Breanna
(age 16) 

Cecilia
(age 12)

 
Charlise
(age 13)

Christian
(age 14)

Damani
(age 14)

David
(age 16) 

Ghabil
(age 13)

 
Jay'Vion
(age 6)

Taina

Squealing with delight when she hears pop music, having books read to her and playing with toys which have music and lights are just a few of the activities 16 year old Taina enjoys. This precious girl is described as "a joy" by her caregivers in the medical group home where she lives, however, she is ready for discharge and needs a family!

Although legally blind and non-verbal, Taina will attempt to make eye contact in order to connect with whomever is speaking to her.  She will make sounds and utterances to make her needs known and once you get to know her, it becomes easy to understand the emotions she wants to express.  She loves to receive affectionate touch by the stroke of her head or the holding of her hand.  She is content being near windows and lights; and her smile is as bright and warm as the sun.

Taina was born with a chromosome disorder which has resulted in life-long medical, physical and developmental challenges.  She receives numerous supportive services and relies on a wheelchair for mobility.  She spends time each week in her stander, a swing and a scooter seat to help her build muscles and increase mobility. 

This beautiful young lady needs a family willing to learn about her challenges and work alongside her medical team to help her stretch her muscles, feed her through her G-Tube and assure all of her needs are met.  More importantly, however, she simply needs a family….people to welcome her home and be there to celebrate her physical and developmental progress, watch "Frozen" with her and read storybooks to her.   

Parenting Taina will no-doubt bring both challenges and joy; however, she is deserving of an environment only found outside the walls of a hospital or a group home setting.  She deserves to live with a loving and supportive family where she can experience a sense of belonging for her lifetime.

For information about Taina contact:  Adam Liebowitz 860-550-6410 or adam.liebowitz@ct.gov

Damani

As a very active 14 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:  Sone Phrommavanh 860-723-7255 or soneprasit.phrommavanh@ct.gov

Jay'Vion

This precious little man will turn six 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

Gene, Devan & Jayvon

Anyone who meets this set of sibling brothers is struck by their resiliency, politeness, and optimism for a positive future.  16 year old Gene is the oldest; and often finds 13 year old Devan and 10 year old Jayvon, competing for the attention of their adored big brother.  These basketball loving fans are young men in need; and whom deserve, a family where they can grow up together.

With a keen desire to play professional basketball, Gene takes both his education and athleticism seriously.  He is on the high school basketball team and maintains “straight A’s” in school.  Working out at the YMCA keeps him in shape and he is an adolescent with an amazing future ahead of him.  Gene is described as reserved and sweet.  He is soft spoken, often inquisitive, and has a good sense of humor. 

Middle-guy Devan is a responsible young man who likes to have a routine and complete chores.  He is a typical teen who LOVES video games; especially Fortnight.  Like his older brother, he has a great sense of humor, enjoys playing basketball and being active.  He has an amazingly mature stance for his age and well understands his current life circumstances and his wishes for a constructive future. 

The youngest of the group, Jayvon, is about to turn 10 years of age.  At times he can be silly and energetic but he does well in school and also loves to have a set routine.  As with any other little boy, he loves to play outside, watch movies, and of course play basketball like his brothers!

The boys will take their time when getting to know someone new and they are fiercely loyal to those whom they love.  They want to share their lives with parents who will walk by their sides as they grow up.  They are a ready-made family longing to belong within a community where they can concentrate on their bright futures! 

For information about these boys contact Denise Lopez: 860-550-6391 or denise.lopez@ct.gov

Wilfredo

Meet Wilfredo, an amazingly resilient young man of 15 years who is an insightful and curious person with a kind heart and a strong work ethic.  His technical mind leads him to a desire to attend a Technical School and become an IT Specialist in his adult life.

