Previous Amazing Pictures

Spencer and Dakota are a special pair of siblings who will double your home's happiness with their sweet smiles and funny ways. They remain very close to each other, even in foster care, and want nothing more than to be adopted together.

Spencer was born a minute "older" and she likes to remind Dakota that he's her little brother. Both children are doing well in school and both excel in Math. Dakota wants to become a graphic designer and Spencer wants a career in computers.

The pair have enough creative energy to do whatever they want as long as they grow up in a home together.

Spencer and Dakota are featured in the Heart Gallery of Jacksonville.

Day 26

Joey
Photo Credit: Amy Pezzicara

Joey lives and breathes baseball, and likes to watch the game just as much as he loves to play. Baseball aside, Joey is an avid reader (preferably science fiction), and he (truly!) enjoys working in the yard. He has many great ideas for starting his own lawn company, though at the end of the day he thinks it would be even better to play in the Major Leagues. Joey has a big heart, and always strives to do his best for the people he cares about. He'd like to be part of an outgoing and loving family, and baseball fans would be a plus! Joey will excel in an active two-parent home with some therapeutic experience, as the youngest or only child.

Joey is featured in the Children's Board Heart Gallery of Tampa Bay.

Lavarion
Photo Credit: Andrea Graeves

Like a tornado, this feisty and fierce child will keep you on the go. Moving from place to place, caught in a whirl, Lavarion's young life has sometimes been rotated, spun around, and out of control. Despite his distrust of his environment, Lavarion still longs for a forever family to read books with, to pick up a game of basketball with and to create a picture-perfect day. He hopes his family will also weather all the storms. Lavarion dreams of belonging to a family that will love and support him.

Lavarion is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

Day 25

Jonathan and Sheaundra
Photo Credit: Tammy Kodsi

Seventeen-year-old Jonathan is of Haitian descent. Johnathan is a friendly, charming, and outgoing young man. He enjoys spending time with his sister, Sheaundra. Johnathan likes playing video games, like many teenage young men. Like all children, he needs to know that he is a part of a family. Johnathan does receive tutoring in school and works especially hard to improve his grades. Johnathan is a caring and loving child. Johnathan needs parents who are affectionate, caring, responsive, and loving towards him. He needs parents that are able to get involved and assist him with his academic goals and help him to be a success in life.

Fifteen-year-old Sheaundra is of Haitian descent. She enjoys attending school dances and hanging out with her friends. Sheaundra is very active and enjoys playing with smaller children. Sheaundra has a close relationship with her brother, Johnathan. Sheaundra has difficulty academically and she receives tutoring when needed. Sheaundra is a lovely teenager who is struggling with disappointments in her past and is in the process of rebuilding trust with the world around her. Sheaundra is very engaging and outspoken. She is compassionate and loving. Sheaundra is in need of a loving family that will accept her and her brother as part of the family. Sheaundra has her own mind and strong personality and needs parents who will appreciate and foster that strength, while making her feel that she is as special as she really is.

Johnathan and Sheaundra are featured in the Heart Gallery of Broward.

Tikeria
Photo Credit: Lori Griffith

Like Kimora Lee Simmons, Tikeria dreams of owning her own fashion empire, earning millions from her very own fashion line. When not daydreaming of her future, Tikeria enjoys watching the Jamie Fox show, playing Mancala or drawing. Tikeria would thrive in a structured, loving home that will encourage and support her as she receives therapies to work through the many losses in her life. A family that can be patient while Tikeria learns to love herself again is preferred.

Tikiera is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

Day 24

Charlie and Malachi
Photo Credit: Lara Cerri
Children's Board Heart
Gallery of Tampa Bay

Charlie is an especially personable and engaging kid. He flourishes in social situations, and truly enjoys making new friends. People are naturally drawn to his great sense of humor, and his wonderful personality makes him popular with adults and peers alike. An exceptionally intelligent young man, Charlie's favorite subjects in school are math and writing, and this year he's working on straight A's. His ultimate goal is to one day become President of the United States, a job he seems well-suited for. But for now, Charlie is happy to play soccer and baseball, and to hang out with his older brother, whom he greatly admires.

Malachi is a natural born leader, and a wonderfully protective older brother. His sweet and magnanimous personality is magnetic, and he loves to help out in any way he can. Malachi is a talented athlete, and like his younger brother he enjoys playing soccer and basketball. He's got a great mind for math, and puts a lot of effort into his schoolwork. When Malachi grows up he'd like to join the Marines, where his leadership skills would thrive. His resilience in life is admirable, as is the care he shows towards Charlie, and Malachi has the makings of a great young man.

Both boys would flourish in a warm and nurturing home, where they could receive the love and encouragement they need to be and do the best they can.

Charlie and Malachi are featured in the Children's Board Heart Gallery of Tampa Bay.

Christianna
Photo Credit: Jamie Halstead

Christianna is a pleasant girl who loves ice cream and having fun with others. She enjoys drawing and writing stories or poetry, but she also has a sporty side. Christianna likes cheerleading and being active.

