TYLER/SMITH COUNTY (KYTX) - A peaceful afternoon spent fishing is the perfect setting for 11-year-old Nathaniel, or Nate as he likes to be called.
"His dream is to be out in the country on a farm. He wants to learn how to ride horses and just enjoy being outdoors," said Lori Sutton-White, his caseworker with Grace Manor in Tyler.
Nate added, "I want there to be sheep, roosters, hens, cows and horses."
This young boy also enjoys sports, video games and swimming. He does well in school and is entering the 6th-grade.
Lori said, "He's really a bright kid. He loves to read. He loves to learn about things. He wants to know how it works."
Although not his favorite activity, he does do his chores around his foster home. "Do the dishes, clean my room, make my bed and that's all."
After spending time in foster care, Nate is looking forward to a family of his own, but it will take him some time to trust again. "Just the uncertainty of whether adults can be trusted I think is something he'll need help on."
While casting his line in the water Nate said, "I would like a family to not get mad at me very easily. People who would care for me and that go to church."
Lori said, "Church is important to him. He likes the social activities that they do and he's great at memorizing Bible verses."
This young boy needs stability and consistency to help him thrive. "Nate really does do well in a very structured environment. So a family needs to understand the behaviors that he's experienced as a result of the trauma he experienced before he came into foster care as a young child. He's working through those issues but he will still need care just to make him feel secure," said Lori.
Nate says he will bring a family "happiness." But most of all he wants "people that would love me back."
To learn more about Nate, join Gillian Sheridan for her "Children are a Gift" report, Tuesday night on CBS 19 Ten @ 10. You can also find information on www.CBS19.tv and www.tylerpaper.com. To inquire about an East Texas child waiting to be adopted call 903-533-4109.
