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Marshall

14 years old
Adopted

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Marshall is a bright, friendly, and big-hearted teen who thrives when he feels connected and supported. He enjoys being active and is working hard toward his personal goal of getting healthier so he can keep doing the things he loves---like shooting hoops, swimming, and playing football. He lights up when he’s around friends, pets, and other kids his age. Those who know him describe him as sweet, helpful, and unafraid to ask for what he needs, with a shy side that quickly fades once he feels comfortable. He enjoys math, video games, and dreaming big about his future, imagining himself as a doctor or even a YouTuber. Marshall is proud of the progress he’s made at school and at home, and he continues to work hard on building healthy routines and communication skills . Most of all, he is excited about the idea of joining a family—one that has siblings, pets, and plenty of adventure, where he can feel supported, understood, and loved unconditionally as he grows into the confident young man he is becoming.Marshall would truly flourish in a patient, encouraging, and motivating family. One that celebrates his strengths, believes in his potential, and provides consistent structure as he works toward his goals, like getting healthier and becoming more confident in himself. His team shares that he thrives when he is surrounded by positive influences and adults who guide him with warmth and steady expectations. Marshall dreams of a two-parent household with brothers and sisters—both older and younger—where he can feel a genuine sense of belonging, teamwork, and connection. A family who can champion his growth, offer new experiences, and walk beside him with patience and positivity would give him the stability he’s long hoped for and the space to become his very best self.

FAQs

If a child in foster care is in the Heart Gallery, reunification with their biological family was not possible so an adoptive family is needed. Most Heart Gallery children are at least 9 years old, part of a sibling group, and/or have special needs. All children in foster care have experienced abuse, abandonment, and/or neglect; therefore, need support to heal from the trauma they have experienced.

All children are different, with a variety of unique strengths and needs so all types of families are needed. In Florida, you must be at least 21 to adopt a child from foster care. There are no restrictions based on age, race, marital status, or sexual orientation. You may live in a home or apartment that you own or rent. Adoptive parents must have a stable income sufficient to support their family.

In Florida, there is no cost to adopt a child from foster care. In fact, families who adopt may qualify for a monthly adoption subsidy. Health care for children adopted from foster care is covered by Medicaid until age 18. They also receive free tuition at any Florida state college, university, or vocational school.Federal tax credits and exemptions may also be available. Visit the IRS website to learn more.

Prospective adoptive parents must complete Adoption Orientation, a 36-hour Professional Parenting course, have an approved home study, and approved background screenings. Most importantly, you must be willing to make a lifelong commitment to a child in need.

Yes. One of the benefits of adopting from Florida is having access to a comprehensive case history. You will be given information on the child’s background, medical history, and personality. This information helps you determine if your family is the right fit for the child.

This can vary greatly depending on the situation. However, as a general rule, it usually takes about 12 months from the time a family begins training to the time when a child is placed with the family.

Yes! Your approved home study should be accepted by any child welfare agency. Each circumstance will be assessed to determine if it is appropriate for a child to move out of state. Keep in mind these adoptions can be more complex and take longer, depending on the case.

Adoptions appear to be more stable when parents have flexible and realistic expectations for their children and when they use post-adoption supports to help with challenges.

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