She's doing well in school and plans to attend college one day. Her ideal forever family has a mom and dad, but she would be happy with a single parent as well. Christianna is willing to wait for the right family to make all her dreams come true.

Christianna is featured in the Heart Gallery of Jacksonville.

Day 23

Angelia
Photo Credit: Jesse Miller
Photography - Children's
Board Heart Gallery
of Tampa Bay

Outgoing and talkative, Angelia is an actress in the making. She has a wonderful personality, with a generous heart and a contagious laugh. She likes to swim, go to the beach, and be around as many friends as possible. Angelia loves people of all ages, and her thoughtful and nurturing spirit fuels her desire to help others as often as she can. As an aspiring entertainer, she hopes one day to travel to New York City or to Hollywood, and to make it big like Beyonce Knowles. Angelia is brimming with talent and potential; all she needs is encouragement and love. She will flourish in a nurturing home with a strong maternal influence.

Angelia is featured in the Children's Board Heart Gallery of Tampa Bay.

Lamont
Photo Credit: David Cone
Ave One Photography

Lamont is fifteen years old. He enjoys soccer, rollerblading, video games, and lacrosse. His favorite foods include broccoli, asparagus, and mangoes. He also enjoys drawing and listening to music.

Lamont is featured in the Heart Gallery of North Florida.

Day 22

Shedna
Photo Credit: Andrea Graeves

Shedna enjoys talking and expressing herself. She loves to sing and dance and has stated that she wants to be a rock star someday. Shedna is also a very gifted writer and has written a few songs of her own. She likes to please other and will blossom in a family open to adding more children. Shedna would do well with parents who show her unconditional love and affection. It is important for Shedna that one parent be a positive female role model, and she would like to keep in contact with her older brother.

Shedna is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

Gregory
Photo Credit: JAM Studios

"Nature Lover"

Favorite Food: Pizza, but not with spinach, olives or Jalapeno peppers.

Pet of Choice: Cat.

Favorite Things: Gregory likes to volunteer at the YMCA and with the Ecology Club. He also enjoys fishing and is a self-described nature lover. Aside from playing soccer and volleyball, Gregory has a passion for art--especially drawing--reading, listening to music and cooking.

Gregory's Perfect Day: Spending the day at the beach with close friends and family.

Favorite Music Group: The Black Eyed Peas.

About Gregory: "Intelligent, peaceful, respectful and nature loving," are the words Gregory uses to describe himself. He is an honest, accepting and joyful friend. Gregory is a caring, friendly and outgoing person who can carry on a conversation with anyone.

Career Choice: Marine Biologist

Gregory is featured in the Heart Gallery of Pinellas and Pasco.

Day 21

Angel
Photo Credit: Demetrious Branca

Angel is fifteen, in the color guard at school, and just recently got braces. She enjoys to read, facebook, and to socialize with her friends. She is in the 10th grade and her favorite food is hot wings. Angel's favorite color is blue, and she dreams of being a lawyer and to be in the Marine Corp.

Angel is featured in the Heart Gallery of North Florida.

Tyesha
Photo Credit: Art Pollack

Sixteen-year-old Tyesha has a smile that will light up any room. Tyesha can be friendly and sociable with adults and her peers but, at times, needs assistance with appropriately expressing her emotions. She enjoys drawing, coloring, and playing on the computer. Tyesha has some special education needs. She is eager to enhance her reading skills, and enjoys learning about her environment. Tyesha responds well to positive attention and reinforcement. Tyesha needs a lot of care and supervision, and will continue to need a family's support after she is an adult.

Tyesha is featured in the Heart Gallery of Broward.

Day 20

Antoine
Photo Credit: Ron Jackson

Antoine is a wonderful boy who loves to clap and hum to music! He loves music and musical toys - you can hardly get his keyboard out of his hands! He also enjoys eating French fries. Antoine likes to give and receive attention. He'll sit on your lap for hours and hold your hand! Antoine conveys his emotions and thoughts through his actions.

Antoine is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

Cassandra
Photo Credit: Juan Dale Brown
Scripps Treasure Coast
Newspapers

Cassandra, 17, has many great characteristics. However, the one that stands out the most is her angelic simplicity. She has the ability to bring out the wonder of life, and why it is worth living, in all those fortunate enough to meet her.

From her flowing movements and her smile to her obvious love for her brother and others closest to her, Cassandra is able to mesmerize the rest of the world in the wonder of her ability to make progressive strides in her life. These attributes will only assist her in overcoming the challenges she faces in the future.

Cassandra will thrive with a loving family with lots of patience. She will require a long transition into a home that is able to care for her special needs and accept her older brother, allowing their relationship to blossom even more.

Cassandra is featured in the Heart Gallery of Okeechobee & the Treasure Coast.

Day 19

Jasmine
Photo Credit: Frank Avilla
Children's Home Society of
Florida, Treasure Coast

Howdy folks! We've got us here a good old-fashioned country girl.