When describing a family, some things of interest to Wilfredo would be for him to be a part of a sibling set.  Having older and younger brothers would be great fun for him.  Wilfredo has a great sense of humor and would love for his family to share this trait with him.  He longs to feel safe in his community and does not wish to be placed in an inner-city environment.  This affirming and accepting young man is open to families of all ethnicities, sexual orientation or religious affiliation.  He does not want to be forced to have to go to church, but is respectful of this desire for others.  He is willing to live in any state, and of course would love a home where there is “a man cave!”

As when parenting any adolescent on the brink of young adulthood, Wilfredo needs a family who will provide consistency and structure while also allowing him the general freedom he requires to become a successful young man.  He needs fair and honest consequences, as well as appropriate adult role modeling, to help him overcome challenging behaviors or moments of frustration.  He is innovative and resourceful and has the ability to understand that rules and boundaries are in place to keep him safe. 

Maintaining contact with his biological sister is crucially important to Wilfredo and will need to be supported by his family.  He has lost connections with many of his other family members and he sometimes prefers solitude, rather than talking, to deal with his feelings.  Once he has received some space, he is able to talk and can glean insight into his emotions and feelings. 

Of utmost importance to Wilfredo is showing the world the amazing young adult he is truly capable of becoming. 

For information about Wilfredo contact:  Alexandria Ingleton   alexandria.ingleton@klingberg.com

Margie

This amazingly resilient and friendly young lady states her ideal family is “one who loves the Lord and cares about all people.”  16 year old Margie loves gospel music and attends church weekly as a devout Christian.  She has strong ties to her Church family, as well as some biological relatives, and maintaining these relationships after adoption will be vitally important for her.  She loves to be the center of attention and would thrive with older siblings who will provide her with love and affection. 

A teen with endless energy; who is sociable, talkative and engaging, are just a few ways to describe Margie.  Despite the emotional losses she has experienced, as well as the many significant medical challenges she currently endures, Margie’s resiliency shines through her personality. 

Developmentally, Margie presents at a nine year old’s level as she is diagnosed with multiple disabilities including Diplegic Cerebral Palsy.  She requires the use of a wheelchair, however, she can walk using a walker with supports and takes pride in being independent when making her bed, doing her laundry and practicing self-care.  While many of her medical issues are manageable, Margie still requires a caring and patient family willing to attend her frequent doctor follow-up visits.  She will only continue to thrive with a supportive family by her side to cheer her on and help her continue to grow her independence.  

When frustrated, Margie continues to need help learning ways to express her emotions in a healthy and safe manner.  She is content to be around people, has a love for stuffed animals and engaging in visual activities. 

Margie longs to share her infectious smile with a family able to provide her with the love and affection she so deserves.

For information about Margie contact: Stephanie Frascadore Stephanie.Frascadore@klingberg.com

Eddy

This 10 year old young man could potentially be a great architect someday!  Eddy loves to do puzzles; build creations out of Legos and folding paper airplanes.  As with most young boys, he loves to be outside riding his bike and being physically active.  He can be sociable; enjoying one to one time with others, or go off on his own and play independently.  He often wants to share with others and shows compassion, however due to his history of adverse life experiences, at times his behaviors get the best of him and they can pose a challenge to those with whom he resides. 

Because of some life circumstances which have had a negative impact on Eddy, we are seeking an adoptive family who has had some experience working with children who have endured trauma.  Eddy is a sweet and engaging child who struggles with managing all of the big emotions surrounding his young life, and he craves and deserves a secure and loving family where he can believe in his future.   

Caring for animals; especially dogs, is a true gift for Eddy.  He does very well with them; and both offers and accepts, the unconditional love an animal can provide.  This comfort was especially useful to him when he was deeply impacted by the death of his mother; and he continues to grieve her loss.

Eddy will enter the 4th grade soon where he will continue to receive special education supports.  He continually works on reducing his negative behaviors in school and has been able to ask to take some space, fix his mistakes and identify his emotions leading up to behaviors.  On-going clinical supports for both Eddy and his family will help blend the family unit.

This smart, affectionate and deserving little boy needs a family by his side to help him stabilize and grow.  He 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.

