11-year-old Janey* mostly kept to herself last year when she was matched with her Wonder mentor, Martha*. Martha would ask Janey about school, her interest in animals, or whichever Harry Potter book she was reading at the time. But Janey’s answers were often short and rarely invited follow-ups. During Wonder group events, Janey would watch instead of joining in. At the ice-skating rink, she sat on a bench rather than skating with the others.

Janey survived a lot before entering foster care. She was often left home alone with not enough to eat. When adults were present, drugs were too. One day a concerned neighbor called child protective services. When social workers arrived, they found Janey home by herself trying to cool down in the bathtub. It was August and 92 degrees inside the home. 

Martha takes her time with Janey. She encourages Janey to engage the world more. Sometimes Janey still prefers to hang back, and that’s okay. Martha never forces or judges. Making friends and forming relationships can be difficult for kids who’ve survived trauma. But slowly, Janey is stepping into her own. She and Martha went to Wonder camp this summer. Janey participated in several activities: rock painting, swimming, and the climbing wall. Janey also made a new friend. They sat together at the campfire and rode home on the bus together. Since returning from camp, Janey has asked Martha if they can plan some activities with her new friend and her new friend’s mentor. Taking the initiative like this is a milestone for Janey. She is reaching out to the world with Marth by her side. 

*Names have been changed to protect confidentiality.​