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/.

Cassandra

Age: 13

"My name is Cassandra. I really like school, being social and learning. I play the clarinet at school. I love being with my friends, listening to music, dancing--all of it. I like cheerleading, PE, being active, and I like science this year. I have a really good teacher who makes it interesting, even though it can be hard.

I want to get a good family that cares, supports and wants me. They would show me that they love me by their expressions and the little things in life that mean so much, like hugs. I may have bumps in the road, but they wouldn't give up on me. It would mean the world to me. It would be absolutely amazing to have a family. They could go to sports events with me and encourage me to go to college.

I want to be a nurse or a vet or a social worker; someone that helps other people. To get there, I need someone who will help me with my grades and keep on me to do what I'm capable of doing. "

Profile provided by NWAE:

Cassandra is an energetic and engaging young lady who has a lovely smile. She is very outgoing and has many interests including cheerleading, an interest she's has for some time. Initially a bit shy, Cassandra soon warms to others and is very engaging and articulate. It's often like conversing with an adult because Cassandra has a tendency to be very introspective. She has a lot of potential academically and is very bright. Cassandra spends a lot of time thinking about her future life and plans.

Cassandra loves mainstream pop music and is into most things a typical teen likes. Cheerleading is a major interest. Cassandra's older sibling is involved in this also. Cassandra would like to have proper coaching and support so she can become skilled and be part of the cheerleading team in high school.

Presently, Cassandra is looking forward to getting out of the foster care system and experiencing a normal family life. She would do best in a family where she is the only child or has much older siblings. She deserves the focused attention and love of her adoptive family.

Cassandra struggles greatly with trust. She has been through many difficult and traumatic situations. She needs a special adult who can learn her story and understand her. She also needs a person who can identify her strengths and help her be the best person she can be. Cassandra is entering her teen years and is growing up fast. She needs guidance and support in sorting out the normal things teens desire, such as being accepted for who they are.

Cassandra needs involvement in positive activities that help build her self esteem. She also needs a parent who is emotionally intelligent enough to maintain calm and model it for her. Understanding of Cassandra's emotional ups and downs will help build a solid relationship with this young woman.

Cassandra needs one to one attention and she needs to feel that she is important and has someone available. She is not the type of kid who should be left to peers or dropped off places. She needs an actively engaged parent who is there, available to talk, and willing to listen. For a family like this, Cassandra would be a great daughter and they would see how amazing she is.

To find out more about Cassandra, adoption or becoming a foster parent, email the Idaho CareLine or call 1-800-926-2588. Cassandra is available for adoption through the state of Oregon.

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