Part of the Family

Stormi is settling in nicely. She was only supposed to stay temporarily with Mattie and Alex before she moved on. But she grew to like their home. They also liked her staying there. She sings in the church choir and participates in school activities while maintaining an A/B average. So when talk of adoption started, Mattie, Alex and Stormi considered making the foster arrangement permanent.

“Stormi is an exceptionally intelligent, well-mannered girl,” Mattie said. “She’s doing well in school, and we’re proud she’s become part of the family.”

The adoption became official in August.

“Foster parents and adoptive parents are needed so much now,” said Shelley Richards, Youth Villages adoption specialist. “Mattie, Alex and Stormi are amazing people, and Stormi has thrived in this home. Her physical, emotional and spiritual needs are being met, and we’re glad it will continue on a permanent basis.”

She Can Make Her Mom Cry

Mersediez and her mom, Michelle, finally have the relationship they’ve always wanted. They laugh, play board games, roll each other’s hair and, most importantly, they talk. But just a few years ago, things were very different.

Mersediez was failing school, was often suspended and ran away from home regularly. Seeking help, Michelle learned about Youth Villages. Youth Villages Clinical Supervisor Tiffany Ross helped mom find safer housing and get the resources she needed. She worked with Mersediez on her anger and future goals. As Mersediez opened up, her grades shot up. She now makes the honor roll and leads her high school band. She hopes to get a band scholarship for college. Sometimes, Mersediez plays the flute for her mom. She plays so beautifully, it can make her mom cry.

“She is a totally different child,” her mom said. “I am so proud of my little girl.”

Laurissa Has a Friend

Linda Burdett remembers never having anyone attend her softball games.

Her father, who served in the Air Force, spent much time away from home. Her mother, she later found out, was struggling with bipolar disorder.

“I know what it feels like to be on your own,” she said.

Two years ago, Linda became a mentor through Tennessee

Gov. Phil Bredesen’s Mentoring Initiative, administered by Youth Villages. She was matched with 13-year-old Laurissa.

Linda and Laurissa spend a lot of time talking. They also show Linda’s dogs at dog shows and participate in competition dog mock hunts. Most importantly, Linda makes sure Laurissa knows she will never be on her own.

“I always tell her that no matter what, I am here for her,” Linda said. “She can always count on me.”