Many people like to complain about their families, especially around the holidays or when political viewpoints don’t match up. Sure, we can’t pick our family members, and sure, they can be frustrating at times (like the holidays or weddings), but deep down, we’re glad that even the most difficult family members are part of our family. We really do love them.

Then there are the family members we often take for granted. For example, if you grew up in a home with two loving parents and maybe a sibling or two, you probably never thought too much about your family being there for you. They may not have shown up at every game or recital, but you knew they loved you, and you knew they supported you.

Not everyone has that. When kids in the foster care system turn 18, they age out of the system and lose their chance of being adopted. They lose all hope of having loving parents and siblings who will be there for them and care for them. They’re all alone.

Haven is 17-years-old, but he’ll turn 18 in October, 2019. While many teenagers look forward to their birthday, Haven isn’t exactly looking forward to his. He’s been in the foster care system for the past 5 years, since he was 12 years old, and if he doesn’t get adopted before his birthday, he ages out of the foster care system.

He is desperately hoping to find a forever family before time runs out. His standards aren’t very high either. He says he wants “anyone that will take me.” He’s just looking for a loving family.

Currently, Haven lives in a shelter along with 4 other children. He’s not happy living there. He wants more independence. He hopes to get his driving permit soon. That will give him a little bit more of the independence he seeks.

He’s also very ambitious. He’s involved in Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. Someday he wants to join the military and be part of something bigger than himself. He wants to serve his country.

Haven recently got a tour of the Army National Guard. He even got a few gifts, which is a rare treat for him. As a foster kid, he doesn’t get gifts very often. He also got the chance to sit in a Hummer.

Watch the video below to learn more about Haven and his search for a family.

If you would like to know more about adopting Haven, please call Tom Peterson at (405) 325-9398.