Jasmine, 13, with her dark blonde hair and hazel eyes, possesses sugary sweet manners and is not afraid at all to use them. Soft-spoken and somewhat shy, she loves to play with animals, especially horses, cats and dogs. Her favorite music? Country, of course.

Staying true to her roots, she enjoys barbeque of all kinds, particularly chicken and ribs. But as with most children, she likes her pizza, too. She also has fun playing video games and making friends. Jasmine says her favorite subjects in school are match and reading. One day, she hopes to become a veterinary assistant due to her love of animals.

Jasmine is hoping to find for a Forever Family where she will be the only child. She hopes the family will embrace her country spirit and like to travel.

Jasmine is featured in the Heart Gallery of Okeechobee & the Treasure Coast.

Kristian
Photo Credit: Andrea Graeves

Kristian is funny, likable, and bright; he would flourish in a family that supports his educational needs. He desires a loving family ready to provide him with a structured and supportive environment. He loves baseball, football and video games. He also enjoys watching movies and listening to and singing along with music. Kristian would like to maintain contact with his older sister, as they are very close.

Kristian is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

Day 18

Coral
Photo Credit: Double Exposure

Coral is very social and talkative! Her personality shines when she tells stories (which she loves to do), and she's quite animated when she speaks. She also enjoys roller skating and riding her bike. Coral does well in her classes at school, and she can be very playful and energetic. Coral loves lots of one-on-one attention from adults. Coral's ideal forever family will be patient, loving, structured and devote lots of time and attention to her!

Coral is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

Antwon
Photo Credit: Deborah Silver
Scripps Treasure
Coast Newspapers

Antwon, 15, gives new meaning to the word "LOVE". Antwon is a handsome and friendly young man. He has been described by many who know him well as full of energy and with a good sense of humor. He likes to listen to music and loves to be outdoors. Antwon really enjoys going to school, as it is what seems to make him the happiest.

The family that will benefit Antwon most greatly will be one that is loving, patient and structured while offering him the one-on-one care and support he needs. An adoptive parent once said that some children are put on this earth for just one purpose: to give and receive love . . . Antwon is one of these special children.

Antwon is featured in the Heart Gallery of Okeechobee & the Treasure Coast.

Day 17

Kenneth
Photo Credit: Teri Kovacs

Kenneth loves to build things and is intrigued by video games, computer games and figuring out how things work. One of his favorite hobbies is Origami, the Japanese art of folding paper. Kenneth can create birds, planes and geometric shapes in minutes! He enjoys school, and his favorite subjects are math and science. While Kenneth can occupy himself for hours with Legos, he also enjoys playing basketball, soccer or skateboarding with friends. Kenneth identifies himself as Jewish and enjoys learning about his religion.

Kenneth is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

Morgan and Talih
Photo Credit: Agnes Lopez

Morgan is the older of two siblings. Along with her brother Talih, they have a love of sports and doing things together. Morgan dreams of playing in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). She is easy going and funny, with a special place in her heart for younger brother Talih.

Talih is a bright, caring young man who loves to eat and stay active. He's good in school and plays football and other sports with his close friends. Brother and sister also share a love for cool shoes and both agree, "you just can't have too many!"

The children are eager to be together in an active family with a variety of interests they can enjoy. They are ready to find a wonderful two-parent home who will nurture their spirit and talents for many years to come.

Morgan and Talih are featured in the Heart Gallery of Jacksonville.

Day 16

Shelby
Photo Credit: Ken Marlewski
Children's Board
Heart Gallery of Tampa Bay

Shelby's bright personality really lights up a room. She's an intelligent and personable young woman who loves to socialize and meet new people. Her good grades in school show how hard she works and how much she enjoys learning, especially in her math courses. In her time down, Shelby's either playing soccer, swimming or riding her bike. Given her compassionate nature, Shelby aspires to become a veterinarian when she grows up, and she adores being around young children.

She's excited about being part of an active family that enjoys the outdoors, and she would thrive in a loving and experienced two-parent home as an only child or as a big sister.

Shelby is featured in the Children's Board Heart Gallery of Tampa Bay.

Walter
Photo Credit: Pocahontis
with Reddaisy Photography

An adoptive parent once said that some children are put on this earth with the sole purpose of giving and receiving love . . . Walter is one of those children! Walter is a beautiful boy with a sparkle in his eyes and a heart of gold. Although he cannot effectively communicate with words, his smile speaks for him. If you bring Walter into your home, he will definitely find a way into your heart and into your arms.

Walter will require a lifelong commitment from his adoptive family. He would benefit from a two parent home. He also needs parent's who can set clear boundaries and are willing to work very closely with the school and advocate for his needs. Though Walter is unable to express what he would like in a family, it is apparent that he enjoys people who are willing to read to him, talk to him and spend quality time with him in whatever capacity.

Walter is featured in the Heart Gallery of Southwest Florida.

