September / October 2015 - July/August 2019 - IN.gov
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September / October 2015
March/April
July/August
2018
2019
www.adoptachild.in.gov
SUPERPARENTS When Trey, Trenton, Mikey, and Jenelle came into foster care, their plan was to return home to their families. Reunification is almost always the initial plan when a child enters care. Adoption may eventually become the plan, but not until the team has made all efforts at reunification first. When Jeff and Autumn became foster parents for the Department of Child Services (DCS), they knew they would adopt if they had the chance. “We were in our 30s and we were ready to parent,” recalls Autumn. “Five was our maximum age, and of course our first placement, Trey and Trenton, were 6.5 and 4,” she laughs. Jeff and Autumn were eager to welcome the boys into their home. Despite their young age, the boys had already been in 3 separate placements since entering care. Trey, who is now 10, says, “I was a little nervous because I was moving to a new family once again. It was scary because I had to move a lot and I didn’t want to move again.” Jeff and Autumn didn’t want the boys to move again, either. The parents say it was difficult to live with the uncertainty of foster care—not knowing if the child you care for will be with you forever. “It’s not for everybody,” Autumn says, “You open up your house and life. You open yourself up to so much!” But the family would not have changed anything about their path. They found an amazing support system in their DCS office, especially with a worker named Tammy, who is still in their lives to this day. Tammy was not the Family Case Manager for any of Jeff and Autumn’s children, but Tammy was honest and realistic with the family. She taught them that it was not easy to parent children who have experienced trauma, but she helped them find the tools they needed to be good at it. “They are successful because they roll with it, seek out services for children when they’re struggling, and prioritize the kids,” Tammy says. When the plan for Trey and Trenton changed to adoption, Jeff and Autumn were ecstatic. Nine days after the adoption was finalized, the family celebrated with a mini vacation trip. As soon as they arrived, they got a call from DCS about Jenelle and Mikey. CONTINUED ON PAGE 56
Opening hearts. Changing lives.
Welcome to the
Indiana Adoption Program
The Indiana Adoption Program is a statewide effort to create permanence for children who are wards
of the State of Indiana. It is a program of the Indiana Department of Child Services in collaboration
with the Children’s Bureau, Inc.
There are many aspects of adoption and the Indiana Adoption Program is just one of those aspects.
We will help you consider some aspects of adoption in this book.
The picture book is also available on the internet. To view a current list of children available go to
http://www.adoptuskids.org/states/in/index.aspx. You may download a PDF copy of this “Opening
http://www.in.gov/dcs/2737.htm
Hearts. Changing Lives.” Adoption Picture Book at http://www.in.gov/dcs/2737.htm
To learn more about Children’s Bureau, Inc., see us on the web at: www.childrensbureau.org
www.childrensbureau.org or
call for a brochure:
To mail correspondence to the Indiana Adoption program send to:
The
The Indiana
Indiana Adoption
Adoption Program
Program
c/o Children's Bureau Inc.
c/o Children’s Bureau Inc.
3610 N. Meridian St.
3266 N. Meridian St., Ste. 1000
Indianapolis, IN 46208
Indianapolis, IN 46208
MARY BETH BONAVENTURA
DIRECTOR
The Indiana Adoption Program would like to thank PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN,
Abigail for the front cover illustration and Jaden for FAMILIES & FUTURE.
the back cover illustration.
www.adoptachild.in.gov 1
Indiana Adoption Program
Table of Contents
What is Adoption? .............................................................................................................................58
How Do I Start The Adoption Process in Indiana? ..................................................................................59
How to Adopt Overview ......................................................................................................................60
Step 1: Educate Yourself about Adoption .....................................................................................60
Step 2: Decide What Type of Adoption You Want to Pursue ..........................................................60
Step 3: Investigate Ways to Cover Adoption Expenses ..................................................................60
Step 4: Select an Adoption Agency .............................................................................................61
Step 5: Let Your Agency Know You Are Serious about Adopting ....................................................61
Step 6: Adoption Application .....................................................................................................61
Step 7: Attend Adoption and Parenting Classes ...........................................................................64
Step 8: Begin the Family Preparation Process ...............................................................................64
Step 9: Begin Searching for a Child ............................................................................................65
Step 10: Considering a Child .....................................................................................................65
Step 11: Prepare for Your Child’s Arrival .....................................................................................66
Step 12: The Child is Placed in Your Home ..................................................................................66
Step 13: File a Petition to Adopt .................................................................................................67
Step 14: Finalize the Adoption ...................................................................................................67
Common Challenges of Children With Special Needs ............................................................................68
The Legal Aspects of Adoption .............................................................................................................70
Adoption Chart ..................................................................................................................................71
Youth Connections Program .................................................................................................................72
2 www.adoptachild.in.gov
Opening hearts. Changing lives.
Meet Our Children
If I inquire about a child,
does this mean I will get to In this book you will see many different faces of youth.
The words next to their faces only tell a partial story.
adopt this child? Their biography is not complete. Any young person’s
A prospective adoptive parent must have story is worthy of telling you, yet what you read here
completed the Family Preparation process about them is just a few short sentences.
and be approved to adopt a child introduced The paragraphs next to each child are an introduction.
in this book. If you are just beginning that Beyond the paragraphs, we want you to know the
process or have not yet begun, a child whole biography of a child when you are considering
you see here may be living with a new making a commitment as a parent; however here in this
family before you complete the Family book we balance your need to know with a child’s need
Preparation process. for privacy and sense of well-being.
If you become their adoptive parent, a child’s Children who have experienced foster care all have one
future development, well being, and sense of thing in common: they have had to leave their home.
family and community will rest with you. And by that very fact alone, their need for healing,
stability and nurturing requires attention. Children who
Therefore, adoption requires serious
have had to endure neglect, abuse, or trauma can face
considerations.
many challenges. Those challenges can range from mild
The child’s social worker or adoption team to severe and can also be temporary or permanent.
will help determine if you and your family are
The challenges our children face will not be detailed in
compatible with the child and there may also the introductions. Listing a short medical or mental
be several families that are considering the health diagnosis can sometimes be misleading and can
same child. breach confidentiality. You can read about some of the
challenges that are common to many children in the
adoption program in a separate section of this book.
