Makenna (Kenna) is an independent, caring and loyal 14-year-old who is in ninth grade. She loves trying new sports and staying active by doing boxing, wrestling and flag football. In school, Kenna enjoys all subjects but specifically loves math. She participates in tech crew and other extracurricular activities.
Outside of school, Kenna loves spending time with her friends and brothers. Listening to music and shopping also brings her joy. For Kenna, an ideal family day would include a day mixed with activity and relaxation. She would enjoy getting her hair done, going out to eat at one of her favorite restaurants, and ending the day relaxing at home watching a movie.
Kenna would thrive in any family structure. She would do best to stay in the metro area and would be okay with pets and other kids in the home. However, she would prefer to have other kids in the home be above five years old. “Kenna values her freedom, so a family that feels comfortable with her independence and will continue to help her gain independent living skills would be best,” said child specific recruiter (CSR) Hayley. “Kenna would need a home that provides her with flexibility, understanding and acceptance.”
Kenna does have two younger brothers, and it is important to her to maintain a relationship with them. It is also important to her that she maintains relationships with some of her close friends and extended family.
“The best way a future family can support Kenna is them focusing on getting to really know her,” said Hayley. “It’s important that the family see how she compliments their life, rather than making her fit in.” A family would also need to be willing to continue any resources needed to help Kenna grow into who she wants to be. It is also important that a family understand that she may not respond well to traditional parenting relationship dynamics.
“Kenna is a very strong advocate for herself, which is a really big strength for someone who has been through a lot,” says Hayley. “It is important she has support from the people in her life to guide her through to adulthood.”
Details to Note
Due to contracts with the Minnesota Department of Human Services, the cost of adopting a child from Minnesota foster care is virtually free to families.
Learn More About Makenna
If you would like to learn more about Makenna, please contact Hayley Persons at [email protected] or at 651.255.2236. Families may have to provide certain documentation to receive full information.