For information about Eddy contact:  Jane Pertillar jane.pertillar@ct.gov

Teagan

Watch a slideshow of Tegan

This very special nine year old little boy is in need of a family who will love him unconditionally while attending to his special needs.  A one or two parent family versed in the needs of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, will be rewarded by Teagan’s sweet smile and happy disposition.  Although he has some very specific and unique challenges, with the right family, he can thrive and blossom.

Described as a daytime “rabbit,” Teagan is an energetic little guy who has a hard time sitting still.  He likes to be active and can be impulsive, so holding his hands and keeping him close allow 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 him, and his caregivers, to have successful interaction.  Teagan understands what is being said to him and he enjoys watching TV and 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.  However, for the time being, Teagan’s inability to assess safety requires constant supervision and attention.  He responds well to consistency and nurturance and his behaviors are not an intentional means to disobey, rather, a consequence of his cognitive limitations. 

While receiving educational and clinical supports, Teagan will be transitioning to a therapeutic school where his education will be enriched and his social development enhanced. He tends to struggle with paying attention and understanding certain concepts, but he enjoys the interactions with his teachers and friends.  Teagan has special transportation accommodations to keep him safe while riding on the bus. 

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.  Although parenting him may present with some challenges, the rewards of seeing Teagan progress and thrive into the special young man he will become, are many. 

For information about Teagan contact Nickisha Newell: nickisha.newell@klingberg.com

Cecilia

This bright and beautiful 12 year old little girl has big plans for her future!  Cecilia; or Cece as she prefers to be called, aspires to become an attorney who will specialize in assisting women and children.  She specifically stresses her overarching goal is to help children in the foster care system, and assure each and every one of them grows up in a strong and loving family.

Due to some of the trauma she has faced in her short life; in tandem with being disappointed by the some of the adults in her life, at times Cece’s feelings “get the best of her” and she exhibits some challenging behaviors.  Despite these moments, she is always working hard to strengthen her emotional balance.  She utilizes reading and writing in her journal to relax her mind, and as she loves both of these activities, she is finding success.

Being able to recite the Declaration of Independence is a small example of Cece’s love of learning!  She is an extremely bright 7th grader and she longs for a family with whom she can share her passion for education.  She states she is not “into sports,” however, she likes to run and track and field and wants to pursue that interest.  She is not a picky eater, and although pickles are her FAVORITE food item; there is nothing sour about this precious little girl!

Unlike many young girls her age, Cece is not overly interested in material things and she rejoices in “just being a kid.”  Her requests for her future family are very basic in that she wants to feel safe and be loved; and she is open to a family of any composition or background.  She longs for her own family where she is the only child; or youngest by many years and any family who meets her will be instantly drawn to her compassionate and loving spirit.  Cece has some biological family members with whom she remains connected and these relationships will need to be sustained. 

This amazing and resilient young lady will bring so much love and joy to a family. 

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

Christian

Christian is a lovable and caring 14 year old boy who would like nothing more than to be part of a family.  Despite the significant trauma and tragedies he has experienced in his short life, he is still willing to open his heart to others.  He is eager to join a family who will love him unconditionally and one whom will accept a higher level of training to help him continue on his path to becoming a successful young man.

Christian is friendly and engages with adults and friends easily.  He is described as being helpful and he enjoys playing the piano, video games and being active outside.  He has a good sense of humor, enjoys sarcasm and likes to laugh. Christian is curious and enjoys “tinkering” with electronics, taking things apart to see how they work.  He enjoys building and fixing things. 

Due to events in his life, which have been beyond his control, Christian needs a family with dual parents and no other children; or significantly older siblings who could be positive role models for him.  At times, Christian struggles with understanding his past, which prevents him from having insight into how best to manage his negative behaviors.  Therapeutic supports will remain in place to help him and his family with a successful transition.  

With educational and clinical supports in place in school, Christian has now entered the 7th grade.  He attends an alternative educational setting where he is an average student.  He tends to struggle with completing homework and staying on task, but he works hard when he feels supported; and has also enjoyed attending a therapeutic after school & summer camp. 

