A Child is Waiting: August Makes Cars -- and Everything -- Better

By Honey Murray

If you’re hoping to meet seventeen-year-old August, a very likely place to find her would be under the hood of a car or truck that needs repair.

“My Grandpa, who passed away, taught me how to work on cars,” August says. “I can change a flat tire (and find the hole in it), change the oil, fix brakes…I’d like to be a mechanic, and I’d love to be with a family that likes cars.”

“August is an extremely special teen,” says her worker. “She has a sunshine smile, she spreads joy, and she is always cheerful, bubbly and determined, despite everything she’s been through. She truly lights up a room!”

Her worker continues, “She’s so unlike other teens, and even other foster kids. Many foster teens are worn down by not being adopted, but August is staying strong and confident. And, instead of being an angry or disconnected teenager, August is positive and resilient, eager to help. She is an incredible kid.”

August enjoys school, especially mathematics, and hopes to play basketball this year – which she loves.

“I love sports,” she says. “And I also like doing puzzles, writing in my journal, listening to country music, crocheting, and being with friends.”

“I’d love to live in the country, with a family with pets,” says August.

“And,” she laughs, “I’d like to be an only child.”

Her workers say that August would do best in a home where the parent or parents have learned about the impact of trauma on a child and who would be strong advocates for the services which are helping her to thrive.

“She would also benefit from a nearby mentor who could regularly spend one-on-one time with her – and maybe work on cars with her – especially since the loss of her grandfather,” her worker states.

“The words that comes to mind when I think of a family are ‘trust, loyalty, and communication,’” August says. “A family would care for me, have an open mind and listen to me, and make me feel like I belong.”

“I prefer to have a family that gets along with each other – and has a ‘family night,’” she says. “Have you ever had a ‘family night’?”

“…I’m a very cheerful person. I don’t like to judge people, of their pasts and stuff. And,” August shares, “I’m very positive. I’d be able to bring a negative atmosphere back to positive!”

For more information about adopting, fostering, or mentoring, contact Orchards Children’s Services of Southfield at 855-694-7301, or visit www.orchards.org.