In the adoption program, many of the children are older
and may have physical, mental or emotional
impairments. Some have brothers and sisters in the
program with them and they may need to live together
or they may need to keep their essential connection to
Subscription Information each other through different living arrangements.
Please contact The youth featured in this book are in foster care and
iap@childrensbureau.org they may live with a foster family or they may be living
if you would like to receive a copy in a group home or other child-caring facility such as a
of this magazine. treatment center. Every child needs the love and support
of a family. We invite you to learn more about adopting
If you have any questions please call children in the Indiana Adoption Program.
1-855-677-5437.
You will see a number next to each child’s introduction.
Please refer to this number when making an inquiry
about them.
www.adoptachild.in.gov 3
Indiana Adoption Program
Mariyah Tiffany Dallas James
Mariyah, who is thirteen, has a beautiful smile and outgoing Dallas is a friendly, smart, and sweet fourteen-year-old boy
disposition. She is energetic, sweet, funny, and happy. Mariyah is who likes to read and play video games. He plays a lot of sports
artistic and likes to draw! She is also very theatrical. She is animated and especially enjoys football. His favorite position to play is
and is a great conversationalist. She wants to be a veterinarian when quarterback. His favorite teams are the Indiana Pacers and the
she grows up. She loves reading, watching television, coloring, and Indianapolis Colts. Dallas really likes superheroes, especially
making art. Batman, and to build with LEGOs. He enjoys reading and he hopes
to go to Mexico someday to learn about the culture and enjoy the
Tiffany is a friendly, inquisitive, playful eleven-year-old girl. She food. It is important to Dallas to find a family he can "stay with
describes herself as “silly.” She loves attention and loves to smile! forever" that is "nice and friendly" and takes family vacations. He
Tiffany is a natural comedian and can make others laugh! She loves wants any potential parents to know that he is friendly!
watching tv, especially Barbie cartoons. She plays soccer and listens
to Kidz Bop songs. She is friendly, and quick to share a smile. James is shy at first, but very friendly and talkative once you get to
know him. He is quite energetic and very inquisitive and insightful.
These girls would do best in a two-parent home with a strong, James, who is ten, collects yo-yos and is very good at yo-yoing.
nurturing female role model. They need a family that provides James is mature for his age, and he does very well with structure.
understanding, patience, encouragement, and knowledge of the James enjoys comic books and his favorite superhero is Batman. He
effects of trauma on children. These sisters are very bright and likes sports, enjoys playing basketball and football, and roots for
would do well with a family who can help them reach their goals the Chicago Bulls and the Indianapolis Colts. His favorite subjects
and their potential. Mariyah and Tiffany’s adoptive family needs in school are science and art. James loves to play video games. If he
to be willing to maintain contact with their siblings periodically. could have three wishes, he would want an adoptive home, a "nice
(8136EFIA) Lake County family," and lots of candy. James wants a home that will take trips
and perhaps go to the circus! What he wants others to know about
him is that he is good at video games and good at yo-yo.
Dallas and James need a family that can provide love, attention,
support, and supervision. They need one or two parents who can
advocate for their emotional well-being. James does well with male
caregivers, so it would be best if there were a strong male role
model in the family. They would do best as the youngest or only
children in a home. Dallas and James need a lot of reassurance that
they are loved and cared for. (8264ABHC) Delaware County
4 www.adoptachild.in.gov Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos.
Opening hearts. Changing lives.
Jayden Nathanial Xavier & Tanner
Jayden is a kind, bright nine-year-old boy! He enjoys playing outside, Xavier is an outgoing and caring eleven-year-old boy! He describes
doing things like flag football, basketball, and climbing trees. In his himself as "nice, funny, and active." He likes to play board games,
downtime, he would be happy to play a game of chess with you, play basketball, and draw. He loves animals, and dogs are his
draw, or play Minecraft. Jayden does well in school, but his favorite favorite. Xavier likes to bake, enjoys crafts, and plays soccer. When
day of the school year is "Fun Friday," when students get to "watch he is older, he hopes to become a firefighter. If he had three wishes,
movies" and "eat good food!" Jayden is a fun-loving, charismatic he would want to fly, have superhero powers, and be a superhero.
nine-year-old. If Xavier could go anywhere in the world, he would go to Disney
World. Xavier enjoys learning new things and meeting new people.
Although Nathanial can be a bit shy when you first meet him, when In the future, he hopes to join Boys & Girls Club and attend
he begins to open up, his personality shines! Nathanial, who is nine, summer camp.
has a curiosity about life and is quick to ask questions and engage
with others. Nathanial enjoys playing card games such as Uno and Tanner, who is ten, likes to play video games, play Monopoly, and
Go Fish. He likes playing with trucks and cars and listening to swim. Tanner is proud of his drawing skills! He is doing well in
music – especially country. He likes television and watching Paw school, where is favorite subject is math. Someday, he hopes to
Patrol and SpongeBob SquarePants. His favorite video game is travel to Washington D.C. to meet the president! Tanner has only
Mario Kart. He always chooses Mario as his character. His favorite one wish— to have an adoptive family.
sports are basketball and football. Nathanial also enjoys other
outdoor activities such as going to the park, where he can climb The family that would be best for Xavier and Tanner would be
and swing. Those close to Nathanial describe him as an intelligent knowledgeable in helping children who have experienced trauma.
and funny nine-year-old boy, who is also creative and is caring. Parents who provide structure, safety, and set clear boundaries
would help Xavier and Tanner to thrive. They hope a family has a
The family that would be best for Jayden and Nathanial would routine and will play with them. They are affectionate and would
be patient and committed to their long-term wellbeing. Potential thrive in a home that can provide lots of one-on-one attention.
parents will need to provide strong support to Jayden and Nathanial. They would like to live with a family that resides in the country
It would be beneficial for Jayden and Nathanial to join a family and has lots of pets. They would like to have a nice, kind, family
that is active and focused on encouraging their growth through that enjoys traveling and watches movies together. (8405ABHC)
education and new activities. Parents will need to provide constant Ripley County
supervision and guidance. It is important that all prospective
families understand the effects trauma can have on children.