Although Christian has faced many challenges, there is much hope for his future.  He needs a family who can walk beside him and help him maintain that hope through his lifetime journey. Working collaboratively with helping professionals will be crucial to a family’s success, and will entail much time on the part of caregivers.  Christian asks an adoptive family be found for him, and he yearns for the unconditional love only a family can provide.           

For information about Christian contact: Adam Liebowitz 860-550-6410 or  adam.liebowitz@ct.gov

Luis

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This shy 14 year old young man has an amazingly resilient personality and he is looking forward to sharing his sense of humor and love of adventure with a family.  He is a curious, creative, and resourceful adolescent who is described as polite and sociable.             

As with most young men his age, Luis enjoys playing sports, riding bicycles, playing video games, fishing, drawing and playing with Legos.  He especially enjoys building forts and playing on the adventure course in the woods.  He has quite the green thumb and loves to be outside working in the garden.  If he had his way, he would be out exploring nature all day long!

Because Luis has many strong biological family connections, which are crucially important to him, he needs a family who will respect and honor these relationships.  Due to experiences from his past, Luis is a cautious young man who is slow to allow himself to trust others.  A family will need to allow him the space he requires to feel comfortable and secure; and must assuredly need to be straightforward and honest with him. 

Being actively engaged with clinical supports has helped Luis make tremendous progress in understanding his life situation and increasing efforts to improve himself.  He is highly motivated to continue on his path of better controlling his impulses, following directions and creating safe and meaningful relationships. Although at times he may have a verbal outburst of frustration or anger, he has been diligently trying to learn ways to process a conflict, or seek a positive resolution, rather than shutting down or overacting.

Academics are an occasional struggle for Luis, but supports within his school and from his family will help him achieve his goals.  When focused, he is a hard worker who is well organized and completes his work.

This young man wants to belong to a family through adoption.  He is open to any parent who will support him and make him feel safe in the knowledge they are committed to him unconditionally.  He has much to offer a family in return!

For information about Luis contact:  Alexandria Ingleton alexandria.ingleton@klingberg.com

Breanna

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This resilient young lady is looking for a family to help her navigate the adolescent world into adulthood.  Breanna is 16 years of age and has faced many significant losses in her life.  She could easily surrender to her past; however she continues to look forward and work toward finding a permanent family who will not give up on her. 

Because of the many rejections she has faced by former caretakers, Breanna struggles with her feelings of frustration and rejection and yet she continues to works hard learning ways to face her complex trauma issues.  Breanna is able to express her long term goals, however, she needs a patient and understating family who will guide her along the way.  She has great potential to flourish if her family is able to understand the grief below the surface and stick by her side as she achieves her goals. 

As part of her clinical help, Breanna is working on her ability to trust and form healthy relationships.  To aide her in these endeavors, she has begun to volunteer at a local food pantry. Her kind heart has begun to shine through with this experience and she enjoys the feeling of “giving” to others.  She has also joined a “girls group” which helps her with socialization and building friendships. 

Recently Breanna has expressed an interest in boxing.  She is an athletic girl who enjoys basketball, dance, swimming and kick boxing.  Standing at six feet, two inches, she has a height advantage in most sports.  She is completing her freshman year of high school where she received special education supports.  She struggles with some of her classes but she is working hard and was recently awarded a “student of the month” certificate.

Parenting Breanna will bring both challenges and joy.  She has great potential if given the opportunity to feel accepted and loved.  Breanna and her family will continue to receive supports in and out of the home to help make her transition into a family successful and Breanna is clear in her desire to be adopted by a family who will stick by her side through both the good and challenging times. 

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

Missy

For information about Missy contact:  Alexandria Ingleton alexandria.ingleton@klingberg.com
           

"Ghabil"

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Taking long walks, running, playing with toys which have sound or music and staying physically active are some of the things 13 year old Christopher; or Ghabil as he is known, would like to share with a family. Patient parents with a willingness to learn about autism will be the best match for him.

