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Spring 2009-10 Edition
Snapshots of
Philadelphia’s Children
Awaiting Adoption
Presented by the Heart Gallery of Philadelphia
Dear Friend:
In the Philadelphia region there are literally hundreds of children who are
available for adoption. As you page through this book, you will see
some of the faces of these very special children and you will learn
something about them. One likes to play basketball, another loves to
read. A few are siblings hoping to stay together. Each is exceptional in
his or her own way. But all of them have one thing in common. They
are waiting. Waiting for a loving, stable home and a forever family they
can call their own.
You can end the wait for one of these beautiful children.
This year, the Philadelphia Department of Human Services and the
Bucks County Children and Youth Social Services Agency have
partnered in an effort to find families who can open their hearts and
their homes to these deserving children. We hope that as you look at
these young hopeful faces you will consider adoption and contact us
for more information.
Sincerely,
Anne Marie Ambrose
Commissioner
Philadelphia Department of Human Services
The Heart Gallery of Philadelphia
collaborated with the Philadelphia Department of Human Services to
create the Heart Gallery of Philadelphia. Professional photographers
donated their time and skill to create beautiful, compelling portraits of
foster children in Philadelphia as part of the Heart Gallery’s goal of finding
permanent, loving homes for these youth. Over the course of the year,
these photographs will be part of a traveling exhibit. The exhibit raises
adoption awareness, but more importantly it gives voice to the many
foster children in our community looking for their “forever family.”
Ultimately, the hope is that through these portraits prospective parents
will be moved to adopt. These children are deserving of
our attention, our compassion, our help, and our respect.
To learn more about the Heart Gallery of Philadelphia
or to find the location of the exhibit, visit
www.heartgalleryphiladelphia.org
List of Contributing Photographers
Allebach Photography
Sarah Bones
Charles Callaghan
Karen Carey
David DeBalko
Ruth DeBardeleben
Debra DiFulvio
David Fonda
Susie Forester
Christine Foster
Barbara Hayward
Terry Hirst
Jeremy Hess Photography
Heather Hughes
Peter Koop
Leah MacDonald
Laura Novak
Dan Naylor
Joanne Posse
Sabina Louise Pierce
Ed Wheeler
Tony Wood
The “PhillyKids Connection” Fact Sheet
What is the “PhillyKids Connection?”
The “PhillyKids Connection” is a collaborative effort between the Philadelphia
Department of Human Services (DHS) and the National Adoption Center to recruit
adoptive parents for Philadelphia’s population of children-in-waiting. The National
Adoption Center expands adoption opportunities for children living in foster care
throughout the United States, and is a resource to families and to agencies who
seek the permanency of caring homes for children.
Do you have to reside in Philadelphia to adopt a
Philadelphia child?
Although the Philadelphia Department of Human Services is interested in recruiting
more adoptive parents from within the city, being a resident of Philadelphia is not a
requirement in order to adopt a child from Philadelphia.
What is a typical profile of a Philadelphia child-in-waiting?
The majority of Philadelphia’s children-in-waiting are between the ages of eight and
twelve, although there are some children younger and older than this median age
range and more and more are becoming teenagers. The vast majority of Philadelphia’s
children-in-waiting are African-American. Caucasian and Hispanic children make up
the balance. Some of the children have emotional, psychological and developmental
challenges stemming from histories of poverty, abuse and neglect. Despite these
circumstances, every one of these children deserves and would greatly benefit from
the love and support of an adoptive family.
What are the requirements for becoming an adoptive parent
of a Philadelphia child?
The first requirement is that you have plenty of love in your heart, space in your
home and a true sense of commitment. The profile of adoptive parents has changed
dramatically over the years. Single people, same sex couples, retirees, and trans-racial
4
adoptive parents have joined the traditional nuclear family. Becoming an adoptive
parent of any child is not easy. Children with special needs have endured varying
degrees of trauma in their young lives, and therefore require a great deal of love,
patience and support. Prospective adoptive parents must first submit an application to
the National Adoption Center. This application will then be forwarded to a licensed
adoption agency that conducts background checks, an in-home assessment, and the
necessary training and orientation. The prospective family then works with the licensed
agency and with the DHS social worker through the adoption process.
