“When I first meet up with J, he’s always a little quiet,” explains his Child-Specific Recruiter, Kelli. “Then as he begins to warm up, he’ll ask for my phone or try to tell a two-sentence story.”
The shy demeanor of this 12 year old doesn’t last too long. “Once he’s comfortable, he asks a lot of questions,” shares Kelli. “Both generally inquisitive questions and others to help him figure out how things work. Understanding things fully gives him more confidence.” This confidence is deserved, too. “Once you explain everything to him, he’ll try it and be better than you on his first try. Then he’ll playfully brag about how good he is.”
J and Kelli stay active on his visits. “What we’re doing isn’t important; it’s more about doing the activity together,” she explains. They will go miniature golfing, run around a ninja warrior gym, or go to the zoo. “He loves the farm exhibit and reading the signs to learn about the different animals.”
“J is the all-around American boy. He loves football and basketball” says Kelli. “He would love the opportunity to play extracurricular sports.”
He’s also really interested in video games. Fortnite and Roblox are his favorites. For this reason, he really hopes for a family that likes video games, sports and the zoo. But ultimately, what he wants is simple. “He really wants a mom and dad,” shares Kelli.
J would do best in a two-parent family who is active in their community. His family should provide structure, clear expectations, and be ready to give him extra motivation when he needs it. J is open to a family anywhere in Minnesota, but his adoptive family must be prepared to help him maintain his connections with siblings.
DETAILS TO NOTE
We cannot share identifying photos or information about J online.
The majority of costs to Minnesota clients adopting youth under Minnesota state guardianship are covered by a contract with the Minnesota Department of Human Services.
Learn More About J
If you would like to know more about him, please contact Kelli Hanson at [email protected] or 651.255.2441. Families may have to provide certain documentation to receive full information.