Day 15

Anthony
Photo Credit: Imagine Pro
Photography

Name: Anthony

Intelligent and Funny

Favorite Food: Seafood, especially shrimp and crab cakes. Please no brussel sprouts!

Favorite Animal: Dog

Best School Subjects: Reading and art

Favorite Things: Play PS2, Xbox360 and just chill. He likes all music, as long as there is no cursing.

About Anthony: Very intelligent and caring, Anthony is also respectful, responsible and well organized. He is funny, nice and likes to talk to people. He looks for friends who don't bully others and who have a good sense of humor. He has an older brother named Dwight.

Perfect Family: A mom and a dad, siblings would be okay, but definitely no smokers.

A Perfect Day: Breakfast in bed, drive to school in a limo, no homework, have his own library, get a $1-million check, and sleep over with friends in a mansion.

Future Plans: Anthony is in Florida Business Leaders of America. When he grows up, Anthony would like to be a video game creator or web designer.

Anthony is featured in the Heart Gallery of Northwest Florida.

D'Quarion and Chasmen
Photo Credit: Carol
Walker-Thomas
Bruce Studio

D'QUARION
"All I want is a family."

Favorite animal and what he'd love to have for a pet: A dog!

Loves: History, watching movies, playing football.

What his forever family should look like: "I want them to be young, and I want them to love me."

Nicest thing he's ever done: Gave a toy to another child.

Naturally outgoing: This funny, sociable, helpful teen loves to attend church and sing in the choir.

His perfect day would be: "Anything with my adoptive family; I want nothing more than to be adopted."

CHASMEN
I'm a Jokester.

Values: Someone who is strong and not a follower.

Favorite pastimes: Playing piano, watching television, playing video games, football, drawing.

Describes himself as: A dependable friend and someone who is nice and funny.

Others describe him as: Sociable, "a true jokester," active and very talented at drawing.

He wants His forever family to know: that he loves math and science, would love a tiger as a pet and that his favorite food is pizza.

He wants a mom and dad: Who won't give up on him.

His perfect day will be: The day he finds his forever family.

D'Quarion and Chasmen are featured in the Heart Gallery of Pinellas and Pasco.

Day 14

Michael
Photo Credit:
Juan Dale Brown
Scripps Treasure Coast
Newspapers

Michael, 15, is a typical teenager in many ways. He enjoys video games, rap music and football. He also likes both action and horror movies.

Like a lot of kids his age, Michael isn't a big fan of school. However, he said Math is his favorite subject. Michael would thrive in a loving family with a strong male role model capable of providing support and guidance while ensuring he achieves all he can in life.

Michael is featured in the Heart Gallery of Okeechobee & the Treasure Coast.

Jesse
Photo Credit: Teri Kovacs

Intelligent and shy, Jesse prefers the comfort of being at home. His hobbies include playing video games, reading, dancing and listening to Michael Jackson. Outside of the home, Jesse enjoys brief outings such as going out to eat for Mexican food. Jesse also enjoys unearthing the history of World War II and hopes to one day become a video game designer. Jesse is currently being raised Jewish, and we are seeking families open to persevere his religious beliefs and practices. The ideal family will be committed to helping Jesse by accepting his eccentricities and unique personality, which demands a routine schedule. Jesse's intelligent mind will keep his family interested in what this quiet teen has in store for his future.

Jesse is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

Day 13

John

John's loving, engaging personality and contagious smile will steal your heart. He remembers intricate details about everyone he meets, and he loves to play memory games. He sings in the car, loves salt and vinegar chips, and will challenge you first to a drawing contest and then to a tickle war! John thrives on attention, and his ideal family would be very affectionate and loving, able to provide behavioral structure and support, and able to encourage his experimental learning in order to help him reach his full educational potential.

John is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

Ciara
Photo Credit: Ron Grecco
Photography

"I am kind, loyal and loving, not to mention spunky and unique!"

Favorite foods: Ciara is not picky at all -- she likes EVERYTHING.

Animal of choice: If she could have a pet, Ciara would choose a Chihuahua.

What she wants most in a family: Unconditional love. Given a choice, Ciara would like either her mom or dad (or both) to be Hispanic.

When she grows up: She wants to be a Veterinarian.

Musically speaking: Ciara enjoys a wide range of music including reggae, hip-hop, and country. She also LOVES to sing and plays clarinet!

What others say about her: Ciara is a very outgoing child who is extremely talkative and fun-loving. She has a one-of-a-kind personality. She identifies with the Hispanic culture although she is Asian. Ciara is funny, tells great jokes, and loves to dress up. She has a beautiful smile and enjoys giving and receiving hugs!

Ciara is featured in the Heart Gallery of Pinellas and Pasco.

Day 12

Tierra
Photo Credit: Double Exposure

Tierra is a motivated young lady who enjoys playing video games, dancing, singing, and playing clarinet in the school band. She is on the honor roll, and her favorite subject is math. Tierra has expressed a desire to be adopted by a two-parent African American family that already has children where she can celebrate the rest of her childhood among her loving forever family.

