Kelly and Briar’s Story

Kelly’s Story

My name is Kelly. I am taller and bigger than other kids my age, and I have a kind of big over-the-top personality. I just didn’t fit in1Before I came to Rainbows, I felt all alone. When my dad was killed in a car crash,  we had to move out of our home andI just felt mad at the world. The teachers would keep calling home and tell my  mom that I was being disruptive or isolating myself.  I was driving myself crazy by being a perfectionist. My grades were in the toilet.

It only took about a week of being at Reaching for Rainbows, and I was in love with the place. I wanted to stay there forever. It felt like the other kids at Rainbows were like me, so I was part of the circle right away. The volunteers and the teachers were so lovely to me. They never seemed to get tired of listening to me, and because they gave me so much encouragement in all the activities and projects we did, I started feeling confident in myself. They showed me there were other ways to approach things and to see them as a learning experience rather than a failure.

I’m now in high school. I’m pulling off solid A’s and play many sports. I’ve taught myself how to play the violin. I have a great group of friends who think my big over-the-top personality is fun rather than funny. I feel pretty good about myself.

Briar’s Story

I am Kelly’s younger sister, Briar. I’m tall and big for my age, too and some of the kids at school seem to think that’s pretty weird. I was initially nervous about coming to Rainbows, but now I love it, just like my big sister did. I have made friends, and the volunteers take really good care of us and do crafts with us. They really care about us. I feel safe here.

Their Mom

My name is Claire, and I’m Kelly’s and Briar’s mom. Reaching for Rainbows has been a game-changer for both of my girls.