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/.

Brittany

Age: 14

"My name is Brittany and there are a lot of things to know about me. When I was little, I wanted to be a photographer. I still really enjoy it and I hope it's something I can do to make some extra money one day. I'm not sure if I want photography to be my main career, because I also really want to be a speech pathologist and audiologist. If I can do both, I'll be happy.

I love to play softball. I've played since I was young, usually first or third base, sometimes pitcher or outfield. I like school because I get to see my friends, but it's kind of boring when I feel like I'm not being challenged. English is probably my strongest subject, and I do pretty well at other subjects when I put effort into them.

I like to do anything creative. I've been in choir since I was little and love to sing. I like art, photography, and nearly anything that lets me be creative. Creative expression is my strength. I also love horses. If I could be adopted by a family with horses, that would be great . . . or at least by a family that will allow me ride horses.

I'm excited to do Wednesday's Child, but nervous. I'm worried that it's not going to work out. But, I really want a mom. I've always wanted that bond between a mother and a daughter, because I've never had that. I want her to be my best friend. Being an only child would be cool, but I would definitely be fine with younger kids in my home. I love little kids. My family has to have a sense of humor. They need to know how to have fun, but still have rules. I don't want my family to feel like they need to impress other people. They just need to be themselves. Most importantly, I want a family that emphasizes the importance of family values. I'd like to stay here in the area, but if it means finding the right family, I'll move anywhere."

Brittany is an extremely creative young woman. She enjoys success with art projects, writing, singing, and photography. She enjoys her friendships and is liked by a lot of people. Brittany has many strengths and needs a family who will be supportive of her activities and hobbies, which will help her flourish in a new, permanent home. She comes from a Christian background and would like to maintain those ties. In addition, contact with her birth family is desired and may help in the transition.

Brittany's adoption team is looking for a traditional two-parent family that can provide good role-modeling for Brittany, so that she can see what a normal, healthy family looks like. She would do best as the oldest sibling or only child. Brittany loves animals of all kinds. Thus, pets would certainly be a bonus. Parents should have strong boundaries, be consistent when handling discipline, and possess the ability to provide a high level of attention and supervision to Brittany.

This wonderful young lady has a great deal to offer to the right family. Brittany needs to feel that she can express herself to nonjudgmental parents who will listen to her thoughts and feelings. Brittany has suffered many traumas over the years and really needs parents who can be patient with her as she processes her emotions. As the transition to permanency takes place, parents will need to be able to access community resources, such as counseling, psycho-social rehabilitative services, medication management, and possibly provide support through Brittany's mentor program.

Brittany is a beautiful, well-spoken teenager with a great deal of potential. What she needs most is a strong family with parents who will provide the nurturing needed to guide her to adulthood. If you can be that support for Brittany, please call the Idaho CareLine.

Portraits by Barb from Barb Bergeson Studio Gallery

To find out more about Andy, adoption or becoming a foster parent, email the Idaho CareLine or call 1-800-926-2588. In Idaho you can dial 2-1-1. You may be asked to provide this reference number: 30406.You may be asked to provide this reference number: 30381.

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