(8564ABDD) Owen County
Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos. www.adoptachild.in.gov 5
Indiana Adoption Program
Gabriel & Elizabeth Robert, Leroy, & Shawn
Gabriel is a spirited ten-year-old boy! He likes spending his time Robert describes himself as “quiet, shy, and friendly.” What Robert
outside, and will climb trees, ride his bike, and jump on the likes most about himself is how helpful he is to his brothers.
trampoline. In his downtime, he likes to watch television, listen to Robert’s favorite subject in school is art because he loves to draw.
music, or play games on his tablet. Some of the best things about For fun, Robert plays soccer, basketball, or video games. He wants
Gabriel are that he is a creative, likes to laugh, and he enjoys helping to try out for his school’s basketball team. His goals are to get good
others. grades, and to be the best he can be! He is an inquisitive and caring
young man.
Elizabeth is a very sweet and loving eight-year-old girl. She is
so active! Elizabeth likes to run, climb trees, and play on the Leroy is an outgoing and confident fourteen-year-old boy! “I’m a
trampoline. Elizabeth is creative! She enjoys arts and crafts, such cheerful person!” he says. Leroy excels in school, where he enjoys
as building things, drawing, and painting. Elizabeth also likes to reading, math, and art. He likes to draw, play basketball or soccer,
play with baby dolls. Elizabeth is quick to help in the kitchen, and and play make-believe. He says, “We act out different things and it
enjoys cooking. Elizabeth is bright, independent, and has all the makes us laugh!” Leroy is a friendly boy who has a smile that will
qualities of a leader! light up a room.
The family that would be best for Gabriel and Elizabeth would give Shawn, who is thirteen, is very caring, and enjoys spending time
them stability. They would thrive in a family that can shower them with his brothers. He can appear pensive when you first meet him,
in attention and support. It is important that an adoptive family but he is a sweet kid with a big heart! He likes to draw, play with
understands how trauma can affect a child. (8705ABHC) Dearborn toy cars, and ride his bike. His favorite sport is basketball. If Shawn
County had three wishes, he would want to become a pro basketball player,
drive a racecar, and have more wishes.
Robert, Leroy, and Shawn will need strong single or two-parent
family that maintains consistency and understands how trauma
can affect children. Shawn thrives when he is given praise and
encouragement, as well as clear expectations. Parents must provide
supportive, nurturing care and help these boys maintain their
sibling bond. (8731ABCIA) Lake County
6 www.adoptachild.in.gov Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos.
Opening hearts. Changing lives.
Abigael "AJ" & Caleb Jaden & Camron
Abigael, who goes by AJ, has big plans for her future. When she Jaden is a bright fifteen-year-old boy who does well in school. His
grows up, AJ is determined to become a nurse, so that she can help favorite subject is science. For fun, he likes to play video games, or
children. She is an intelligent and kind sixteen-year-old who often play basketball or football with his friends. Jaden enjoys cooking,
takes on a motherly role with younger children. AJ has a good and he likes all types of foods. In his downtime, Jaden enjoys
sense of humor and enjoys reading, writing, and drawing. Initially, drawing and is very good at it. He would love to travel out of the
she may come off shy, but once she gets to know you, AJ is very country someday. He describes himself as happy, and his favorite
open and honest. thing about himself is his drawing abilities
Caleb is an outgoing and friendly young man! He is fifteen, and Camron is a nice, thoughtful, playful, and funny thirteen-year-old
describes himself as funny, and his favorite thing about himself boy. Social studies is his favorite subject. He is also learning Spanish,
is that he is smart! Caleb loves to watch movies, and his favorite and enjoys it! Camron likes to play video games, play football and
movies are the Lord of the Rings series. He is very creative, and basketball. Camron is active in his church youth group. What he
makes time to write and draw. He likes to write his own songs and likes most about himself is Camron gets along well with everyone.
likes to sing them to people! If he could go anywhere in the world,
he would want to go to Hawaii to relax on the beach, learn to surf, Jaden and Camron need a loving and patient family. It is important
and maybe even try to hula! Caleb is a confident, charming guy they have consistency and stability in the family so they may feel
who is determined and eager to be adopted. safe and loved. Jaden and Camron need to know that their adoptive
family will always be in their life. They do well around animals and
AJ and Caleb would like to live in a two-parent home with a hope to have a dog in their adoptive home. Camron said he wants
mother and a father. They would benefit from having parents to take vacations as a family someday. They both want a family that
who are strong, yet sensitive. They would thrive if given plenty of will talk, hang out, and play games with each other. (8826ABDD)
attention, so they will benefit from being the only children. AJ and Vanderburgh County
Caleb need a family who is knowledgeable about trauma informed
care and understands how trauma can affect a child throughout a
child's life. They will do well with a family that is calm, patient, and
understanding. (8727WS/8781WS) Hamilton County
Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos. www.adoptachild.in.gov 7
Indiana Adoption Program
Aquanis & Aquyla Dylan & Christian
Aquyla, who is thirteen, is a bright, confident young lady who Dylan is a little boy with a big personality! He is seven, loves to talk
describes herself as funny and smart! She is charming and outgoing and especially loves making people laugh. He has a great sense of
and she makes friends easily. For fun, Aquyla enjoys drawing and humor! Dylan likes to stay active and one of his preferred activities
running. She recently ran a 5K. In her downtime, she will sit with a is being outside riding his bike. He can take a little bit to warm
good book or journal. She loves pop music. Hailee Steinfeld is her up, but once he does, he forms strong bonds. He is excited about
favorite musician. Aquyla dreams of becoming an actress someday, life and always wants to be moving and doing something fun. He
but for now she is focusing on getting good grades this year! Aquyla will sit down to watch his favorite kind of television, however, live
believes her greatest strength is that she helps others. police shows.