Tierra is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

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Kanard
Photo Credit: Stacy Ferris

Kanard has a great sense of humor, loves watching movies, listening to music, riding his bike, drawing pictures, cooking, playing video games, and playing with animals. Kanard's favorite food is shrimp puffs and he enjoys most homemade foods. Kanard's favorite movies are X-Men, Shrek 3, Grinch, and Speed Racer.

Kanard is featured in the Heart Gallery of North Florida.

Day 11

Christine
Photo Credit: Debra Weisheit

Quite the storyteller, Christine may one day be on the New York Times best seller list as a thriving fiction writer! When she's not expressing her emotions through her stories or creating one-of-a-kind artwork, this spirited youth loves to sing. She prides herself on her ability to care for and help others. Christine requires a family that will be encouraging, positive, nurturing and understanding. Her forever family will provide her with structure, support and clear, consistent boundaries. Christine will look to her forever family for the skills to continue to build self-esteem so she has every chance for success and happiness as she grows into a young lady. Her forever family will also facilitate healthy and constructive ways of dealing with her losses and help her turn them into gains. Christine would like to be adopted that would allow her to maintain a relationship with her brother, Reggie, through telephone calls and visitation.

 

Christine is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

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Romeo
Photo Credit: Melissa Anderson

Romeo is a good-natured, playful African American boy who always seems to be in motion. He takes pleasure in diversions that are typical for boys his age, like watching basketball and imitating the players, playing with matchbox cars and listening to music. Romeo also enjoys going to school and participating in activities with his peers.

Romeo has a significant relationship with his current caregiver and does well with other children. He is non-verbal, but thrives with routine and in environments that are familiar to him.

Romeo would definitely benefit from being in a home with two parents who are committed, are able to provide consistency and order, even when he focuses on them with his soulful brown eyes. Romeo's adoptive parents must be willing and available to work closely with the school to meet his academic needs.

Romeo is featured in the Heart Gallery of Southwest Florida.

Day 10

Deshaun
Photo Credit: Ron Jackson

The sound of children laughing, the aroma of the bus and the chaos of rush-hour traffic are all part of Deshaun's daily routine as he rides the school bus. Deshaun loves life, revels in the fresh outdoor air and finds sheer joy when participating in pet therapy sessions. He enjoys the company of those with buoyant personalities and favors cheery melodies. He's also a cartoon enthusiast, enjoys being the center of attention and is rather curious! Deshaun longs for a forever family to be committed to him and continue to help him reach his fullest potential.

Deshaun is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

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Roy and David
Photo Credit: Tom Carter
Carter Photography

Fourteen year old Roy and thirteen year old David are very close siblings. David is out going and sociable and never meets a stranger while Roy is generally shy and quiet. David is very smart and he does well in school where he is in special classes to meet his educational needs. He especially likes to building things and riding his bike. Roy is a freshman in high school, and does very well. He loves riding his bike, computer games and building things. Roy recently was member of a Robotics team that built a computerized Robot. These brothers need a very special adoptive family who are prepared to assist David with lifelong support. They are a great sibling group who can't wait to have their own forever family.

Roy and David are featured in the Heart Gallery of North West Florida.

Day 9

Johnnisha and Tyrell
Photo Credit: Debra Weisheit

Johnnisha and Tyrell are looking for a patient, loving family ready to provide stability to both of them. Johnnisha admires the music of Katy Perry, and her favorite song is "Fireworks". A fan of scary movies, Harry Potter, and the Twilight saga movies, this talented amateur photographer and athlete can light up and shine in any setting. The ideal family for Johnnisha will be one that enjoys a little spark and one that lets her shine as she ignites into a beautiful young woman.

Playing football or competing on XBOX puts the pep in the step for this energetic young boy! Whether on the field or off, Tyrell likes to be the ball carrier but is easily distracted when he's not kept on task. Tyrell's ideal family will provide double coverage (a two-parent home). Families will have the home field advantage if they possess patience and know when to be hands-off on the sidelines as Tyrell runs for the goal but will be ready to help carry the ball back to safety when Tyrell needs guidance. Still a rookie in the game of life, Tyrell longs to be part of a bigger team and stop being a free agent. He is waiting to score the right family, increasing his odds of winning a brighter future.

Johnnisha and Tyrell are featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

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Marshal
Photo Credit:
Demetrius Branca

Marshal is eleven years old. He is an intelligent and curious little boy. He enjoys spending time skateboarding, riding his bike, participating in boy scouts, playing video games, drawing and just about anything outdoors. Marshal loves going places and being active. Marshal could spend hours on activities with small parts and working with his hands. He loves almost all foods but some of his favorites include: pizza, cakes, cookies, vegetables, and hot dogs.

Marshal is featured in the Heart Gallery of North Florida.

