Editor's Note: Window on the Clearwater has joined the Wednesday's Child network to help spread the word about children that are waiting for families to give them the loving care that they need. Each Wednesday we will profile a different child. For more information about Wednesday's Child and how you can be involved check the web site at: http://www.idahowednesdayschild.org/.

AJ

Age: 16

"Hi, I'm AJ. My two favorite things to do are swim and play video games. I also like riding my bike, drawing, and doing arts and crafts. I love shopping for things at Walmart.

I hope to go swimming, camping, fishing, hiking and hunting with my family. But even more important than that, I want to be in a family where I know all my needs will be met--like food and the things that families do for each other. I think the most important things in a family are trust, friendship and love.

I hope I can stay connected with my half-sister, my aunt, my cousins and my biological father and his wife. I also have a friend who was once my teacher and she still stays in touch and visits me.

I'd like parents who won't give up on me if I'm having a bad day. If I'm upset, they could ask me to take some time to calm down and I can talk to them later when I'm ready. That would mean a lot to me.

One thing I'd like to do that I've never done is go ice fishing. I'd also like to go snowmobiling. For the past two summers, I've been in a swim club. My favorite subject at school is Math. Reading - not so much. That's hard for me.

I like to listen to Rock music. I like dogs best. In fact, I hope to have a dog of my own that can live in the house, either a big dog or a mini schnauzer."

AJ's caseworker is looking for an emotionally mature adoptive couple or individual with above-average knowledge and experience with childhood trauma. AJ does extremely well in a controlled, structured environment and with lots of love and attention from patient caregivers. She said, "AJ is just a kind, giving kid--really thoughtful. He has had lots of ups and downs in his life, but he's really resilient. A family that has minimal emotional conflict and stress could help AJ deal with his responses to change, problem-solving and frustration."

One possible way his family could help AJ trust is to recognize his connection to relatives and to a mentor. It's possible that he could have some form of contact with family members living in southern Idaho. This could be arranged through his caseworker. AJ craves attention. While it isn't a requirement, being an only child could ensure a generous portion for this deserving teen. He at least needs parents who will give him plenty of one-on-one time and the attention that he's been missing in a family. AJ is currently living in a group situation. He dreams of a home where there's less drama, more peace.

Currently on an Individual Educational Plan for ADHD and learning difficulties, AJ could benefit from educational allies who will help him work through reading challenges. He thrives on encouragement and building through areas of strength.

Do you respond to challenges with calm determination and patience? As AJ overcomes past discouragements and is assured of stability within a family, his life could be very different. "Just Do It." Call the Idaho CareLine at 2-1-1 and let them know whether or not you have a current home study. They will put you in touch with AJ's adoption recruiter.

Portrait by Matt Green Photography

To find out more about AJ, adoption or becoming a foster parent, email the Idaho CareLine (Please include your zip code and city.) or call 1-800-926-2588. In Idaho you can dial 2-1-1. You may be asked to provide this reference number: 30388.

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