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/.

Mason

Age: 12

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 love basketball. I have only been playing for a year now, but I've practiced a lot and enjoyed learning all about it. I also like soccer. I like History and Math.

I'm proud of the personal things I've accomplished lately and my sports. I'd like to at least try to become a pro player in basketball. I'd also like to stay connected with my younger brother and my grandparents.

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.

If I'm a dad someday, I would want to be there for my kids. I'd have rules like no fighting and don't hang around friends that do drugs and do your homework.

From what I've learned so far, I know that when I get frustrated or mad, I can listen to music, draw or play video games. 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 quiet 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 relates well to both female and male figures in his life. He likes shopping with his grandmother and also likes helping his grandfather in the shed and with maintaining the yard equipment. He would do well with either younger or more mature parents. He could live in or out of the state of Idaho as long as this connection is maintained. Breaking those ties would likely break Mason's trust in his new family.

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.

Portrait by Barb from Barb Bergeson Studio Gallery

To find out more about Beto (Austreberto), adoption or becoming a foster parent, email the Idaho CareLine (Please include your zip code and city.) or call 1-800-926-2588. You may be asked to provide this reference number: 30515.

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