Austin, born in 1997, is a handsome, blond-haired, hazel-eyed boy. He enjoys playing video games, watching movies and playing outside. He is a healthy child with a sense of humor.

Austin loves to eat at Chinese restaurants where he uses his manners and he likes to do hands-on activities. Austin would do well with a family that shares his interest in “tinkering around,” so that Austin can learn from them.

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

Austin needs a family that will bring out the best in him. 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 that will be committed to him throughout his life.

Austin is one of 147 children in Maine Department of Health and Human Services care who are seeking an adoptive family. 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 Maine children in care. For information about children available for adoption, contact A Family for ME toll free at 877-505-0545 or visit www.AFamilyForMe.org and the gallery of photographs of some of the children awaiting a forever family.