Can I choose the child I am interested in adopting?
The licensed adoption agency works closely with prospective adoptive parents to
achieve the most ideal match between a family and child. Because this is a recruitment
initiative for Philadelphia children, please emphasize with the adoption agency that you
are interested in a child from Philadelphia. Although it is not always possible to adopt a
specific child - primarily because the needs of the child may not fit ideally with the
capabilities or home circumstances of the prospective adoptive parent – the adoption
agency and DHS will work closely with adoptive parents to bring about a union
between family and child that is in everyone’s best interests.
How do I get started with the adoption process?
You have already taken the first step by contacting our colleagues at the National
Adoption Center. The next step is to fill out and mail the application you are sent by
the National Adoption Center and follow up with the licensed adoption agency that
contacts you about your interest.
What ongoing help and support can I expect from DHS?
There are various levels of financial subsidies available to adoptive parents. Additionally,
the adoption agency and DHS will work closely with adoptive parents throughout the
adoption process and beyond, in a committed effort to ensure that the bonds of love
and family are fully developed. For example, you will be provided with information on
adoption support groups in your area.
Who can I speak with if I have additional questions about
the adoption process?
There are several organizations that stand ready to assist you:
National Adoption Center 215-735-9988
Statewide Adoption Network (S.W.A.N.) 1-800-585-SWAN
5
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Alexander Alex, born February 7,
2000, is a bright and
friendly nine-year-old.
Alex’s favorite subject in
school is science, though
he says he has the most
fun in gym class. Alex
loves video games, but as
an avid reader, he also
makes time for both read-
ing and writing. He espe-
cially likes the Captain
Underpants series because
it’s funny and makes him
laugh, just like his brother
does when he tickles him.
One of the special people
in his life is his teacher,
Miss Levine, “because
she’s kind and helps me
with my work.” When he
grows up, Alex says he’d
like to be a forensic scien-
tist, solving mystery cases.
But there’s no mystery at
all about what he’d wish
for. Besides a trip to
Disney World and money
to buy video games, Alex
would like to get adopted
by a wonderful family.
Photographer, David Fonda
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
6
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Ashley
Photographer, Terry Hirst
Ashley is a little shy, although she loves people and warms up quickly, especial-
ly if you make her smile. Ashley likes to listen to music, watch videos on the
computer and see her favorite characters -- Elmo and Sprout -- on television.
She also enjoys spending time with others and responds to attention with her
heartwarming smile.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you would like to open your heart and home
to this child, please contact caseworker
Jeneen Overberger at 267 880-5905.
7
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Carolyn Carolyn, born 2/15/1992,
is an extremely helpful
and friendly child who
enjoys talking to others
around her. She enjoys
helping staff around
the classroom and
participating in weekly
classroom jobs. Carolyn
likes jumping rope,
playing basketball,
swimming and going
out to the movies and
to dinner. She also is an
avid dancer and has
recently taken an interest
in cooking delicious
meals.
Photographer, Karen Carey
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
8
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Charell Charell, born August 19,
1992, is a very likeable and
loving 16-year-old who
loves making other people
happy. She especially likes
to make people laugh,
something that comes easi-
ly to her thanks to her great
sense of humor. Like all
teenage girls, Charell likes
to hang out with her
friends (who also like to
laugh) and watch funny
movies and go shopping. In
school, she does well in
English, her favorite sub-
ject, but she admits that in
history she could stand
some improvement. Charell
says that in the future she’d
like to work as a nurse-mid-
wife - a perfect profession
for such a caring young
woman. College is in her
plans too. Her greatest
desire, though, has always
been to have a mother to
love, one who would love
her with all her heart.
“And,” she adds wistfully,
“an end to racism.”
Photographer: Jeremy Hess Photography
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you would like to open your heart and home
to this child, please contact caseworker
Kim Niblick at 215 340-5905.
9
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Dajunay Here is a bright and shin-
ing 11 year old who loves
life. Dajunay, born
February 19,1997 is a, tal-
ented and smart young
lady who loves to act and
sing. In school, she’s a
math whiz and enjoys
math class more than any
other. Dajunay also enjoys
her free time and spends
it playing basketball and
chilling in front of the TV.
