A Success Story...

During the past year, Kinship has served over 90 children in therapeutic foster care, more than 450 families through preventative services, and 85 persons in chemical dependency recovery. One thing is common among them. Despite their challenges, these children still have dreams, parents have hopes, and the young men in recovery have aspirations for their future.

Meet Misty and her foster parents. Jim and Sue Mix

A success story from Kinship's Therapeutic Foster Family Program

Misty recently graduated from Arkport High School with Honors. Her awards included the Suzuki Award, a Bethesda Foundation Award for Academic Achievement, the Hornell Concern for Youth Award, and the Tucker Ross Award for Citizenship.

Due to multiple tragedies her family experienced, Misty was unable to get the care she needed as a child. Blaming herself for these tragedies, Misty suffered from severe depression and was failing out of school. She withdrew from family, teachers and friends, exhibiting a number of destructive behaviors. Jim Mix says that with a foundation of faith and open continuous8s communication, they have become a close, happy, supportive family who is 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 in the family and earns what they have,” she says. For Misty, having the Mixes there, listening and talking to her about life struggles, matters most. She agrees that the discipline has given her a better understanding of life and builds her self-confidence. Sue encourages her to finish what she starts never lets her procrastinate or give up. Misty is currently attending 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 and she looks forward to increasing her course load to 15 ½ credit hours next semester. Misty manages her own checking account, purchased her own car and pays 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 and the customers lover her; she has perfect attendance, is very conscientious and responsible and frequently sacrifices her own personal plans to come in and cover for others.

Misty says she realizes the value of the gift sh has been given: 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 and confidence; the positive outlook on life, and the strength and ability to make good choice and face life challenges. She wants to use these gifts to help others.

Misty and the Mixes ask for your support of the programs Kinship provides for local children in need. You can make sure more of these children become success stories like Misty by responding to this special Holiday Appeal.