Introduction

Christian is a funny, bubbly, and kindhearted young woman who makes friends wherever she goes. She is smart and resourceful, always ready to strike up a conversation and bring joy to those around her. Christian is also very self-aware, once saying, “I’m a good listener, and if you want my attention, just ask for it kindly. I’m not a bad kid.” Her empathy shines in everyday moments, asking her peers if they’ve eaten, wishing others a safe day, or checking in to make sure someone is okay. She’s incredibly caring and makes people feel seen and valued. Christian is truly one of a kind. She’ll make you laugh, introduce you to good music, and leave you smiling every time.

Christian is very artistic, athletic, and creative. She enjoys a variety of sports, with basketball being her favorite. She previously played on her school’s basketball team and is looking forward to joining the team again this semester at her new school. In addition to her athletic abilities, Christian is also very talented with hair and beauty. She is an experienced hair braider and enjoys styling her own nails, lashes, and hair. She is always grateful when she receives hair products, clothing, or other essentials, as she takes pride in caring for her appearance. Christian also has a love for reading, especially the Bible, which provides her with comfort and inspiration. She enjoys exploring different foods and counts burgers, fries, and pizza among her favorites.

Christian is placed in a residential program where she attends school and has been thriving academically and socially. Since the beginning of this school year, her grades have improved significantly, and she is currently earning A’s and B’s. This achievement is especially meaningful, as she has previously struggled in school. She takes her education seriously, motivated by her long-term goal of attending Harvard University and majoring in Biology. In particular, Christian has developed a strong interest in science and continues to enjoy reading in her free time. She is also interested in joining after-school clubs and activities to further engage with her school community. She is well-known among her peers and staff for her friendly and outgoing nature, and she has built many positive connections at school. Christian has a strong and meaningful bond with her siblings. These relationships are very important to her, and continuing these connections will provide her with comfort, stability, and a sense of belonging as she needs.

Christian would benefit from a loving, caring, and understanding foster parent. She describes herself as a “good kid,” and as her adoption social worker wholeheartedly agrees. Christian deserves a pre-adoptive parent who will be nurturing, supportive, and compassionate toward her needs. Ideal families will have experience with trauma-informed care and therapeutic parenting and be open to utilizing and supporting therapeutic services as needed. Christian is of African American descent, and it is essential that her adoptive family not only honor but actively celebrate her cultural identity. Her family should provide positive role models, engage in open and age-appropriate conversations about race, racism, and discrimination, and create opportunities that foster pride and a strong sense of belonging. 

Last Updated: 10/01/2024