Some of her favorite food
includes macaroni and
cheese and collard greens.
Of the people in her life,
she admires her father the
most because he is very
loving. When asked what
she’d like to be when she
grows up, Dajunay says
that she’d like to be a vet
or a lawyer. Besides a big
house and a million dol-
lars, Dajunay wants very
much to achieve her life
Photographer, Christine Foster goals.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
10
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
David With a smile a mile wide,
this adorable two-year-old
has a temperament to
match. David, born
November 22nd, 2006, is
one happy baby. David
loves to be outside, loves
to swing, loves music and
laughs non-stop when
tickled. He even rubs his
belly to fall asleep.
Already an avid fan of
Elmo and Sponge Bob,
David loves being around
people best of all.
Although he can’t say it
quite yet, David’s number
one wish is to find a “for-
ever” family.
Photographer, Allebach Photography
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you would like to open your heart and home
to this child, please contact caseworker
Jeneen Overberger at 267 880-5905.
11
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Deniera & Jessica
Photographer, Leah MacDonald
Jessica, 12, and Deniera, 13 are two beautiful young women whose beaming
faces exude lots of joy. Though close in age, these siblings have different likes
and dislikes. Jessica’s favorite subjects are math and reading. Her sister
Deniera’s – computer science. Jessica likes to spend her free time watching TV,
talking on the phone, drawing, dancing, and doing friends’ hair. Deniera, on
the other hand, prefers anything athletic. She likes football and basketball and
is particularly proud of herself for being so good at football. Jessica is proud of
herself too, for her ability to make friends and her willingness to help others,
just like her older sister helps her, teaching her the things she doesn’t know.
Jessica hopes that one day she can get into a good college so she can study to
become a doctor. Deniera’s dream is to pursue an exciting career in modeling.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in these children and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick, at 215 683-6303.
12
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Diamond Diamond, born 11/5/1992,
is a young lady who loves
all kinds of animals. She is
very smart and open to
affection. Her hobbies
include photography and
learning to play various
instruments. Diamond also
enjoys taking long walks
and listening to music.
Photographer Heather S. Hughes
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
13
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Donna and Tyleah
Photographer, Terry Hirst
Donna and Tyleah, 15 and 13, are two very close sisters who make each other
happy and make others happy too. They love to laugh and are always on the
lookout for things that hit a funny bone – movies, jokes, certain people and
definitely each other. Both sisters are musical and love to dance and sing,
making a great duo. In school, Donna likes Language Arts best while Tyleah’s
favorite subject is History. When not in school, 15-year-old Donna prefers
talking to her friends while Tyleah’s into writing poems and drawing, both of
which she’s really good at. Both sisters say that they are most proud of them-
selves for being smart and doing well in school. They know it’s important if
they’re to succeed in their future professions; Donna wants to be a nurse,
Tyleah a lawyer. For their three wishes, both sisters want a good life for them-
selves, happiness for others and, most of all, to find a forever family.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in these children and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
14
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Dylan Dylan, born 9/2/1996,
is an active young man
who enjoys school and
especially recess. His
favorite sports are football
and basketball and he
enjoys playing board
games and watching
movies. Dylan’s favorite
foods are stromboli and
hot wings and he loves
spending time with
others.
Photographer Dan Naylor
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
15
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Ian Ian, born April 4, 1997, is an
intelligent young man with a
thoughtful, sensitive soul. He
also has a great sense of
humor and says he makes
himself laugh (and others
too) all the time. Proud of his
creativity, Ian excels in art
and counts it as one of his
favorite subjects along with
reading, science, social stud-
ies and gym. Like most
twelve year olds, Ian spends a
lot of time riding his bike
and playing video games and
is always up for eating cheese
fries. Great at skateboarding
and karate, he says he’d like
to be better at soccer and
math. Of all the people in his
world, Ian admires his older
brother because he is
“mature and very wise.” His
dream for the future? Ian
would like to be a famous
singer or a great cook with
his own restaurant. He’d also
like to help change people’s
lives, taking care of the sick
and the poor. And he’d like
to get adopted too because as
he says, “it’s time for me to
Photographer, Laura Novak
move on to my future.”
