An Excerpt From Kinship Chronicle Spring 2005

A Local Success Story...

Meet Misty and her foster parents, Jim and Sue Mix.
A Success story from Kinship's Therapeutic Foster Family Program

Misty recently graduated from High School with Honors. She received the Suzuki Award, Bethesda Foundation Award for academic achievement, Concern for Youth Award, and the Tucker Rose Award for Citizenship.

Due to multiple tragedies the family experienced, Misty did not receive the care she needed as a child. Blaming herself for these tragedies, Misty struggled with severe depression, was failing out of school and withdrew from family, teachers and friends, exhibiting a number of destructive behaviors.

Jim Mix says, with a foundation of faith and open, continuous communications; they have become a close, happy, supportive family, always there for each other. “Misty has grown in her ability to successfully overcome challenges, all she needed was some structure.” Sue Mix puts a premium on communication and discipline; “Misty no longer internalizes but talks issues out and each child takes on responsibilities int eh family, earning what they have”. For Misty, having the Mix's there, listening and talking to you about life struggles, matters most. She agrees the discipline gives her a better understanding of life and builds her self-confidence. Sue encourages her to finish what she starts and never lets her procrastinate or give up.

Misty now attends Corning Community College full-time and works at Cy's grocery store part-time. Her grades are all at the “A” or high “B” average. Misty manages her own checking account, purchased her own car and pays for her own auto insurance. John Hedges, Misty's manager at Cy's, says she is one of the most exceptional youth employees he has ever had the pleasure of managing. Her work is excellent; she has perfect attendance, is very conscientious, responsible, the customers love her, and she frequently sacrifices her own personal plants to come in and cover for others.

Misty says she realizes the value of the gifts she has been give; a chance to experience childhood, the love, care, support, and guidance of a family and all that comes with growing up healthy; the self-discipline, confidence, positive outlook on life, the strength and ability to make good choices and face life challenges. She wants to use these gifts to help others.