GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — In addition to enjoying typical teen things, Isabella looks to the future. She wants to join the military when she gets older. Isabella dreams of visiting Malibu, Calif., but not to visit millionaire celebrities’ homes. “I like warm weather and swimming,” Isabella says.
She also likes cooking, going camping, playing volleyball, making crafts and playing board games. Isabella likes going on walks, playing on her tablet, listening to music and reading scripture. Her faith is important to Isabella and in times of trouble, she seeks the solace of self-reflection.
“She writes out goals for the week and has a gratitude list, thoughtfully assessing where she has succeeded and where she needs to work on her goals,” says Isabella’s mentor. On her list of favorites, Isabella includes Mexican cuisine for food, black for color and panda for bear. On the weekends, her favorite things to do are spend time with friends and go shopping and to the movies.
Her mentor says Isabella “loves everything pineapple: food, drinks, quotes and clothing with pineapples on it.” She is described as a sweet, engaging, compassionate and outgoing girl with a “silly sense of humor,” says her worker. “Isabella enjoys making people laugh, and she also enjoys helping others.”
Her mentor says that Isabella should fit in well with a future forever family. “A loving family who is patient with her initial shyness will discover a sweet teenager who will engage with the family and become a joy to spend time with!” she says.
Due to the trauma she experienced, Isabella can struggle at times, but she receives services to help her manage her feelings. She would benefit from help to stay focused on her schoolwork.
Isabella would do best with a mom and dad or two female parents. However, a single-female parent with no other children would be considered. Her new parent or parent must be able to provide the one-on-one attention Isabella requires. Her new parent or parent must be experienced and knowledgeable of the impact of trauma on a child. Her new forever family must be strong advocates for the services that will help Isabella function at her best. In addition, Isabella would do best as the youngest child in her new forever family, but her worker stresses that Isabella enjoys interacting with other youth. Finally, the family must be open to letting Isabella maintain her sibling relationships.
For more information: 800-589-MARE (6273) or visit: www.mare.org.
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