Although Carlos is only 14, he is already thinking about his future. A talented and passionate football player, he would like to play the game professionally when he grows up. Last year he played for his township and did very well. If a career in sports doesn’t work out, then he has an alternate plan — to become a police officer or maybe join a SWAT team.

For the present, however, Carlos keeps busy with a variety of activities, including drawing, reading and playing video games. Friendly and outgoing, he describes himself as “cool, fresh and real.” He is fond of dogs and cats and hopes to have a pet some day. Enrolled in regular eighth-grade classes, his favorite subject is math. Carlos plans to go to college.

Carlos has the potential to be successful and reach his personal goals. However, he cannot do this alone. He needs the freedom to grow, to give and receive love and to feel that he belongs.

Carlos says he wants a family that will spend quality time with him, playing sports, shopping, camping, fishing and eating out. The family can be a mom and a dad, or just a mom or a dad. He prefers that if there are other children in the home, they are older or around his age. It would be great if the family has a pet.

Carlos would thrive with a committed, loving family that would provide structure, encouragement and guidance to help him achieve his dreams. Carlos is close to his brother and it is important that they remain in contact.

Please contact the National Adoption Center, 1500 Walnut Street, Suite 701, Philadelphia, PA 19102 if you would like more information about adopting children out of the foster care system. Call today for a free packet of information, 215-735-9988 or visit the website at www.adopt.org.