Shawn’s Story
A few weeks after he arrived at All Star, 16-year-old Shawn approached Doug, our campus caretaker, to ask if he could help him build the picnic tables he had been working on. Doug agreed and showed him how to tighten bolts and put in screws. They worked in relative silence at first. After completing one table, Shawn asked Doug if he could continue helping him around campus. Within a few weeks, the two clearly enjoyed each other’s company and formed a close bond, working on many projects ranging from assembling furniture to helping with campus cleanup after Hurricane Ian. For Shawn, the experience was game-changing. He learned that healthy relationships with adults are possible — and that they are based on trust, mutual respect and commitment.
“I have great confidence in Shawn and his growing skills and abilities!”
Two years into his foster care journey, Shawn’s transformation is evident to all who know him. Shawn’s outlook about his future brightened and, for the first time in a very long time, Shawn became relaxed and confident enough to engage authentically with adults and peers. He now believes that relationships with others can feel safe and meaningful. Shawn’s perspective about himself, others, and the world has changed in a very positive way.
Doug has great confidence in Shawn. He says, “In the years we have known each other, I have watched Shawn’s confidence and skill levels grow through projects we have worked on together. His growth continues to impress me as he not only takes pride in what he does, he displays a commitment to our community.”
Shawn has learned that adults can be stable, supportive, and loving. He’s learned that some can even serve as mentors. His bond with Doug continues. Doug recently helped with one of Shawn’s most pressing goals—learning to drive. They started with the campus golf cart and will soon graduate to an actual car. Shawn recently turned 18 and is becoming more and more independent. His job training at All Star has provided him with a resume to apply for part-time jobs in the community as he continues his education. He also took up playing the guitar after taking music lessons on the All Star campus. He moved off campus and lives nearby but he comes back regularly to campus to visit. He even brings the staff thoughtful gifts like fruit and cheesecake! And Shawn’s new job working at a gym has inspired him to set fitness and wellness goals. We are so proud of Shawn and honored to continue to support him as he grows into adulthood as a confident, service-oriented, and happy young man.
