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Click Here to Celebrate National Adoption Month by Supporting Local Kids in Foster Care!

Sebastian

16 years old
Adopted

A “go with the flow” kind of kid- meet Sebastian!

Sebastian loves skateboarding, playing video games, rap music, and coming up with his own sense of style. He is not afraid to try new things and is always down for an adventure. Sebastian can be described as shy and introverted, so a family that is patient in allowing him to open up at his own pace is ideal. Sebastian is known to get along with everyone and can make friends easily. Sebastian is very smart, savvy, and technologically advanced. Sebastian expressed a preference for having a mother and father in the home. Sebastian has a younger brother who he is protective of and would like to visit with on a regular basis. A family that is open to facilitating sibling visits and maintaining this brotherly bond is important. Sebastian would like a family that is active and fun but one that also likes to chill and have movie nights every once in a while. Sebastian is ready for his forever family and to see what the rest of the world has to offer!

Elijah

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Empress

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Alexis

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Isaiah

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Photographer

Jonathan Fanning

What makes a Jonathan Fanning portrait so very special? First and foremost it is our desire to create a portrait for you which helps you look your very best and also which gently makes an expression of your character and personality. All of us here will spare no effort or expense to totally please you. We truly want to create the finest portrait; for you.Careful planning is one of the main differences which separates the work of Jonathan Fanning from that of other portrait photographers. We spend time with you before, during, and after the photography; planning everything to help you learn what clothing is most complementary, how to use make-up most effectively, and what time of day is best for your portrait to be created. These are the factors, which combine to make your portrait truly outstanding! Our clients find this planning time very helpful.His personal commitment is another reason that your portraits are so beautiful. It is that careful, loving touch that separates Jonathan Fanning from the rest.Of course, the major reason for the unique sensitivity of the portraits is Mr. Fanning, himself. His enthusiasm, sincerity, and true desire to create a lasting portrait of you, can be found in very few photographic artists today. His careful blend of psychology, art, and photographic technique give his works a very special style that is both modern and timeless.

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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