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you would like to open your heart and home
to this child, please contact caseworker
Stacy Wilson at 215 340-8985.
16
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Jeffrey Nine-year-old Jeffrey, born
July 9, 1999, is a smart,
funny, good–natured
young man who’s fun to
be around. He loves to
ride his bike, draw and
play with his toys, espe-
cially his prized construc-
tion trucks. Jeffrey’s good
at reading and enjoys it a
lot, but admits he’s happi-
est at school when he’s at
gym or recess. One of the
important people in
Jeffrey’s life is Darrel,
because, “he teaches me
lots of stuff.” When he
grows up, Jeffrey says he’d
like to be rich and have a
good home and eat lots of
cornbread, his very
favorite food. As for what
he’d wish for, this nine-
year-old would like to be
able to do whatever he
wants. And that includes,
one day, owning an exca-
vator all of his own and
being a part of a “forever”
Photographer, Joanne Posse
family.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
17
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Jorge
Photographer Ruth DeBardeleben
Jorge, born 10/20/91, is a magnetic young man who’s engaging and full of life.
A real athlete, Jorge likes football, basketball, fishing, swimming and karate.
Music is a real favorite with him too and for him, rap is where it’s at. Most of
all, Jorge loves animals and would love to be like the crocodile hunter when he
grows up, working with and taking care of animals. Asked for his three wishes,
Jorge says he’d like to be rich so he could help the poor; he’d like to see world
peace; and lastly, he’d like to own the fastest car in the world.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you would like to open your heart and home
to this child, please contact caseworker
Joan Milewski at 215 340-8967.
18
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Kani Kani, born October 1st,
2002, is an affectionate lit-
tle boy who loves to
receive attention. Full of
life and energy, this boy
will steal your heart away.
Although he is verbally
limited, he plays well with
other children. Kani
enjoys putting puzzles
together and loves to play
with animals. In addition,
he enjoys sports and
always gives his best effort
when playing.
Photographer: Ed Wheeler
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6301.
19
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Kenny Here’s one wonderful 14 year
old who’s interested in just
about everything. Born
September 24,1994, Kenny
loves to listen to music (espe-
cially the Jonas Brothers),
watch movies, dance, make
collages, collect posters and
surf the net. Recently, he’s
added photography to the
mix and is interested in
exploring it more. Like any
teenage boy, Kenny loves
sports, to play and to watch.
His favorite team is the
Dallas Cowboys and its quar-
terback, Tony Romo, is # 1
on Kenny’s most admired list
because, “he’s so good at
what he does.” Kenny is also
good at what he does… and
that includes math and soc-
cer where he can play all
positions. Asked for the
things he likes best about
himself, Kenny responds,
“I’m responsible, helpful and
I’ve got a great memory for
remembering what I’m sup-
posed to do.” If given any
wish at all, Kenny chooses a
Photographer, Susie Forester forever family.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you would like to open your heart and home
to this child, please contact caseworker,
Joan Milewski at 215 340-8967.
20
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Lennette Lennette, born 7/23/93, is a
lovely 15 year old with a
great smile, beautiful eyes,
and a warm and wonderful
personality. She loves art
and particularly drawing.
She’s good at it too
although she thinks there
is always room for
improvement. In school,
Lennette likes art class best,
then math and does well in
both. Oreo ice cream is her
very favorite food; shop-
ping her favorite pastime.
She admires her sister
Janiah because as she very
simply puts it, “she’s my
sister.” When asked what
she wants to be when she
grows up, Lennette is unde-
cided between a lawyer or a
model. Her wishes include
connecting once again
with a few people who
Photographer, Peter Koop mean a lot to her.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
21
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Luke
Photographer, Sarah Bones
Luke, born October 16,1995, is an exuberant and expressive 13 year old who
loves to dance and sing. He loves to write stories too, so naturally reading is
one of his favorite subjects in school. Hot dogs with ketchup is his favorite
food. Like most teenagers, he spends lots of time on the computer, surfing the
net and playing games. Luke feels good about himself and particularly likes the
fact that he’s pretty cool and good looking too and a lot of fun. He admits,
however that he could do better in school. When he grows up, he’d like to
teach (maybe gym) or to be an owner of a factory. If he could have a couple of
wishes come true, Luke would like to star in his own TV show or be an actor in
the movies. We’re betting on Luke.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
if you would like to open your heart and home
to this child, please contact caseworker
Heather Rieder at 215 348-6953.
