Three years ago, nine-year-old Scotty entered foster care after being removed from a dangerous environment. First he was placed with extended family, but the arrangement was short-lived. Over the next two years, Scotty moved between several homes, none of which were able to address his trauma-related challenges.  He felt unwanted and misunderstood. His grades and school attendance suffered, and he was often depressed.

In 2022, Scotty was referred to Rachael, a social worker at Stanford Sierra Youth & Families. Rachael worked closely with Scotty, listening to him and earning his trust. Recognizing the depth of Scotty’s challenges, Rachael connected him with a therapist who specialized in working with children who’ve endured trauma. In therapy, Scotty began to process what he’d been through, understand his feelings, and manage his emotions in a way that empowered him and promoted his healing.

As Scotty’s resilience grew, Rachael noticed his interest in art.  It was a positive outlet for him. Rachael encouraged him to join an after-school art program, where he developed his talent, made friends, and gained confidence in himself. His grades also improved.  For the first time in years, Scotty imagined a future he could look forward to, one with a family he could call his own.

Rachael began searching for a forever family for Scotty and found the Robinsons, a couple who wanted to adopt.  Rachael helped the Robinsons learn about childhood trauma and shared a little about Scotty’s past with them. The Robinsons were committed to providing Scotty the nurturing environment he needed and deserved. After some carefully planned meetings and eventually a few weekend visits, Scotty and the Robinsons decided to move forward.

In late 2023, Scotty moved into his new home. The transition wasn’t without challenges. But with continued support from Rachael and his therapist, Scotty bonded with and grew to trust the Robinsons. The Robinsons encouraged his love of art, converting their spare room into his personal studio.  Scotty’s school life continued to improve, and he started to flourish socially and emotionally.

This past summer, Scotty and the Robison’s adoption was finalized. Today, Scotty is a vibrant 12-year-old who loves to draw and paint, participates in community art events, has friends, and gets decent grades. Things aren’t perfect.  At times he struggles with depression and his traumatic past.  But with Stanford Sierra’s continued support and the unconditional love of his forever family, Scotty is thriving.

*Names have been changed to protect confidentiality.​