Day 8

Anthony and Dwight
Photo Credit: Imagine
Pro Photography

Name : Anthony

Intelligent and Funny.

Favorite Food: Seafood, especially shrimp and crab cakes. Please no brussel sprouts!

Favorite Animal: Dog

Best School Subjects: Reading and art.

Favorite Things: Play PS2, Xbox360 and just chill. He likes all music, as long as no cursing.

About Anthony: Very intelligent and caring, Anthony is also respectful, responsible and well organized. He is funny, nice and likes to talk to people. He looks for friends who don't bully others and who have a good sense of humor. He has an older brother named Dwight.

Perfect Family: A mom and a dad, siblings would be okay, but definitely no smokers.

A Perfect Day: Breakfast in bed, drive to school in a limo, no homework, have his own library, get a $1-million check, and sleep over with friends in a mansion.

Future Plans: Anthony is in Florida Business Leaders of America. When he grows up, Anthony would like to be a video game creator or web designer.

Name: Dwight

A Handsome Poet

Favorite Food: Vanilla and banana milkshakes

Favorite Animals: Reptiles, but not alligators

Music/TV of Choice: Dwight likes all music, except loud rock, and he enjoys the Syfy channel.

About Dwight: A self-described romantic, Dwight is a charmer who will make you laugh.

Favorite Subject: Girls, also reading and technology.

What He Likes to Do: Play video games, go to the library or on outings, draw and write poetry.

Dwight's Perfect Day: Girls and video games.

Perfect Family: Dwight would love a mom and dad or a single mom, siblings older or about his age, and no babying. He has a younger brother named Anthony.

Future Plans: Dwight wants to be a football player, video game designer or a poet

Anthony and Dwight are featured in the Heart Gallery of Pinellas and Pasco.

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Kenneth
Photo Credit: Frank Avilla,
Children's Home Society of
Florida, Treasure Coast

With a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous grin, Kenneth, 13, will win your heart. He is very talkative and eager to learn. He loves to be the center of attention and will not hesitate to ask questions. He very much enjoys basketball, soccer, dogs and video games. Kenneth states he is a huge fan of the outdoors and enjoys catching lizards, frogs and grasshoppers.

Kenneth must have a family with clear, consistent rules in order to help him reach his full potential. Kenneth has a lot going for him, but needs the one thing most important to any child - a permanent and loving family.

Kenneth is featured in the Heart Gallery of Okeechobee & the Treasure Coast.

Day 7

Aleasha
Photo Credit: Eric Hasert
Scripps Treasure Coast
Newspapers

Upon first meeting Aleasha, 17, one will find her to be quiet, reserved and respectful. Once she begins to feel comfortable, however, she may surprise you by revealing she is musically inclined and was in an all-female hip-hop/rap group. Yet, you must get to know her very, very well before she will to perform for you.

Combined with her striking good looks, Aleasha has a keen interest in clothes and hair. She shows talent in fashion design. She loves to browse and shop the fashionable stores for the most stylish designs and can easily incorporate the looks into her own, with whatever is - or isn't - in her closet. She has future aspirations to become a highly-respected cosmetologist and stylist.

 

Aleasha's dream family is one that is youthfully outgoing and busy. She would love to be part of a Forever Family that can empathize with the torment and wonder of being a teenager while still providing her the stability, structure, guidance and rules she admittedly needs in her life.

 

Any family that is interested in Aleasha must be comfortable allowing Aleasha continued, frequent visitation with her younger teenage sister. Aleasha would like her new family to be agreeable to adopt her sister should she become available in the future.

 

Aleasha is featured in the Heart Gallery of Okeechobee & the Treasure Coast.

 

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Jimmy
Zach Thomas Photography

Jimmy is sixteen years old. His favorite foods include Mexican and Italian. His favorite color is red, and he enjoys watching shows with super heroes. He likes to play soccer, baseball, play video games, watch TV, and to read. He dreams of becoming an architect or joining the military when he grows up.

Jimmy is featured in the Heart Gallery of Jacksonville.

Day 6

Brittany
Photo Credit: Monica Dyer

Brittany is a delightful child with a smile that lights up the room! She is determined to be herself and is learning how to express her emotions through sign language. Although Brittany has difficulty with speech, she is working hard on her communication abilities. She is extremely active and affectionate - she's a "girl on the go." Her ideal family will be willing to accept her and be there for her unconditionally. Brittany's forever family will be rewarded with a lifetime of love.

 

Brittany is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

 

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Dereck
Photo Credit: Frank Avilla
Children's Home Society
Treasure Coast

Wanted: a Forever Family that considers themselves "Football Fanatics."

 

If we could somehow predict the future for this handsome, 6-foot-1 (and growing), 15-year-old young man, it would certainly have a Super Bowl ring in it. Dereck's true interests lie in sports, especially in playing football, weightlifting and wrestling. He is currently playing on his high school football team and is eager to have a family that shares his love of sports, especially one that is willing to root him on to victory at every game.