22
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Lydia Here is a beautiful ten-year-
old who is as loving as she is
lovable. Lydia, born
November 11,1998, is a
happy and easy-going child
who is always ready and will-
ing to try new things. In
school, Lydia loves to learn,
whether it’s graphs, calendar
skills, or shapes and says she
is really good at recognizing
colors and numbers.
Although she has some diffi-
culty with letters and sounds,
she says she’s working on it
and hopes to be a better
reader soon. Around the
house, her favorite thing to
do is to help prepare meals,
of which her specialty is
pasta, hands down. In her
free time, it’s being with
friends that she likes the
best. Lydia says that she
could see a future career as a
model since posing for this
photo was so much fun. And
if she had three wishes, all
three would be exactly the
same, no question about it -
to find herself a “forever”
Photographer, Dan Naylor family.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
23
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Lynn
Photographer, Charles Callaghan
Lynn, born April 23,1997, is a lovely, likeable and very smart eleven year old
who has already decided her future profession - an elementary school math
teacher. Math, of course, is her very favorite subject although her most favorite
thing to do in her free time is to chill out with a good book. Lynn is proud that
she excels in math, but says she’d like to get better at reading too. Asked what
else she likes about herself, she says she likes how she dresses and she likes her
laugh. Apparently, she likes to laugh a lot because the person she admires most
is a friend who is “hilarious.” If she could have three wishes, Lynn would ask
for lots of ice-cream and pepperoni pizza (her favorite kind) and to be a math
teacher when she grows up.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
if you would like to open your heart and home
to this child, please contact caseworker
Stacy Wilson at 215 340-8985.
24
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Michael, Sasha, Ciara and James
Photographer, David DeBalko
Here are four siblings who would bring a whole lot of love to any family. At the helm, is
big brother Michael, who at 15 keeps a loving eye on Sasha, 12, Ciara, 11 and James, 4.
Outgoing and good-natured, these children are fun to be around. Michael has a great
sense of humor, and just like Sasha, would like more time to hang out with his many
friends. Ciara may seem a bit shy at first, but in no time, will have made you her friend
too. All the children do very well in school. Michael is crazy about basketball, wrestling,
video games and drawing on rainy days. Sasha loves to cook, celebrate any occasion, ride
roller coasters and play with make-up, but her favorite thing to do by far is to go shop-
ping with her sister. Ciara’s a shopper too although she also likes to read, swim, play
basketball, and go to the movies. As for James, he likes to play with his matchbook cars,
watch Spiderman and wrestle with his big brother. These wonderful children would like
to find a terrific family where they can all be together, happy and loved.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you would like to open your heart and home
to these children, please contact caseworker
Jeneen Overberger at 267 880-5905.
25
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Mikal
Photographer, David DeBalko
This bright, funny, outgoing twelve-year-old, born March, 7,1996 is a young
man with lots of interests. In school, he likes Science, Social Studies and
Computers. Out of school, he loves knitting and has made lots of cool things.
Good comedy routines make him laugh and seafood makes his mouth water.
Mikal feels good about himself, and especially likes the fact that he’s funny,
friendly and artistic, and great at making friends. As for his future, Mikal would
like to become an acting legend or possibly a chef if that doesn’t pan out.
Besides Oprah who he wishes he could meet one day, Mikal admires his Aunt
Fay a lot because she always seems to have good advice.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
26
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Niesha Niesha, born July 3,1997, is a
beautiful and energetic 11-
year-old who brings joy to
whatever she does. Of the
many things she likes to do,
her very favorites are dancing,
eating hotdogs and pizza and
figuring out word puzzles.
She also likes to watch
movies that make her laugh.