Aquanis is a true gentleman! What he likes most about himself is Christian is a sweet, loving six-year-old boy who people describe
that he plays well with others. Aquanis is nine, and enjoys playing as "happy-go-lucky." He loves anything with wheels, especially
video games, basketball, or going to the movies. He enjoys doing tractors! He enjoys watching them ride around and the noises they
puzzles or playing with his LEGOs. His favorite movie is Black make. Christian likes being outside and riding his bike when the
Panther, but he really enjoys The Avengers series. Aquanis is an weather cooperates and just all around enjoys being active. He has a
active boy who enjoys learning. His favorite subject in school is lot of energy! He is happy to sit down and watch his favorite movie,
gym. Overall, Aquanis is a loveable, easy-going kid! "The Good Dinosaur," any time. This little guy lights up when he
knows he is doing the right thing and really enjoys cuddling.
Aquyla and Aquanis would do best in a loving family that can
provide structure, safety, and stability. It is important that they are At this time, Dylan and Christian’s team is only considering
in a home where they have supervision. Potential adoptive parents inquiries from families in Indiana. Out-of-state inquiries will not
must understand how trauma can affect children. (8838ABIA) receive a response until all in-state families have been considered.
Lake County Dylan and Christian would do best in a home with two parents,
especially if one of those parents are there before and after school.
The parents would need to understand attachment parenting. The
boys will need a slow transition and time to adjust to their new
forever home so parents who can show them a lot of patience and
understanding are ideal. They would prefer a home where they are
the only children so they may receive the attention they deserve.
Older children would be fine, but they would need to be several
years older than Dylan and Christian. Potential parents need to be
able to model appropriate behaviors and understand the impact
trauma can have on children. (8907ABBD) Jennings County
8 www.adoptachild.in.gov Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos.Opening hearts. Changing lives.
Mackenzie, Maddox, & Mackaya Brayden Zayne
Mackenzie is a sharp thirteen-year-old who loves to learn, although Brayden is an open, honest young man who's big into sports! He
she'll tell you her favorite class in school right now is recess! She likes is thirteen, loves basketball and his favorite team is definitely the
her arts and crafts or getting to perform. She is currently learning Golden State Warriors. He likes to look good and you can usually
how to play the clarinet and performs in the choir. Mackenzie's big find him decked out in his nicest Nike or Jordan brand clothing,
goals in life are to become a famous actress and a foster mother to
perfect for shooting hoops! He does well in school and makes the
give kids like her plenty of opportunities. She gets artistic with her
nails and makeup and enjoys showing off her style. If she had three A/B honor roll. Brayden enjoys explaining things and talking them
wishes she'd want more shoes and more clothes to really round out through so that he knows he fully understands a subject. When
her wardrobe! he's with his friends, he likes to play the collectible card game
Magic: The Gathering, he'd even be happy teaching you how to
Maddox is a smart nine-year-old boy who loves science and solving play someday! If the weather cooperates Brayden enjoys being able
puzzles! He follows directions well and in school is happy to help to get outside and go fishing or swimming, especially if his brother
other students if they're having trouble with any of the work. He
can be a little shy when you first meet, but once he warms up he gets to go, they have a strong relationship. He's not a picky eater,
can't stop smiling! Outside he likes his team sports, like football but he'll probably skip the peas.
and baseball, or just getting to hang out and jump around on the
trampoline. Maddox is very creative and loves building things or Zayne is a funny ten-year-old boy who loves to be the center of
making art, whether it's coloring, drawing, or painting. attention! In his free time, he likes to play video games or sports,
two hobbies he really wants to be able to share with a forever
Mackaya is a happy-go-lucky six-year-old girl who loves to stay
family. His favorite sports are baseball and football and one day
active! She likes riding around on four wheelers or getting to go
swimming, but she's just as happy staying inside playing with her he wants to become a professional football player! Zayne is a big
Barbies and other dolls. She's currently working on her ABC's, animal lover and hopes that wherever he ends up has a cat and a
colors, and shapes and loves getting to show off what she's learned. dog, preferably a big Husky. When not active on the field, he likes
Mackaya likes getting to be the center of attention, especially when to spend some time relaxing and reading a good book.
she gets to dance around or tell you some funny jokes she knows!
She wants you to know that her favorite colors are pink and purple, Brayden and Zayne would do well in either a two-parent home or a
and her favorite food is definitely pizza rolls.
one-parent home with support as they both adore one on one time.
Mackenzie, Maddox, and Mackaya are looking for a two-parent Families should be able to express healthy emotions and openness.
home so they can receive all the love and attention they deserve. They do well with other children but would prefer brothers or sisters
They would prefer to be the only children in the household. that are their age or older so that they can play games together.
They like animals and would love to have a pet, as long as they're The boys need stability, support, and communication. Patience will
monitored. They want a family that emphasizes time to do activities be key to a smooth transition. Families should model appropriate
together. Families should provide plenty of structure, routine,
behaviors in a violence-free home. Brayden and Zayne will thrive if
support, and especially patience while the transition into a forever
home occurs. Parents should understand the impact trauma can given proper mentorship by a forever family. (8916ABMN) Elkhart
have on children. (8909ABCDD) Spencer County County
Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos. www.adoptachild.in.gov 9Indiana Adoption Program
Jayden Jayla Julia & Brandon
Jayden is an energetic ten-year-old boy who will tell you his big Julia, who is twelve, is a bright young lady with a big smile! She
dream is to become a professional basketball player. His other is a good student who takes pride in working hard academically
hobbies include football and collecting cars. Jayden enjoys card to achieve her goals. Outside the classroom she spends a lot of
games such as UNO and playing with his action figures which her time playing sports. You can find her on the diamond or on
lets him stretch his already big imagination. He is also a fan of the the court where she excels at both softball and basketball. She has
movie “Black Panther.” Just like the “Black Panther,” Jayden would recently taken an interest in drama and the theater, and hopes to
describe himself as both fast and smart. When not pretending get a part in some school plays soon. This independent girl has a
to save the world, he is an animal lover, his two favorites being big imagination and likes to relax by watching YouTube or playing
cheetahs and puppies. on her computer. She's always ready to learn something new!
