are many.
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Mahki
Mahki is a teenage boy, born in 2008, who is yearning to join a family in Connecticut with whom he can share his experience as an adolescent. Mahki is a friendly, young man who is respectful and enjoys engaging with others. Due to exposure to significant, traumatic events in his past, and the loss of many adults, a family will need to be patient and supportive while Mahki continues to heal from past experiences and works on forming meaningful, supportive relationships that help rebuild trust. Mahki is a resilient youth who enjoys the typical adventures of any teenager. He enjoys caring for Hermit crabs and other similar creatures. He is creative, and he uses his analytical and creative abilities to plan and build things. Additionally, he enjoys riding his scooter, playing video games, and reading. Mahki is a smart, handsome, and deserving, young man who needs a family in his life to help him grow, be successful, and discover his potential and resilience. He eagerly awaits the opportunity to build a relationship with a family with whom he can develop a sense of security and belonging, and he wants more than anything to belong to a home and a family that is willing to help him reach his dream.
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"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 of Caucasian/Hispanic descent. Johnny was born in 2006, and he 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, and he is making progress towards his learning goals. He is a high functioning, young man who receives additional supports to help him be successful. Specialized care for Johnny includes helping him make improvements every day in his overall functioning and daily living activities. 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.
If you are interested in learning more about "Johnny," please contact Sandra Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov |
"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 able to meet his needs. This adorable boy is African American with dark hair and a smile that will melt your heart. Bobby loves watching television, including Paw Patrol and other Disney cartoons. Like most children, soft things such as blankets or socks bring comfort to Bobby. He also loves being read to and choosing the books himself!
Bobby is non-verbal and will need ongoing care which will continue into adulthood. A family who can meet his needs, now, and in the future will benefit from the assistance of nursing supports, as well as training to learn about his specific needs. Bobby loves school where he receives additional services. He really enjoys going on field trips with his peers! He also loves playing in the ball pit and has fun scooting around independently and playing with toys! Bobby will be followed closely by many professionals to ensure he maintains his optimum health and any family considering the care of him will need to attend appointments on a regular basis, as well as engage with service providers in the home. Bobby will require comprehensive care from loving adults for his lifetime 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.
If you are interested in learning more about "Bobby," please contact Sandra Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov |
David
Throughout his early years, David experienced a series of adversities. Despite those hurdles, David has shown remarkable resilience. With the right support, he is learning to rebuild trust, develop healthy coping skills, and explore new opportunities for growth and healing. 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.
For information about "David," contact Nadine McDonald: nadine.mcdonald@klingberg.com
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Joshanna
Joshanna was born in 2013, and she is in middle school. She would love 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. Joshanna would do best with a family who can provide structure and regular routines and rituals throughout her day. Joshanna would love to have an older or younger sibling in the home that she can spend time with. Joshanna receives support services in school, and she continues to work on striving to be her best self! Joshanna is a beautiful, tween girl who is seeking a family who will be patient, committed, and provide consistency to help her grow and be successful. If interested in learning more about Joshanna, please contact Adam Liebowitz: adam.liebowitz@ct.gov
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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 is able to take a helping role with adults! She eagerly awaits the opportunity to build a relationship with a family with whom she can develop a sense of security and belonging. Sa'Niyah likes reading, playing games and she loves pretty journals and pencils. She also loves dancing, especially ballet and gymnastics, as well as arts and crafts and animals. She utilizes reading and writing in her journal to relax her mind, she loves stress toys including poppets and squishy toys are her favorite! With encouragement, Sa'Niyah may be willing to try new things and can be adventurous and will take appropriate risks. She flourishes and does well with positive praise and reinforcement. Sa'Niyah would do best with a family who can provide structure and regular routines and rituals throughout her day which will act as anchors to make her feel more secure and stable in her world. A family who will be patient, committed and provide consistency and support will benefit Sa'Niya, 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. She needs to be reassured that adults can be safe, and she can rely on them. Sa'Niyah is an energetic, adorable, and deserving girl who needs a family in her life to help her grow and be successful. She can be kind and helpful; she enjoys being a leader. She is looking for a family where she can have the space and attention she needs to adjust and continue to make progress towards her goals. For information about Sa'Niyah, contact Sandra Carroll: sandra.carroll@ct.gov
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Nova