In school, her favorite subject
is math while social studies,
she admits, is something she
needs to work on. Niesha is
really good at jumping rope,
and says it’s something she’s
proud of because it took a lot
of practice. One of the peo-
ple in the world she loves a
lot is her Aunt Angie because
“she takes good care of me,”
says Niesha. For her future,
Niesha would like to go to
college and thinks maybe she
will be a teacher or a cook
when she grows up. When
asked for her three wishes,
Niesha replies, “I’d like to be
rich, popular and a singer.”
Photographer, Sarah Bones
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
27
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Ricky Ricky, born 9/17/96,
loves sports. He’s an
avid fan of his favorite
Philadelphia teams but
also plays football himself,
an ace at catching and
receiving. In school, math
is his favorite subject, and
although he’s good at it,
he says he wants to get
even better so he can be a
banker when he grows up.
In his free time, Ricky
plays video games and
likes funny movies. Like
any soon- to-be teenager,
Ricky can’t wait to drive a
car. In the meantime,
he’d love to have a
Gameboy DS, or a day at
Dorney Park or the chance
to see an Eagles’ game in
person.
Photographer Tony Wood
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you would like to open your heart and home
to this child, please contact caseworker
Beverly Wizlofsky at 215 348-6935.
28
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Shahid Shahid, born November
6th, 1995, is a likeable
young man with a warm,
bright smile and a person-
ality to match. At 13,
Shahid eats, drinks and
breathes sports. He loves
them all and is especially
good at football and bas-
ketball. His baseball skills,
he admits, could use some
improvement. Although
not nearly as much fun as
sports, his favorite sub-
jects in school include
math, science and social
studies. Shahid feels good
about himself and his
confidence is contagious.
As for the future, he’d like
to be part of the NFL,
playing for the Chargers.
And while he’s making
wishes, he’d like to be in
the Guiness Book of
World Records too. Go,
Shahid.
Photographer, Ed Wheeler
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
29
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Shayaira Shayaira, born April 6th,
1999 is a beautiful and
affectionate nine-year-old
whose big brown eyes will
melt your heart. Shayaira
likes school and does well
in her subjects. She espe-
cially likes to make new
friends and she’s good at
that too. Most of all,
Shayaira loves anything
having to do with the arts
and is happiest when she’s
dancing, singing or draw-
ing. Her dream for the
future is to become a bal-
let teacher, helping other
little girls learn about the
beauty of dance. Her
greatest wish is to belong
to a family that will love
her.
Photographer, Debra DiFulvio
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
30
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Shyana
Photographer, Barbara Hayward
Here is one adorable six-year-old!
Born April 2, 2002, Shyana is full of energy and full of love – expressed easily in
her beautiful sparkling green eyes. Just like all little girls, Shyana loves to play
with her dolls and also likes to spend time drawing. She is a happy, good
natured and lively child who loves to laugh and almost always has a big smile
on her face. What she wants most in her life is a “forever” family to love.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
31
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Steffi
Photographer Allenbach Photography
Steffi, born 6/18/92, is a wonderfully warm and bright teenager with a kind
heart and a great personality. She’s got lots of interests too. She loves to listen
to music, play basketball and football, collect posters and play video games. Her
favorite subjects in school are English and gym. Steffi’s dream for the future is
to go to college and have a family although, as a big fan of T.I., Steffi wouldn’t
mind being a rapper when she grows up. For now, she’d just like to be a part of
a family and to meet T.I.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you would like to open your heart and home
to this child, please contact caseworker,
Joan Milewski at 215 340-8967.
32
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Tahkem Born, December 15, 1997,
Tahkem is a very bright,
enthusiastic and all around
happy kid. Playful and always
ready for fun, he is also
thoughtful and considerate of
others. Tahkem loves to learn
and does well in all his sub-
jects including several “gifted”
classes and his favorite -
Math. When not in school,
Tahkem spends his time out-
doors with a basketball or a
skateboard or doing the thing
he enjoys the most - flipping.
Frontward or backward, with
no hands, a running start,
Tahkem is a pro at doing
flips…anywhere. For his
future career, he’s not sure
yet, but says he’s considering
a few options such as a
lawyer, a judge, a police offi-
cer, a vet or a construction
worker. As for wishes, he’d
like to be part of a family with
a guinea pig and a couple of
older sisters and brothers.