Jayla is a playful but sensitive nine year-old girl who enjoys helping Brandon is a smart, friendly eleven year-old boy who does well in
others. She likes singing and playing dress-up with her dolls and school! When not busy learning, he loves to stay active. Whether
her friends. She especially loves when the outfits she has to work it's playing sports, he has been on both the wrestling and basketball
with are pink, her favorite color! Jayla likes to read and loves the teams, or just playing outside. Brandon likes to play video games to
book "Sometimes I Curl Up in a Ball." She will tell you the subject relax and also spends time collecting both baseball and Pokémon
she enjoys most in school is reading, and wants to do it more often. cards. He is very protective of his siblings and they have a familial
If she had one wish it would be that she could travel anywhere in bond that needs to be nurtured.
the world! Hopefully somewhere she could get some turkey, her
favorite food. Julia and Brandon would do best in a two-parent home and would
prefer to have a mom and a dad. She is looking for someone who
Jayden and Jayla would do best in a two-parent home that has some can teach her about clothes and makeup and he needs a strong
support. Ideally that would include a strong male role model to parent who can show healthy emotions. They have a strong sibling
spend plenty of one-on-one time with the young children. They bond and need plenty of attention so would do best as the only
will need a family who can provide firm and consistent boundaries children in a home. Interested families should be willing to make
while also showing affection and understanding. They would thrive education a priority as both children work hard in school. Parents
in a household where they are the only children so that they receive should show patience, support, and understanding with regards to
all the attention they desire. (8917ABWS) Tippecanoe County the transition into a forever family. (8928ABDD) Gibson County
10 www.adoptachild.in.gov Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos.Opening hearts. Changing lives. Joshua, David & Elijah Joshua is a strong student who excels in school and is loved by his teachers! He is fourteen, and can be introspective and thoughtful, but can also be outgoing, especially when he's playing the drums in the school band! He has participated in both wrestling and football in school and would like to continue those, he is a big sports fan. When not playing, Joshua likes watching sports on tv and is usually found rooting for his favorite Florida teams (Go Gators)! After high school he would like to attend college but first he wants to join the Marines because "I want to serve my country." David is a kind, respectful thirteen-year-old with a bright personality! He loves hanging out and goofing around with his friends, and once he gets comfortable with you, he'll talk your ear off ! He enjoys video games like Fortnite and one day hopes to become a graphic designer. His hard-working attitude should help him achieve whatever he puts his mind to! David has played football and baseball before, but never on organized teams, although he would like to try it someday. When it's time to relax, he has fun watching exciting tv shows like The Flash. Elijah is an outgoing thirteen-year-old boy with a big heart and bigger personality! He is very sociable and makes friends easily, he is always looking to help someone out. His brothers say, when he tells you he's going to do something for you, he means it. He likes to stay active and plays soccer and basketball, and hopes to join the soccer team at school someday. If the weather is nice enough, he's happy to spend the day outside swimming or fishing. Elijah's big goals are to attend college and become a computer technician. To relax he enjoys the show Ghost Adventurers and hopes you're brave enough to watch with him! Joshua, David, and Elijah would thrive in either a one or two-parent home, they just need a strong male role model in their lives. They would prefer to be the oldest children in the household but do fine with other children. Interested families should be willing to make sure education is a priority as all three boys have big plans for their futures. Parents should be open about their feelings and create a safe, warm environment for the boys to express themselves. They need routine and consistency and would love a forever family that likes to stay active. They have a strong sibling bond that families should work at fostering. (8946ABCMN) Elkhart County Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos. www.adoptachild.in.gov 11
Indiana Adoption Program
JOIN US FOR A MEET & GREET!
Enjoy basketball, arcades, crafts, or laser tag?
So do our kids! Indiana Adoption Program
Meet & Greet events are fun for everyone.
If you are a foster family who is open to
adoption, or if you would like to meet the
children whose profiles are featured in this
book, please e-mail our team to learn how you
can attend one of our fun, interactive events!
If you would like to attend one of our
adoption Meet & Greet events, please e-mail
iap@childrensbureau.org or message Indiana
Adoption Program on Facebook.
12 www.adoptachild.in.gov Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos.Opening hearts. Changing lives.
Sylvester Alan Damon
Sylvester is a very lovable, calm, and Alan, who is sixteen, describes himself as Damon is a fifteen-year-old boy with
handsome seventeen-year-old boy. In the funny and artistic. He hopes to have a nice, many interests, like being outdoors and
summer he loves to play in the pool and caring family that travels. For fun, Alan participating in sports. He loves being
he enjoys watching the Disney Channel, enjoys LEGOs and Pokémon. Alan’s favorite active and likes to ride his bike and play
coloring, and dancing. His favorite movie Pokémon is Charazard, and he likes to play baseball and basketball. He enjoys fishing
is “Red Tails” and he enjoys when someone with trading cards and virtual games. Alan and camping and prefers playing outside.
