Wednesday's Child: 11-Year-Old Manny

BOSTON (CBS) - Emmanuel, or "Manny," is an 11-year-old young man of Hispanic descent who describes himself as "nice, happy, exciting to play with, and funny." Whether it is swinging on swings, riding his bike, playing imaginary games or just being around people, Manny approaches life with a friendly smile.

Full of spunk, Manny likes to stay busy. He has well-rounded interests that include music, cars, toys, clothes, watching cartoons and playing outside. He also enjoys performing for others. During quieter times, Manny likes to tap into his imagination through drawing.

Manny is doing well in his residential program. He is extremely respectful and polite and counts the adults in his life as being very important to him. He also attends school at his program and is benefiting from the services that are provided for him. His favorite subjects include science and geometry. With an eye on his future, Manny has set many goals for himself. He would like to either be a singer, a policeman, a firefighter, a pro-wrestler, or a personal assistant when he grows up.

Legally free for adoption, Manny would do well in a two-parent family, with or without older children. The ideal family would be able to advocate on behalf of Manny to ensure that he continues to receive the services he needs. Openness to aiding Manny with maintaining birth family contact would also be necessary. Manny has an infectious smile and a resilient attitude that would be refreshing to a family that is willing to offer him the stability and attention of a permanent home.

To learn more about Manny, and about adoption from foster care, call the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE) at 617-54-ADOPT (617-542-3678) or visit www.MAREinc.org.The sooner you call, the sooner a waiting child will have "a permanent place to call home."