 

Although Dereck may have the size and strength to one day reach his goal of becoming a pro athlete, that is just one side of this well-rounded teen. Intelligent and ambitious, his academic aspiration is to study law after high school. Upon first meeting Dereck, he can easily entrance you with his shyness. However, don't let that fool you because he will soon demonstrate his unmistakable sense of humor and wit.

 

Dereck is seeking a forever family able to inspire him with the solid support that only a true fan can provide. In return, he will provide you with years of pride, laughter, love and the wonderful feeling of being part of his Forever Family fan base.

 

Dereck is featured in the Heart Gallery of Okeechobee & the Treasure Coast.

 

Day 5

Wyatt
Photo Credit: Berk Photography

About Wyatt: This self-proclaimed "King of Video Games" would like to be a video game inventor when he grows up.

Loves: Electronic battleship, Nerf games, but also likes to draw and write stories.

Favorites: Food: salmon, Burger King and Wendy's; colors: gold and silver; animal: wolverine; subject in school: spelling; music: rap and hip-hop.

Describing Wyatt: smart, outgoing, typical teen; will tell you everything he knows about a subject, would prefer to be the only child in the home.

Prospective parents need to be: respectful and young.

Wyatt is featured in the Heart Gallery of Pinellas and Pasco.

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Eric
Photo Credit: Natasha Cuevas

Eric is a funny, but quiet, teenage boy who enjoys playing video games as well as basketball. He is best described as being independent, in that he does not mind being alone at times. However, when in social settings, Eric does get along well with his peers. He also likes receiving one-on-one attention from his caregivers and enjoys going to the beach. Eric's favorite foods include bagels with cream cheese and cereal and he dislikes chicken and spaghetti. Eric is also good with family pets, being the fondest of dogs. He hopes to have his own dog one day.

 

School does not come easily for Eric, but he is receiving the necessary educational services and his favorite subject is math. Eric needs a family that is involved in his educational needs and advocates on his behalf. At this time, Eric is not sure if he wants to attend college or go straight to work after graduating from high school.

 

Eric does have several siblings and while he is not being adopted with them, they all maintain a close relationship. Therefore, he needs a family who is willing to facilitate sibling contact and support that relationship. Eric is open to either a two-parent or single parent family, and would love to have other children around. He does need a family who can set clear boundaries, while still providing love and a nurturing environment. Eric truly wants to be adopted, as to have a family to call his own.

Eric is featured in the Heart Gallery of Southwest Florida.

 

Day 4

Reggie
Photo Credit: Debra Weisheit

He's no class clown, but this teen loves being the life of the party and making others laugh. He is known as the "detective," as he has a knack for finding misplaced items, even a needle in a haystack! His caregivers always appreciate his willingness to help, his street smarts and his survival skills. Reggie is a highly energetic teen who excels in sports and loves the attention of females. He does best when he can stay busy and enjoys participating in plenty of extracurricular activities. We are seeking a two-parent family willing to provide firm, loving guidance in a structured environment with clear and consistent rules. The family must have tireless commitment to help Reggie learn to trust again to he can allow himself to open his heart and turn his losses into gains. Reggie would like to be adopted by a family that would allow him to maintain a relationship with his sister, Christine, through telephone calls and visitation.

 

Reggie is featured in the Heart Gallery of Palm Beach.

 

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Shangoria, Raynard and
Dorthy
Photo Credit: Karen Ziemkowski

Eight-year-old Shangoria is friendly and greets others with a smile and a hug. She loves to sing and dance. She enjoys socializing and playing with her brother and sister.

 

Raynard is seven years old. He enjoys playing singing, and watching television. He loves problem- solving by putting puzzles together. He enjoys riding his bike and playing sports.

 

Dorthy is six years old. She makes friends easily and she is very bubbly and animated. She enjoys receiving attention and praise from others as well as playing with her siblings.

 

This adorable trio will truly fill your home with the sounds and activities that say nothing but love. They've had a rough time of it in life, but we haven't given up hope on finding them a family. They need to be adopted together and require constant monitoring due to behavioral issues.

 

Shangoria, Raynard and Dorthy are featured in the Heart Gallery of Broward.

 

Day 3

Christopher
Photo Credit:
Elise Schreiner Photography

"A Great Big Heart"

 

Favorite Food: Pizza

 

Least Favorite Foods: Beets, broccoli, spinach and collard greens.

 

Favorite Color: Purple

 

Favorite TV Show/Movie: Anything on the History Channel is great. Pearl Harbor tops the list of Christopher's favorite movies. He wants to join the Army when he grows up.

 

What He Likes to Do: Computer games are fun for Christopher, and so is recess at school. A budding photographer, Christopher really likes to take pictures.

 

Favorite Things: Christopher is great with animals. He loves dogs and cats and has plans to volunteer at a Doggie Daycare.

 

Ideal Family: Christopher wishes for a mom and a dad, a brother or a sister near his age, and, of course, a dog!

