We met Samie and her case worker, Gail Diehl, in downtown Springfield , at the Wildish Theatre. We'd heard Samie liked acting.

John Muellner, a local director thought we'd meet them there and give Samie a little introduction. Samie has done some acting, but with no formal instruction.

John's going to be directing the upcoming production of "Alice in Wonderland" for the Rose Children's Theatre.

He has worked with young actors and knew how to get some 'stuff' out of Samie.

Samie is typically shy but she was able to forget about that and show John what she had.

Samie is twelve and in the 7th grade. She has a lot of interests including horses, drawing and acting.

Samie's been in foster care for five years. She knows exactly the kind of forever family she wants. Samie says, "Not just like in the country, but in the city, go to a public school and I want to have a mom and a dad....yeah."

"She does have a lot of creativity so a family that's interested in arts and activities like basketball, she's also very athletic and enjoys running and physical activity.", says Gail Diehl.

Samie has had some big disappointments in her life, but she's making strides and is working on turning things around, one step at a time.

To learn more about Samie, call 954-9626

This month's Heart Gallery locations are at the Valley River Center, The Gateway Mall, The Oakway Center, Hollywood Video, The Eugene Airport, Cottage Grove Community Center and the Friendly Street Market. 

Special thanks to Skip Hubbard at the Wildish Theatre and Director, John Muellner.