reads to him. Sylvester is bright and wants to be an inventor or a video game Damon also likes playing video games
maintains good grades in school. Sylvester’s designer when he grows up. He loves dogs on his tablet and is eager to show those
favorite classes are gym, music, and art. He of all sizes, and if he had his own dog, he interested how to play. His favorite video
would like to be a policeman when he grows would name it "Coco." He is very good at game is Minecraft. Damon likes to play by
up. When asked where he would like to go building things. He likes to build space himself or one friend at a time. He excels
someday, he says, “to college.” ships out of LEGOs! He would like to visit in school and enjoys all subjects, especially
LEGOland in Chicago someday. His second math and science. Damon describes himself
Sylvester needs a nurturing family that dream destination would be Japan. Alan as "funny" and "awesome." He is driven and
can provide stability, supervision, and plays basketball, and he wants to be on a has a positive demeanor.
appropriate medical attention. He would team someday. His favorite NBA team is the
greatly benefit from a two-parent home. Chicago Bulls. In school, Alan enjoys art, Damon would do best in a family that
Sylvester needs a strong male figure who science, and gym. Alan is an easy-going kid can provide lots of attention, structure,
will be consistent with discipline and who whose smile will brighten your day! and stability, as well as nurture him. It
is willing to spend a lot of one-on-one time would be best if he was an only child or
with him. He would do best in a home with Alan needs a loving, patient family that can there were older children in the home.
only older children. He needs a family with nurture him and help him reach his fullest Parents should be patient and be able to
a lot of patience and love to get him through potential. Alan will need a lot of one-on- advocate for his educational and emotional
the trauma that he has experienced. one attention and his family will need to be needs. Both single and two-parent
Sylvester has siblings with whom he willing to take plenty of time for him to adjust homes will be considered. (7047BBD)
will need to maintain contact. (4063IA) to change. Alan does best with structure and Bartholomew County
Lake County routine and it would be best for him to be
an only child. Any potential family will need
to be committed to supporting Alan. Alan
wants a family that is nice and caring, as well
as active and involved in the community.
(6056SG) Marion County
Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos. www.adoptachild.in.gov 13Indiana Adoption Program
Avery Kylis Briestyn
Avery, who is ten, has a happy disposition Kylis is a sixteen-year-old boy who is fun to Briestyn is an intelligent, funny, and
and is quick to smile. He enjoys watching be around. He is very outgoing, pleasant, and energetic fifteen-year-old boy! Briestyn
animals and spending time outside. He likes polite. He likes to spend his time drawing, loves the outdoors, and doing activities such
to sit at the window and watch the birds. playing video games, riding bicycles, and as riding bikes, jumping on a trampoline,
Avery gets very excited to watch his foster playing with friends. Recently, Kylis enjoys and playing with animals. He also enjoys
family’s chickens and dogs. Avery loves to swimming, and says he enjoys spending watching movies, listening to rap music,
swing! He has a swing inside that he enjoys. time outdoors. He likes to be around peers playing video games, and drawing. Briestyn
He likes to put puzzles together and enjoys and enjoys attention from adults. He likes has natural athletic ability and enjoys
participating in home-based school. He school, especially math and science. When playing football and basketball. Briestyn’s
likes listening to stories, and enjoys arts he is older, he hopes to become an engineer! favorite football team is the Seattle
and crafts. Avery also enjoys music and Kylis hopes to have a family with whom he Seahawks. He would like to play wide
watching TV programs. He especially likes can go to the movies. He wants parents who receiver on a football team in the future.
to watch the Disney Channel. Avery loves are "nice and cool." What he wants people to He is eager to try new things, especially if
to spend time with others. He is bubbly and know about him is he is "fun to be around." it involves physical challenges or creativity!
a lot of fun! Briestyn has a wonderful sense of humor,
Kylis would do well in a home that can and is compassionate and caring. He is an
Avery is a very sweet boy who needs a family provide structure and consistency. He needs engaging young man who is full of life!
that is committed to him and his many a family that is attentive to him, will let him
medical challenges. It would be beneficial to know he is important, and will assure him Briestyn would be most successful in a
have a family that is familiar with parenting that he is safe. Parents must commit to two-parent home, with an extended family
a child with special needs. Families with an Kylis' permanency. Kylis would benefit from support system. His family will need to
excellent support network, and knowledge a family that is patient and understanding, provide close supervision and plenty of one-
of developmental delays and medical needs and able to encourage Kylis. Parents should on-one attention. He needs a family that is
are preferred. It would be recommended provide Kylis with a variety of activities encouraging, strong, and patient to help
that the family be familiar with or willing to offer structure. Both single-parent and him overcome his intense emotional and
to learn sign language, as this would allow two-parent families will be considered. behavioral needs. Briestyn would do best
the family to communicate with Avery. (8060DD) Vanderburgh County as an only child, or as the youngest child
(8039MN) Allen County with an older sibling who can be a positive
role model. Briestyn needs parents who will
show him unconditional love. (8106DD)
Vermillion County
14 www.adoptachild.in.gov Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos.Opening hearts. Changing lives.
Michael Tyresa Aubra "Zack"
Michael loves to try new things! He gets Tyresa is a very smart and inquisitive Aubra, who goes by "Zack," is an imaginative,
very excited about learning new skills, fourteen-year-old girl who is a joy to be inquisitive, and funny fifteen-year-old boy!
like how to swim or how to play baseball. around, and she can be very insightful. He is very interested in computers and
Basketball is his favorite sport and he also For fun, Tyresa likes to spend time with technology, especially video games. He
loves to play with action figures, Nerf toys, her friends or read. Tyresa loves to laugh once learned how to build a computer in
and puzzles. Michael is a polite and soft- and make others laugh, so her favorite school! Zack enjoys putting things together
spoken fifteen-year-old. He can also be very thing about herself is that she is funny. and figuring out how they work. Zack likes
funny! He enjoys making art and he loves Tyresa has interest in dance, gymnastics, LEGOs and comic books. He is fascinated
television shows and video games. He hopes and art. Tyresa likes to listen to music in by Greek mythology and symbols. Zack's
to become an actor when he is older. When her downtime. When she grows up, she favorite thing about himself is that he is a
asked what kind of home he would like, he wants to be a therapist. If Tyresa had three quick learner. Those close to Zack like that
said, "I am not too picky, but I hope they wishes, she would wish for a nice adoptive he smiles a lot, and he is eager to learn. In
have a TV!" Michael is very helpful, and his home, to keep on seeing her siblings and the future, he hopes to travel the world.
favorite thing about himself is he can do the grandmother, and that she could keep in Zack describes himself as funny, helpful,
splits! contact with all the people who have helped and believes anything is possible if you set
her. your mind to it!
