Cassie* is new to our program, and her participation marks a significant milestone: She is one of the first youth served through Friends – Eastern Idaho's new Fort Hall location, and her story is a beautiful reminder of why this work matters.

Our program director, Vannesa, recently paid a visit to her home to get to know Cassie and her family better. After spending time with her grandparents, Cassie and Vannesa got to work to create a vision board together, envisioning a future full of possibility. As they cut out pictures from magazines and colored side by side, Cassie shared the things that make her, her: painting, bouncing on big exercise balls, and jumping on the trampoline. She talked about her dog, Sweetie, her best friend since they were both little.

But amid the laughter and creativity, Cassie opened up about something harder. She shared that her kitten had recently passed away. She talked about how much it hurt and how hard it was to say goodbye. Vannesa listened with an open heart, giving Cassie the space to feel her grief fully. She reminded Cassie just how caring, strong, and resilient she is.

By the end of the visit, the heaviness had lifted. Cassie was laughing again and playing catch. This is just the beginning of what unconditional support looks like — connecting with her at home with her family to build trust, showing up not just for the joyful moments, but for the hard ones too. It's letting a child lead their own experience and set their own goals, holding space for whatever feelings, challenges, and victories they bring to the table that day.

We can't wait to watch Cassie's story unfold over the next 12+ years. Friends - Eastern Idaho will be by her side, no matter what.

*Youth name changed to protect privacy