family connection By Susan Grandpre  

Without an adoptive parent, Diamond may become an example of the sad reality that some children never find a permanent home.
 
The foster care system is intended to be only a temporary place for children to live, not a place for them to spend the majority of their childhood. Studies show that children who grow up in the foster care system and age out without adoption are at higher risk for crime, drug addiction and other adversities. Unfortunately, the odds are not in Diamond’s favor.
 
She has been in foster care for almost 10 years, entering the system in 1999 due to abuse and neglect. She was removed from her biological home at just 7 years old.
 
Now 16, Diamond is still waiting for a permanent home. She loves the “girly things” like getting her hair and nails done. She adores shopping and would be happy if she could shop every day. She enjoys laughing and having fun. Dressing up for special occasions is one of Diamond’s favorite activities.
 
Diamond used to sing in the church choir and is interested in doing so again. She loves attending church services and hopes that she will be able to continue to go to church with an adoptive family.
 
We have all heard a “contagious laugh” and Jennifer Albertson with Richmond Department of Social Services says, “Diamond possesses one of those laughs that originates deep in the belly and brings a smile to the faces of all who hear her.”
 
This 10th-grader is not without her struggles in day-to-day life. She currently resides in a group home. In school, she has had a hard time academically, but with support and encouragement will perform well.
 
Getting along with her peers is not always easy for Diamond. She can be impulsive and occasionally behave defiantly with figures of authority. However, she complies with chores and other responsibilities when prompted. Diamond excels when receiving one-on-one attention.
 
Albertson feels that “Diamond needs someone to adopt her who will be patient, yet firm.” She will benefit from a parent who will provide structure. This adoptive parent must help her learn to trust and also help her to grieve her past losses.
 
Diamond longs for a mother and all the individual attention a mother can provide. For more information, contact Jennifer Albertson at (804) 646-0373.
 

Susan Grandpre earned a B.A. in English from James Madison University and has been a freelance writer for nine years. She lives in Richmond with her husband and three children.

Archives:

Pick up your copy of Richmond Parents Monthly available at over 400 area locations!