Child in need

Yes, there is a child in need. In need of your time and friendship. If you feel that you would like to do something to help, please read on.

Most of the kids in Kinship Partners are there because the adults in their lives do not have the extra time to give individual attention to them or be the role model they need. Very few of the children are behavior problems, which is really quite heartening in light of some of the troubles they've had in their short lives. Most really "bloom" when matched with a Kinship Partner adult volunteer.

Rhonda was one of these bloomers. Placed in foster care with her older sister, she had become sullen and withdrawn. Both girls enrolled in Kinship Partners, and soon were matched with a volunteer.

Rhonda started smiling a lot more and warmed up to her foster parents, as well. She really looked forward to her weekly visits with Patricia, her Kinship Partner. She especially enjoyed their nature hikes and bike rides on the Paul Bunyan Trail. This was her time to relax, laugh and renew.

All was going well until the news came of a job transfer for Patricia's husband. The move took them out of state, and Patricia out of Rhonda's life.

Here's where you come in. Rhonda is waiting for a new partner. Sad, but not discouraged after Patricia's move, she still believes that having a Kinship Partner is a good thing. It appears Rhonda is learning to have a positive sense of self-worth. Help to keep it going by becoming Rhonda's new partner! It's remarkable what just an hour or two together each week can do. Rhonda won't expect you to spend lots of money on her. In fact, most of her favorite things to do involve the outdoors. She likes swimming, bike rides, going on walks, and would like to try camping and canoeing.

To become Rhonda's partner, or to learn about the other kids waiting to be matched, please call 829-4606 in Brainerd, 546-7308 in Crosby, or 568-4015 in Pequot Lakes. You can also check our web site at kinship@brainerd.net for program information.