Canyon Acres Children and Family Successes…

A Success Story of Canyon Acres Foster Care & Adoption Programs

Ashley

Ashley was 13 years old when a Canyon Acres Wraparound Team began working with her and her family. As a new teenager, Ashley was battling with self-esteem issues, and with her self-identity as a young woman. Ashley was also withdrawn and non-trusting due to past family trauma. Her mother neglected both Ashley’s physical and emotional needs. Ashley had a hard time letting others in and was often overlooked within the family dynamics. Ashley’s social skills suffered and she was unable to relate to other girls her own age.

The Wraparound Team assigned Ashley a Youth Partner, a caring staff member who would work one-on-one with Ashley to help her recognize and overcome her struggles. The Youth Partner also ensured that Ashley’s needs were being articulated and that she was given the proper attention she so desperately needed. In an effort to boost Ashley’s self-image and as part of her treatment plan, the Wraparound Team arranged for Ashley to experience a hair and beauty make-over. Almost immediately following the make-over, the Wraparound Team noticed a shift in Ashley’s self-esteem. Ashley began to ask her mom for more feminine clothing and her hygiene improved dramatically. With increased self-confidence, she began to form positive peer relationships. She even became involved in some school clubs.

Today, Ashley has blossomed into a young woman full of self-worth. Her grades have improved, and, for the first time, Ashley likes going to school. All of her improvements have helped family relationships too. Ashley’s mother has made many positive changes as well. She has learned how to appropriately communicate her love for her children and has become more emotionally and physically available to meet their needs. Ashley and her family are currently living out their family vision and have achieved their important therapy goals.

Names have been changed to protect confidentiality.