And, he adds, he’d also like to
Photographer, Sabina Louise Pierce
be a genius.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
33
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Tatiana Tatiana, born January 24,
1993, is a beautiful, ener-
getic girl with big brown
eyes and an infectious
smile. She loves to be
active which explains why
gym is her favorite class
and basketball her favorite
sport to play. She’s good
at it too, but would like to
be even better. Tatiana
loves to dance, play in the
snow and laugh. She’s
funny and makes friends
easily. Pepperoni Pizza is
her favorite food. The
person she admires most
is her friend because she
helps her deal with her
feelings and stay calm.
Tatiana misses being with
her family and more than
anything would like to be
in a loving home.
Photographer, Ed Wheeler
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you would like to open your heart and home
to this child, please contact caseworker
Joan Milewski at 215 340-8967.
34
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Troy Troy, born June 26, 1997, is a
smart, easy-going young man
who will steal your heart. This
11-year-old enjoys learning
and lists his favorite subjects
in school as math, reading,
science, social studies and
gym where playing basketball
wins hands down. Outside of
school, Troy spends his time
playing video games on his
Nintendo - something he’s
become an expert at. Asked
what he likes most about
himself, he says he’s glad he’s
smart and in shape, hand-
some too, but adds that he’d
like to get better at ignoring
some negative behaviors. Mr.
Chris is the person he most
admires because as Troy says,
“he never stops trying.” For
the future, Troy wants to go
to college to be a scientist and
“clone things.” If he had
three wishes, they’d include
an end to killing and for
everyone, everywhere to have
a good, healthy and successful
Photographer, Ruth DeBardeleben
life.
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
35
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Zamir This adorable seven-year-
old, born January 30,
2002, is a lovable little
boy with a big smile and a
big heart. Zamir loves to
laugh and make jokes. He
says that his friends are
funny too and can make
him laugh a lot. Besides
eating pizza, one of his
favorite foods, he also
loves to play games, espe-
cially Connect 4 and
Guess Who. When asked
what he likes most about
himself, he says that he’s
good at talking to people
and very good at making
up rap songs. He also says
that he’d like to get better
at throwing a football and
would like to find some-
one to show him how to
do it right. Most impor-
tant though, he’d like to
find a “forever” family.
Photographer, Tony Wood
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
36
CHILDREN WAITING FOR ADOPTION
Zamir Zamir, born August 31, 1996,
is an interesting, intelligent
and very likeable young man.
This 12- year-old loves to
read. In school and out, it’s
one of his favorite things to
do along with making art and
playing video games. But
Zamir is also very athletic too.
Just like our president, Zamir
is a great fan of basketball and
plays on a team. He also likes
football and is good at it, but
says he’d like to get better at
the game. In the future, Zamir
would like to be a police offi-
cer with a wonderful wife and
children and, of course, a
family pet. For right now,
though, his wish is to be able
to see his brother and, most
important of all, to be part of
a “forever family.”
Photographer, David DeBalko
Some of the children awaiting adoption have special needs
and may be receiving services accordingly.
If you are interested in this specific child and you
have already completed a home study, please ask your
adoption agency to contact DHS Social Worker
Donna Kilpatrick at 215 683-6303.
37
Foster Family
to
Forever Family
Are you a foster parent who is thinking about adopting your foster child?
Are you an adoptive parent who would like to share your experiences with
others?
Are you a professional in adoption and would like to encourage your
foster parents to adopt?
If so, the Center’s online course will be perfect for you!
The course can be accessed at www.adopt.org click on “Online Courses.”
Cost is $10.
For more information, contact Alexandra Buczek at 215-735-9988. Ext. 353
We also invite you to join other parents, potential parents, adoption
professionals and those touched by adoption on our social network site.
Access via www.adopt.org click on “Community.”
The City of Philadelphia and the Department of
Human Services thank the Heart Gallery of
Philadelphia and the photographers who have
generously donated their services and time for use of
the photographs in the PhillyKids Connection.
The City of Philadelphia and the Department of
Human Services do not discriminate, or permit
discrimination against people because of race, color,
religion, age, marital status, national origin,
disability, sexual orientation, or ancestry.
Philadelphia Department of Human Services
1515 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
215-683-4DHS
