It's been bittersweet for brothers Marco and Alex to see their two younger siblings adopted. As hard as the county tries, they can't always keep siblings together. And while the boys are happy for their siblings, they too would like a forever family.
In a friendly game of tackle, I couldn't help but notice how nine-year-old Marco made sure he always went down first, cushioning the fall for his six-year-old brother Alex. Marco is a good big brother, who steps in to help with the types of things a parent normally does, such as homework.
But Marco needs someone he can turn to, as well. And, what these boys both deserve are parents to guide them and love them. Alex is going to be a first grader this fall, and Marco is entering the fifth grade.
"Marco also excels in school, I think he's going to be an honor student when he goes to higher grades," said Protective Services Worker, Idaliz Rodgers. "And Alex he's just starting school, and he needs a lot of structure, but he loves being out there and talking to the teacher and being kind of ‘my classmate didn't want to do, but I did it,' just kind of comparing himself so that's really good."
Marco and Alex are certainly creative and they're also pretty comical - a simple wink can spark some smiles.
"They're very playful, they're outgoing. I think they just, if you keep them outdoors all day, that's all that they want," Rodgers continued.
Marco and Alex have a younger brother and sister, ages four and five, who have already been placed with forever family. And now, these boys are hoping it's their turn to find a permanent, loving home.
"And so we're hoping that it happens quickly, so that the families can get to know each other and they feel like part of the family," explained Rodgers.
The goal is to find a family for Marco and Alex that is willing to continue the relationship the boys have with their younger siblings.
"They would do well anywhere. Marco has always been the oldest, if that could happen that would be great, but I think they are such good kids, I think they would do well in any home, with more kids or less kids, they'll just be, they'll fit right in," noted Rodgers.
If you're interested in adopting or becoming a foster family, call 1-877-I-ADOPT-U.
To meet other children in foster care and discover how you can help restore their hope, please click here.
News 8 would also like to thank photographer Huy Nguyen for taking the photographs you saw in this story.
