Meet Jayden | A Big Brother Who Puts Family First
Jayden’s the kind of teen who would give you his last hoodie if you were cold. He’s 16, quick on his feet, and even quicker to stand up for someone he loves. A natural athlete and big brother at heart, Jayden has been in care since age 11. His dream? To play ball—but more than that, to stay close to the siblings he’s been separated from. He doesn’t need perfect—just a place to land, and someone to believe in him.
Jayden runs fast and loves basketball—but more than anything, he wants to be reunited with his younger siblings. He’s got a heart as big as his hustle.
Background:
- Removed from home due to chronic neglect and exposure to domestic violence
- Birth mother struggling with substance abuse; father absent
- Multiple short-term placements, currently in a kinship care setting (with an aunt)
Personality & Traits:
- Observant, quiet around new adults but opens up over time
- Protective of younger children
- Emotionally resilient but struggles with trust
- Likes structured environments and predictability
- Sometimes anxious when routines change abruptly
Likes:
- Loves building things with Legos
- Big fan of superheroes, especially Black Panther
- Enjoys basketball and riding his bike
- Favorite subject: Math
- Loves dogs and wants to be a veterinarian one day
Dislikes:
- Loud yelling or raised voices (triggers anxiety)
- Group settings with lots of unfamiliar people
- Being left out or overlooked
- Moving between schools
Current Needs:
- Stable, trauma-informed foster home with consistency
- Male role models or mentors
- Academic support, especially in literacy
- Therapy for trauma-related anxiety
- Activities that build confidence and social bonds (e.g., sports, clubs)