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.icwrtc.org/wednesdays-child-1.

Mason

Age: 16

Meet Mason, future basketball star! He's ready for a single parent or couple that will be there to share all the highs and lows of his life. This athletic boy wants to join a family with parents who are present and actively engaged in their child's life.

"My name is Mason and I sleep, eat, and think about basketball. I also love playing basketball. I have only been playing for about three years now, but I practice almost everyday for about two or three hours. I'd like to play at the college level one day. I'd like to play for the Golden State Warriors or maybe Duke. My dream would be to go to an NBA game, maybe watch Stephen Curry or Derrick Rose play. My favorite subjects in school are P.E. and History. I dislike Science. I am not a Science type of guy. I enjoy reading; sometimes I read before bed. I finished The Hunger Games series. I've seen all the movies, except for the last movie.

I have a few people I'd like to stay connected with, mainly my grandparents and my younger brother. It doesn't matter to me if I have a mom, dad or siblings. I just want a family who isn't going to give up on me. I'd also like a family who's into sports and physical education. I'd be ok if they had a cat. I like dogs too, but only if they don't lick my face off.

I think I could get along with a mom that is present in her kid's lives. Having good food in the house, not using drugs or abusing, setting a good example, actually wanting to be there and caring. I would like a dad that is actually there too; going to my games and stuff.

When I'm upset, I need a family that can give me space. From what I've learned so far, I know that when I get frustrated or mad, I can listen to music, draw or go for a walk. It gets my mind off what I was mad about and helps me get in a better place."

According to Mason's adoption caseworker, this teen would do well with parents who could support him at school, at sports activities and with whatever services he might need to access in his community. It would be great if they have flexible hours at home/work and can be actively involved in his education. He missed a lot of school and has valiantly worked to catch up. He's mostly accomplished that goal and is nearly at grade level. He really wants parents who will be his support team in going on to college and maybe even earning a sports scholarship.

Mason would do well in a home with good structure and the secure boundaries that seem to go well with parents who are involved in their children's day-to-day activities. He would do well as an only child or with older siblings who are good role models. If they like to shoot hoops when homework or chores are done--even better!

Mason needs patient folks who will give him the time needed to bond and to learn good social skills. He has great insight and has shown an amazing ability to thrive within a dependable routine. Your presence and acceptance of Mason, even when he's struggling emotionally, will go a long way toward building interdependence within your active family. For the right family, Mason could share his courage, his desire to belong and his likable personality.

For more information on the Wednesday s Child Program in Idaho please visit, http://idahowednesdayschild.org/ or contact Shannon Foust via email, sfoust@ewu.edu, or cell 208.488.8989 if you have specific questions.

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