Day 1, Stop 1 & 2: Terrick & Dakota
by Danielle Gletow on 05/01/12
"Because they're human beings." Terrick's response when we asked him why people should support kids in foster care.
Our journey began in Camden, NJ - previously known as the murder capital of the country - to grant Terrick's wish for a private plane ride and a boat trip to Philly. It was Terrick's 19th birthday today but when we heard him speak, it was as if he's lived through more than most people twice his age. Terrick credits Nehemiah Group with helping him turn his life around after a brief incareration. He now feels like he has a chance at a successful and positive future.
The Camden streets were tight. Driving a 28-foot long, 10-foot wide RV through packed city streets took a bit longer than we anticipated. We were a little late to our Philly stop but we got there for the best part - to make sure Dakota got her wish, a family pass to the zoo - to make many more memories spending time with the animals.
Dakota looked like a typical kid - braided pig tails and a cartoon backpack. It struck me that a lot of people I talk to think foster kids are so much different than any other kid bt they're not. They look, act, talk and are just like other kids their age. They are just facing really big challenges - all the more reason why they need our support.