Michael needs a loving, stable, permanent
home where he can receive plenty of one- Tyresa needs an understanding, patient, Zack will do best with a family that is patient
on-one attention. Michael would do well structured home, preferably with two and understanding. His new family can help
in a single parent or two-parent home with parents. Her new family will need to him by providing structure and routine.
or without siblings. Michael's new family encourage her to have the childhood she Zack thrives on one-on-one attention and
will need to advocate for his education missed out on and also will need to advocate encouragement. He would do best as the
and provide structure, patience, and for her emotional well-being. Potential youngest or only child in a family. He needs
reassurance. (8121IA) Lake County parents should be active and model good a family that supports his imagination, but
behavior. Tyresa would thrive in a home is also comfortable in being realistic with
where she is the only or youngest child. She Zack. It is important that an adoptive family
has a sibling with whom she will need to understands how trauma affects children.
remain in contact. (8122IA) Lake County Zack hopes he is adopted by a nice, fun, and
active family. (8125WS) Miami County
Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos. www.adoptachild.in.gov 15Indiana Adoption Program
Jonathan James Charles
Jonathan is a friendly, adventurous sixteen- James is an intelligent, funny, and caring Charles is a bright thirteen-year-old who
year-old boy who loves to play outside. He sixteen-year-old boy. He is very clever and enjoys music and video games. He describes
enjoys spending time with adults, and can he has a great memory. He is friendly and himself as friendly and funny. Charles likes
be quite helpful in the home. Riding his easy-going. James likes "every kind of animal, to play basketball, as well as dance, draw, and
bike is one of Jonathan's favorite activities! except for snakes, crocodiles, and spiders." watch movies. Charles does well in school,
He also enjoys kicking around the soccer James is energetic, so he loves to run and play and enjoys studying with his classmates. He
ball. Jonathan works very hard to be as outside. James describes himself as, "nice and recently participated in his school's spelling
independent as he can be and he has made sometimes funny," and he is "still thinking" bowl, as well as art club! What Charles likes
great strides. Jonathan's teacher thinks he about what he wants to be when he grows up. most about himself is that he loves a good
is remarkable young man who is sweet and debate. When he is older, Charles would like
caring. In school, Jonathan enjoys group James would benefit from being in a home to be a lawyer, teacher, or a police officer.
reading time, as well as recess! He is quick where the caregivers are encouraging and Charles likes dogs, and wants to adopt one
to lend a helping hand to his teachers. One nurturing. He would do well in a home with and name it “Max.” Charles is smart and
of our favorite things about Jonathan is his a strong male role model. James needs parents personable, and gets along well with others.
easy-going nature! who will help him express his feelings and
create a safe environment to do so. James Charles would do well in a loving two-parent
Jonathan would do best with a family that would thrive in a home where he is able to home with parents who are firm, but fair. He
can provide structure and consistency. He participate in extracurricular and community will need supervision and parents who can
needs a single parent or two-parent home events, and where the parents are actively provide consistency, stability, and patience.
with a family that can provide supervision, involved and supportive of these endeavors. Charles would benefit from a strong male
encouragement, and attention to his (8156ABD) Scott County role model in his life who can provide
medical and educational needs. Jonathan positive one-on-one attention. Charles
does well with other children and pets. would thrive in a home where the parents
(8149IA) Newton County continue to encourage him to succeed as
well as advocate for his educational needs.
(8161CIA) Lake County
16 www.adoptachild.in.gov Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos.Opening hearts. Changing lives.
Austin Jonathan Joshua
Austin is a shy fourteen year-old boy when Jonathan, who is fifteen, can be shy, but he Joshua is a happy sixteen-year-old boy who
you first meet him, but once he opens up, has a wonderful smile and happy disposition! is sweet and affectionate! He likes being
he is friendly and inquisitive. Austin has a He likes to swim, play basketball, and ride tickled, and will hold your hand once he
desire to excel in school and in Boy Scouts. his bike. In the past, he participated in the gets to know you. Joshua enjoys sensory
He gets along well with others and is polite. Special Olympics. He is very social and activities and toys. He has a big appetite,
Austin loves the outdoors and spends lots likes to make new friends. He is happy to and is not a picky eater! Joshua is an on-the-
of time outside swimming, helping others, shoot hoops with his peers or play outside. go kind of guy, and enjoys spending time in
or playing sports. He likes to play football Jonathan likes to go to sporting events, and the community. He loves to watch TV, and
and basketball, and likes the Chicago Bears is a huge Colts fan. Jonathan is very curious his favorite movies are “Shrek” and “Home
and the Indiana Pacers. He wants to be and inquisitive. He is doing well in school, Alone.” Those close to Joshua adore him!
a professional athlete or a police officer and he likes to try new things. He is a good kid who will shine when he is
someday. Austin has a big imagination and happy!
likes to talk about super heroes. If Austin Jonathan would do best in an active two-
could go anywhere, he would want to go parent home with no younger children. Joshua will do best in a two-parent home
to an amusement park and ride all of the Parents should be patient and consistent, that can provide one-on-one supervision
roller coasters. Austin gets along well with as well as flexible to change. Jonathan and a safe environment. Families should
animals, and especially loves dogs. will need a home that can provide have a support network to help in caring for
structure and routine. Jonathan responds Joshua. He needs a family who will advocate
The home that would be best for Austin very well to loving, supportive, and for his educational and emotional needs.
would provide structure, stability, structured environments. They should Potential parents will need to be patient,
predictability, with patient parents who are also be motivated and strong with a good understanding, and active. (8225IA)
available for Austin. A two-parent home community of support to advocate for LaPorte County
where the family enjoys being active would Jonathan's needs. Jonathan wants a family
be beneficial for Austin. Parents will need where he feels understood and he knows he
to be firm and consistent in their discipline, is safe. (8181SG) Marion County
but nurturing and supportive of Austin.