Going out in the community to visit places such as the park or shopping malls; as well as going to the movies, are other activities Ghabil enjoys. His specialized needs require 100% supervision at all times.  His family will learn ways to help him with transition to reduce his anxiety while also educating them in regard to how to respond to possible behavioral outbursts. With assistance, Ghabil has been learning how to accomplish daily self-care skills such as washing his hands and eating independently.

Careful consideration needs to be made when sharing new experiences with Ghabil.  Due to a significant sensory sensitivity, at times it may be difficult to predict how he will react to his surroundings. New or unknown opportunities may find him curious to explore, or they could increase his anxiety, rendering him likely to become stressed and engage in negative behaviors. Proactive techniques such as a structured daily schedule with built-in breaks, as well as positive reinforcement when he completes an activity, allow Ghabil to be successful and feel a sense of accomplishment. 

Parenting Ghabil will bring both challenges and joys and ongoing contact with his biological grandmother will bring him happiness.  His family will receive extra training and in-home supports to make family life successful, but having innate characteristics such as being calm, patient and organized will be key to a successful match for him. 

For information about Ghabil contact:  William Larson William.larson@klingberg.com

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

Charlise

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Meet 13 year old Charlise, a beautiful young lady who is seeking a very specific family to claim as her own.  While most girls of this age have only had to worry about things such as school, friends and clothing, Charlise has experienced much loss and trauma in her life and she needs a patient and loving family to help her get back to “typical” childhood experiences. 

Having a sister close in age to her and a family of non-Caucasian decent is extremely important to Charlise.  Additionally she would love to have a large home and a dog.  When discussing qualities a family should have in order to effectively parent her, a former caregiver recommends a great sense of humor!   

Charlise presents as much older than her years and she has a strong minded personality.  She uses negative verbalizations as a defense mechanism when she feels challenged and she would benefit residing in a family with experienced parents who are willing to see past her gruff exterior.  Therapeutic supports and enhanced training will be a part of the transition plan for Charlise and her family. 

Academically Charlise is bright and intelligent.  She is creative and has excellent writing skills; but tends to not like math.  She struggles with social skills and her behaviors will interfere with her ability to learn however, supports are in place to aid her in school. 

Charlise is a typical child who enjoys bike riding, reading and playing video games.  She will bring both challenges and joy to parenting and with patience and perseverance she will be a loving addition to the right family. 

For information about Charlise: Stephanie Frascadore: stephanie.frascadore@klingberg.com

David

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Being a “country boy” at heart, 16 year old David loves to listen to country music; especially any song by Blake Shelton!  Other favorites he equally loves to hear are ‘Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star’ and ‘Old McDonald had a Farm.’  Music relaxes David and his happy disposition is evident when he is most often found smiling and laughing with people around him.             

After being born premature and experiencing a lack of oxygen to his brain, David has some significant medical challenges for which he receives numerous supportive services.  An ideal family for David will have two organized parents with a flexible schedule to accommodate his in-home providers. 

He thoroughly enjoys music and water therapy and although he is non-verbal, he is able to make some sounds to make his needs known.  Specialized care for David includes helping him make improvements everyday in his overall functioning.  He uses a modified spoon and bowl to become more independent in his feeding and, with supervision, he is able to learn adaptive ways to be successful. 

A single story home would be a good fit for David as using the stairs continues to be a struggle for him due to some visual limitations.  Once he is comfortable in his surroundings he can move with ease. 

David has a sweet and inquisitive disposition and he easily forms loving relationships with his caregivers. He loves to hold hands and take walks and some of his favorite school field trips include going to the zoo, bowling or spending the day at the beach. Visiting with his grandmother is a special time for David and he beams with happiness when he sees her or hears her voice.  His family will need to continue to support this relationship. 

Although his group home caregivers will be sad to see this special young man leave, David is ready to join a family!

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