 

About Christopher: Sweet and a little shy, Christopher is friendly and helpful with a big heart that just needs to be loved.

 

Perfect Day: "Go to the beach, no school and everyone's happy."

 

Christopher is featured in Heart Gallery of Pinellas and Pasco.

 

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Merville
Photo Credit: Rachelle Vance

Merville is a handsome 16 year-old. He has a great sense of humor, enjoys being silly and would make a great comedian. Merville is extremely bright, very articulate and likes to show off his large vocabulary during conservation. Merville is in need of a permanent family that will nourish his need to excel in the academic arena and who will be able to positively influence his active behaviors.

 

Merville is featured in the Heart Gallery of Broward.

 

 

Day 2

Tairra
Photo Credit: Frank Avilla,
Children's Home Society,
Treasure Coast

Tairra, 14, is somewhat shy upon first meeting someone new but warms up quickly. She is a self-described country girl who loves to feed and hopes to learn to ride horses. She also says she would enjoy raising a hog one day. She plays some sports including wrestling, football, basketball, running and jump rope. In school, she always enjoys science and sometimes likes math.

 

Some of the possible careers that Tairra could envision herself pursuing in the future include lawyer, pediatrician, writer or someone who trains guide dogs. A stable home with boundaries would work best for Tairra, who hopes to find a loving, kind "Forever Family" with dogs and either no children or a daughter as she would adore growing up with a sister.

 

Tairra is featured in the Heart Gallery of Okeechobee & the Treasure Coast.

 

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Tyler
Photo Credit: Natasha Cuevas

Tyler comes across as a shy and distant teen. However, once he gets to know people and trust them, he is more willing to open up. Tyler is typical of teens, wanting to play video games, enjoying music and having a cell phone. He has stated his goals are to complete high school and then enroll in technical school, in order to become an auto mechanic. Tyler requires frequent supervision and would need to be the youngest or only child in the family. He has experienced multiple losses and traumas in his life, and needs his family to understand how this impacts his daily decisions. Tyler currently receives services, which must remain in place for his success. Thus it is critical his adoptive parents be strong advocates for his needs, while being highly involved in the services currently provided. Tyler has enjoyed various activities, such as church, volunteer work, music lessons and outdoor camps. He is proud of his accomplishments, but benefits from continued reinforcement to stay involved in these activities. Tyler has stated he wants to be adopted and looks forward to having a family of his own.

 

Tyler is featured in the Heart Gallery of Southwest Florida.

 

Day 1

Witshy
Photo Credit: Melissa Anderson

Witshy is a delightful young man. He has the brightest smile and can make a room light up with it! He has a form of Cerebral Palsy in which he requires the use of a wheelchair. He receives therapy everyday at school to help improve his small commands and motor skills. Witshy is unable to form words verbally however he does communicate through smiling, verbal cues, crying and touch. He has been receiving physical and occupational therapy at his school where they applaud him for his progress in completing small commands and working towards lessening his use of his wheelchair.

 

Witshy enjoys when people read to him and when he can hear music from toys, the radio or on television. Witshy appears happiest when people are just talking to him and seeing how he is doing. Witshy appears to be much more aware than previously believed as he responds more to verbal commands and he attempts to make more communication through his limited verbal abilities and body language. Witshy is adored by his caregiver and he demonstrates a genuine attachment to this caregiver. Witshy will need total care for the rest of his life, therefore he needs a family that is dedicated, strong, patient and possibly experienced in the medical field to assist with Witshy's medical needs.

 

Witshy is unable to express what he would like in a family, but it is apparent that he enjoys people who are willing to read to him, talk to him and spend quality time with him in whatever capacity. Witshy can bring a great deal of love and satisfaction to a deserving family.

 

Witshy is featured in the Heart Gallery of Southwest Florida.

 

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Tommie and Janyia
Photo Credit: Amy Pezzicara
Children's Heart Gallery of
Tampa Bay

The first thing you notice about Tommie is his beautiful and welcoming smile. Although he's a little bit shy at first, Tommie quickly opens up and shows off his great personality. He's always up for playing Batman or a game of basketball, and he loves to hang out with his big sister. Tommie's joy is infectious, and he loves when those around him are as happy as he is. Tommie has a lot to be proud of for such a little boy, and he deserves to have a loving family he can call his own.

 

Very motivated and determined to do her absolute best, Janiya is a fun and active little girl to be around. She makes friends easily, and her welcoming smile and friendly demeanor disarms children and adults alike. Janiya's quite the girly girl, though you can often find her on the basketball court, practicing for the WNBA. With the right amount of love and encouragement, Janiya will be able to achieve her hopes and aspirations.

 

Janiya and Tommie would do very well together in a patient and loving home, where their talents and sweet personalities will be nurtured and encouraged.

 

Tommie and Janiya are featured in the Children's Board Heart Gallery of Tampa Bay.

 

To Find out more information about Amazing Children featured here please call 1-800-96-ADOPT (1-800-962-3678).

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