Editor's Note: Window on the Clearwater has joined the Wednesday's Child network to help spread the word about children that are waiting for families to give them the loving care that they need. Each Wednesday we will profile a different child. For more information about Wednesday's Child and how you can be involved check the web site at: http://www.idahowednesdayschild.org/.

Katrina

Ages: 10

"I live in a foster family that's good to me. We play games together. I want a family that treats me like a kid who belongs. I hope my mom and dad will treat me like their own child…like I'm a normal kid. I need a family that will take me to my ballet, piano and voice lessons. It's important that they have a belief in God and will go to church with me. I dream of a mom that likes animals and is nice, and a loving dad that is funny, a little strict, and doesn't put up with lying. I hope he is involved in Christianity.

It would be great if I had siblings my same age or older, but no babies. I really need parents who are good listeners and give me lots of attention, like doing activities with me and not just dropping me off somewhere.

My favorite subjects in school are science, health and reading. My least favorite subjects are math and writing. I need parents who will get me started [on homework problems] and encourage me as I finish my work."

Your first impression of Katrina might be deceiving. Her above-average conversational abilities might tag her as a teenager. Behind that sprinkle of freckles and dimpled chin is a beautiful pre-teen girl who still loves stuffed animals, coloring, and riding her scooter and bike. Katrina seems to exude confidence, but gets anxious in new situations. And despite her gift of gab, Katrina still struggles with making friends and knowing how to keep them.

Katrina's foster mom says she is sweet, likable, and so willing to help or just hang out during a trip to the grocery store. Such special time gives Katrina a sense of belonging and boosts her self-esteem. She enjoys swimming or just about any activity as long as it that allows her to have one-on-one time with her caregivers.

Knowledge of special needs related to trauma and how to provide safe personal boundaries will be so important to Katrina's emotional healing! Katrina has needs that might coincide with a family without children or with school-aged or teen children who could be role models. If they are emotionally secure and willing to share attention with a girl who needs a lot of it, they might also be willing to help Katrina in making friends.

Do you have a supportive network of family and friends who could provide the supervision, safe boundaries and attention Katrina needs, especially when you need solitary time or one-on-one time with another family member? If so, you might be the family Katrina's been waiting for!

Parents who are prepared to provide a supervised and safe environment could also reinforce the learning Katrina has gained in counseling. Her adoption team is especially interested in hearing from folks who recognize the value of therapy in working through challenges and strengthening the family as a support team.

Among Katrina's many strengths is her resilience. Despite some rough years and multiple placements, she has persevered in her desire for a family. Katrina is ready to build her identity on the solid foundation of being loved and respected in a family for always.

Portraits by Pomerelle Portrait Design Studios

Katrina is available for adoption through the State of Oregon. For contact information, please contact the Idaho CareLine at 1-800-926-2588.

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