Ben has been hosted with Kindred Connections for eight months now, and he is thriving. Ben was adopted internationally two years ago at the age of 14. Ben lived in an orphanage (called a foundation), he lived in a foster home, and then back to the foundation when he was older. Ben has a great disposition full of jokes, inquiring questions, lively conversations and pestering those he loves most. His life has been one of joy, hardship, and unfortunately trauma. Can you imagine moving to a different country, joining a new family, and having all the expectations that school, family and society places when you are just 14 years old? Add in trauma and family disruption from your home country…that is a lot on a young man whose brain isn’t fully developed.
Trauma is a beast, and it will disrupt relationships, emotions, and reactions (to name a few). Ben’s adoptive family were not able to attend to Ben’s needs and a break in the relationship brought Ben and his adoptive Mom to Kindred Connections. Through meetings, and careful consideration KC staff reached out to a wonderful Host Family about hosting Ben for nine months. This Host Family said yes after hearing the need and praying about the opportunity. Host Dad and Host Mom have embraced Ben as a son and they have given Ben the support and encouragement he needed, along with a fresh start. Ben is enjoying the new community he is in, he has a job, he is playing soccer and enjoys attending YoungLife. Ben has asked to stay longer, and Host parents have happily agreed. He will finish High School and graduate with friends.
Recently Ben needed a bike to ride to work, friends houses, and school. He saved up some money but still needed about $150. Kindred Connections put a request out to volunteers, and within an hour had the complete amount. Ben is riding his bike to activities, saving his family time, and now has the freedom and responsibility to get himself to work and school.
The kindness of volunteers never ceases to amaze us. They hear a story and respond to the need. Whether hosting and embracing a hurting teen, or donating money to help fund a need, kind KC volunteers just give and give.
We thank these volunteers from the bottom of our hearts!