25 Years of Change: Winnie’s Story

UPDATE: We are so excited to share that Winnie has found her forever family! To learn about other children still waiting for their forever family, visit our international adoption photolistings.

Sweet Winnie took an amazing step to change her life and her future! We know those amazing things are possible for this incredible girl with the love of a family! 

Winnie is a smart 14-year-old girl who has a bright future ahead of her! While she came from a difficult place, she made a promise to herself to make the best of everything in her life.

In 2011, Winnie walked into the office of the central authority asking for help. Her birth family had left her all alone, leaving Winnie to take care of herself. She had no other choice but to seek help as she realized she wanted more in life.

Sadly, Winnie grew up watching her mother work as a prostitute. Her mother was never home to take care of her and her siblings. Winnie has an older sister who is currently living with their aunt and her brother is with their birth mother. The central authority has reached out to her extended family members, but unfortunately, no one has stepped forward to provide for her.

Winnie has been working with a social worker who has been helping her deal with her past and seeing great improvements. She is learning to build healthy relationships with her peers and the caregivers. Recently, Winnie shared with the social worker that she has forgiven her mother and wants the best for her too. What an amazing heart this girl has!

Because Winnie has been on her own for such a long time, she has learned to be independent. She is learning to depend on others and also about what it’s like to be in a family environment. This is what she has been longing for – a warm and loving family of her own.

Winnie is known as an “incredible athlete” in the orphanage. During her time there, she found her passion! She initially expressed interest in track and field and has found it to be a way for her to release any negative thoughts and feelings. She started going to track practice sessions and started excelling in it. The coaches saw huge potential in her and have been working with her one-on-one. She attended national competitions and has won numerous medals! Her dream is to compete in the Olympics.

You can watch Winnie talk more about her dreams here. Password:hope4ever

Winnie is definitely a girl who is brave and smart. She was able to get herself out of a negative situation and fight for what she wants and needs in her life. Winnie wants to live her life to the fullest with a family. A family who will provide for her and help her live out her dreams! Will you be that family?

To learn more about Winnie, please contact Soojin Park at spark@allgodschildren.org or 971-244-1453