(8177BWS) Hamilton County
Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos. www.adoptachild.in.gov 17Indiana Adoption Program
Joshua Damon Mahogany
Joshua is a polite, easy-going, and active Damon is a fun sixteen-year-old boy! He Mahogany is a sweet ten-year-old girl who
seventeen-year-old boy who likes video enjoys staying active, especially in the loves to play! Mahogany makes friends
games, matchbox cars, LEGOs, and playing summertime when he gets to swim and easily because she is friendly and polite. She
outside. He's got a big smile and likes to enjoy the outdoors. Damon is sweet and likes to have fun and be silly! Mahogany likes
be around people. The video games he peaceful, and often happy to spend time on to play outside by riding her bike, jumping
likes the most are Mario and Sonic. His his tablet or watch Disney movies. Damon rope, going swimming, and playing catch.
favorite TV show is The Price is Right, and has a great smile that can light up a room. Mahogany is very considerate, loving, and
he enjoys rock music. Joshua enjoys sports, He gets along well with younger children, helpful. She is also creative, and likes to
and his favorites are baseball, basketball, and loves to laugh! Damon likes to spend make posters. Mahogany is charismatic
football, and dodgeball. Recently, Joshua time with animals as well. and enjoys speaking in front of audiences.
was in the Special Olympics for track and She is engaging and smiles a lot. Mahogany
swimming! Joshua is doing well in school Damon would do best in a family that has has participated in karate, gymnastics, and
and his favorite subject is reading. Joshua’s experience with medically fragile children. church youth activities.
favorite professional sports teams are the He would do well in a home that can
Chicago White Sox, the Chicago Bears, provide safety, stability, and structure. It Mahogany is a very bright girl who very
and the Chicago Blackhawks. When asked would be beneficial for Damon to have much wants to find a forever home. A
what is most important to him in his life, parents who can stay emotionally regulated family that would be best for her would be
he responded, “Getting a home.” Joshua and role model dealing with their emotions a two-parent, African American home that
hopes to have a “regular family” where on in a healthful manner. Parents will need can provide stability, unconditional love,
weekends, the family would spend time to be consistent in tending to Damon's and affection. Mahogany needs parents who
together by going bowling, having a movie medical and emotional needs. Damon will are consistent and will set and maintain
night, or going shopping. need plenty of supervision and assistance boundaries with her. Parents who are calm,
in a home, so parents who are patient and nurturing, and active would be helpful for
An ideal family for Joshua is a patient, calm, nurturing would be beneficial for him. It Mahogany. If there are other children in the
nurturing two-parent family where he can is important that potential parents have home, it would be best if they were older.
have adequate supervision. Joshua hopes a healthy support system. (8249BHC) (8252IA) Lake County
his adoptive parents will help him with Wells County
homework and play sports with him. It
would be best if he were in a home where he
can be the youngest or only child. (8232IA)
La Porte County
18 www.adoptachild.in.gov Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos.Opening hearts. Changing lives.
Jamarion Sean Samuel
Jamarion is an energetic eleven-year-old Sean is an active and friendly fourteen “Colorful, emotionally and creatively,” is how
boy who loves staying active by playing year-old boy! Sean enjoys playing video Samuel describes himself, “rambunctious
football! His favorite football player is Odell games on his XBox. His favorite games are and silly too!” He is fourteen, has a bright
Beckham Jr. Jamarion describes himself racing games. Sean will proudly show off his and playful personality and his mentor
as smart and athletic. He is ambitious favorite toy: a remote control dinosaur. He admits: “all in all, Samuel brightens my day.”
and shows little hesitation in trying new also enjoys playing with the other children Samuel’s favorite thing about himself is his
things. Jamarion is bright, creative and has at home and at school. Sean is a very caring intelligence. He has a good sense of humor
a positive outlook on life. Jamarion likes and loving child and is eager to please. He and is quick to smile! For fun, Samuel enjoys
school and makes friends easily. He is also is more open to trying new things and is spending time with friends playing Minecraft
on the A/B Honor Roll! Jamarion likes to doing well in school. Sean is good at sports, or the card game Magic: The Gathering. His
play video games with his friends. Overall, such as basketball, soccer, and bowling. favorite movie is “The Avengers: Infinity
Jamarion is friendly, does well in school, is His goals for his future are to master the War.” When he is older, Samuel hopes to go
social, and likes to try new fun activities! yo-yo, and to become a superhero! Sean to Full Sail University to study video game
has a growing sense of mastery over his design. Samuel wants a “nice and loving”
Jamarion has a desire to be a part of a world and has begun to approach activities family who will go shopping with him.
family. He would do best in a single or two- with excitement.
parent home that can provide structure and The family that would be best for Samuel
unconditional positive regard. He would Sean would do best in a home with two would be a two-parent home where
benefit from a strong male role model parents who have a large support network. the parents are nurturing, patient, and
who can help guide and support Jamarion. Parents will need to be able to provide understanding. Potential parents should
Jamarion will need to keep in touch with adequate supervision as well as positive be flexible and ready to make a life-long
his biological family once he's adopted. redirection. Potential parents will need commitment to Samuel. He needs a family
(8253IA) Lake County to advocate for Sean's educational and that will show him appropriate boundaries
emotional needs. Sean does well with other and how to treat one another. Samuel would
children and enjoys being around other do well in a home that is active and can
people. (8254MN) Allen County provide plenty of supervision and one-on-
one attention. It is important that parents
understand how trauma can affect a child
throughout their life. (8270WS) Fulton
County
Please go to www.adoptachild.in.gov to view videos. www.adoptachild.in.gov 19You can also read
