Dominic, born in 2001, has a contagious laugh and a terrific smile that lights up his entire face. He is very active and likes to ride bikes, ATVs, snowmobiles – anything that moves. He is a safe rider and always wears his helmet, he says. If he had one wish, it would be to own his own motorcycle one day. Dominic also enjoys fishing and plays basketball and baseball. He’d like to take karate lessons someday. Indoors, he can often be found singing and dancing around his bedroom. He makes up his own songs and performs them for anyone who will listen. Dominic also likes to spend time in the kitchen, whipping up some of his famous pancakes. He is working on perfecting his toasted cheese sandwiches.

Dominic will need a family that has patience, likes to give hugs and enjoys the outdoors. An adoption subsidy may be available for the most appropriate family.

Austin has a sense of humor,

enjoys ‘tinkering around’

Austin, born in 1997, is a handsome boy with blond hair and hazel eyes. He enjoys playing video games, watching movies and playing outdoors. He is a healthy child with a sense of humor. He likes to eat at Chinese restaurants, where he uses his manners. He likes hands-on activities and would do well with a family that shares his interest in “tinkering around.”

Austin has two younger sisters, with whom he is very close. His adoptive family will need to understand the importance of this relationship and be committed to maintaining a close connection with his sisters and their adoptive family.

Austin recently transitioned successfully from a more restrictive school setting to full time in public school. He does best with additional adult support at school and has been successful in the mainstream classroom.

He does best with structure and predictability, where he knows the rules and what is expected of him. His anxiety level is likely to increase in a high stimulus environment. Austin also struggles with understanding cause and effect. He needs a family who will be committed to him throughout his life. An adoption subsidy may be available.

Dominic and Austin are two of the 147 children currently in Maine Department of Health and Human Service’s care who are seeking an adoptive family. There are 2,154 children in the state’s care and 1,189 licensed foster homes. Based in Gardiner, A Family for ME is a nonprofit program that works in collaboration with Maine DHHS to find foster and adoptive families. For more information, contact A Family for ME toll free at 1-877-505-0545 or visit www.AFamilyForMe.org and see the Heart Gallery of photographs of some of the many children awaiting a “forever family.”