A very special and loving family is being sought for Nova. Nova is a sweet, little girl who was born in 2022. She needs a family who will love her and can meet all her needs. Nova is of Black and Caucasian descent. She has dark hair and is often wearing a bow to match every outfit. Nova is non-verbal, but she responds with a smile and makes sounds when spoken to. Her smile is contagious and lights up a room. Nova loves dogs and has been observed following the current pet in her foster home with her eyes. Nova likes listening to music and being exposed to visually stimulating toys. She loves dolls and has been observed giving her doll kisses. She, also, enjoys the outdoors with the assistance of adaptive equipment. Given Nova's needs, she is dependent on her caretakers to complete daily routines, such as: bathing, dressing, and nutrition. Nova currently receives services in her home that provide her family with assistance. Nova does not attend day care. She is followed closely by several providers to ensure she maintains optimum health. The family considering the care of her will need to attend appointments on a regular basis and training to learn more about her specific needs and engage with service providers in the home. Nova needs comprehensive care from loving adults as her caretakers, which will continue into adulthood. This little girl is in need and is deserving of a forever home that will love and care for her, unconditionally. For information about Nova, contact Bryan Lerch: bryan.lerch@ct.gov
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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. I try my best to be helpful to everyone around me, and I, also, do well with routine, prompts and reminders around basic hygiene, 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 that 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. For information about Carlos, contact Bryan Lerch: bryan.lerch@ct.gov |
"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 is bright and she has a vivid imagination. She has excelled in school with the extra support she receives, and she gets daily reports of 90-100%. Yolanda is noted to be a model student in the classroom. Yolanda is looking for a special family that can be patient, structured and provide consistency for her. Yolanda enjoys the attention from her current foster family, but she is aware this is not a forever home for her. Yolanda longs to be part of a family where she can rely on adults and feel safe and connected. Yolanda has a younger sister and grandmother with whom she enjoys having contact and would want to continue these relationships moving forward.
If you are interested in learning more about Yolanda, please contact Holly Nesdale: holly.nesdale@ct.gov |
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 seeks reassurance from his caregivers, and he is diligently working on changing his methods to understand healthier things, such as a parent doing homework with him, showing up at his soccer games, taking an interest in what he likes, and reading to him. Anthony deserves consistency in his life to gain a better understanding regarding the love and security a family can provide. 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 is willing to consider moving out of state and would be happy with either a sibling or being an only child. Anthony is a very smart, engaging, and vibrant young man who aspires to become a police officer so he "could help kids just like him." He currently participates in a Police Explorers program, and he is active in soccer, and karate. Despite Anthony's difficult past, he remains positive, hopeful, and excited to find a family where he can grow up, nurtured, and loved, for his lifetime. If you are interested in learning more about Anthony, please contact Adam Liebowitz: adam.liebowitz@ct.gov
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"Avery"Meet Avery! Avery was born in 2018, and this beautiful, school-age girl has a sweet and bubbly personality! Avery isn't her real name for confidentiality reasons. Avery loves to play outside, has a good sense of humor and is lovable to those closest to her. She likes shopping, doing art projects and drawing, as well as doing puzzles! Due to her past trauma, Avery is working with supportive services to heal from her past experiences. Avery has demonstrated insight into her current situation, and she is learning new skills to help her be successful at reaching her goals. A family will likely need ongoing, support to allow Avery to grow and thrive. Avery receives support services at school where she is described as consistent and agreeable! Avery loves to go to school, and she is noted to be a model student in the classroom. She is bright and has a vivid imagination! Avery needs a special family, located in Connecticut, who can be patient, structured and provide consistency. Avery has two, younger siblings and her previous foster parents with whom she wants to continue a relationship, moving forward.
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Jadiely
Jadi is outgoing, crafty, funny, optimistic, and an insightful, young girl born in 2014. Participating in group activities and playing sports with her peers is something she always looks forward to. Her creativity might make her a great actress one day! Jadi loves dolls and Legos and playing with them. She has a creative imagination, and it shines through in her artwork. In January 2024, Jadi received an award for being a model peer student. Staff at Jadi's school have shared that Jadi is an enthusiastic child with a lot of potential. She enjoys playing with others and has shared that the best part of her day is recess. Jadi works closely with supports to make sure all her needs are met. She is very well versed on her needs, and she can take them in stride. Due to circumstances beyond her control, Jadi was exposed to a lot of turmoil in her young life. Jadi craves a permanent family and stability. A family who loves the change of seasons and all the holidays (especially Halloween!) that she could share or take part in, would be a wonderful match for Jadi. While Jadi cannot live with her older brother, she is very connected to him and looks forward to spending some time with him and his adoptive family. Jadi is ready to join a family where she can grow up and flourish into adulthood. There is so much for Jadi, and her future family, to look forward to as she grows and matures. With supports and positive role models to guide her, Jadi's potential is endless.
For information about Jadi, contact: Denise Lopez denise.lopez@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 |
Eddy 
