Northwest Arkansas Childrens Shelter

AJ

When AJ* came to the Shelter, his teeth had so much build-up and decay that we couldn’t actually see the majority of his front teeth – just brown tartar and plaque. He actually broke a tooth in half while eating lunch and we took him for an emergency dental appointment that same day. He was prescribed antibiotics for infection and we were told that he needed extensive dental treatment. His case manager worked tirelessly to schedule the many appointments and arrange for transportation to each one. Six root canals, two extractions, and multiple fillings and crowns later, AJ has a smile that he can be proud of.

*name and image changed to protect the privacy of the youth in our care

Demonte

Recently, we had an intelligent, hard-working young man in our care. His name was Demonte* and he was 15 years old. One day, he got upset in class and took off out of the building like he was planning to run away. This is not an uncommon reaction from the children in our care. Many […]

Read more about DemonteImpact stories

Meet Demonte

Recently, we had an intelligent, hard-working young man in our care. His name was Demonte* and he was 15 years old. One day, he got upset in class and took off out of the building like he was planning to run away. This is not an uncommon reaction from the children in our care. Many have been taught that their only two options, when circumstances are beyond their control, are fight or flight. This time, Demonte chose flight.
Lisa, one of our amazing Youth Care Specialists, followed after him and was calling out his name to stop him from walking away. Finally, he did stop and Lisa was able to convince him to return. Later that afternoon, when he was talking through what had happened, he said, “When I heard Mrs. Lisa saying my name, it made me realize that no one in my family or in my life would ever have cared if I ran away. The only reason I stopped is because I knew Mrs. Lisa must care about me because she came after me.”
This is just one story, among hundreds each year, that shows how much our youth care staff impact the children in our care – every day. It is an honor to be here for these kids when they need us the most.
*name and image changed to protect privacy

The staff treated me as if I were their family. They were always there for me and always reminded me of my worth.

Kiyasha, age 15

I rode on a tire swing for the first time!

Mitchell, age 10

I learned that love is better than hate.

Tonya, age 17