Shanelle, 19 years old, OR | 3 DAYS WAITING |

Wish submitted by:

The Lost & Found Institute

Shanelle entered foster care at twelve years old and spent the next six years moving in and out of different foster homes. The instability shaped her teenage years, forcing her to grow up quickly while navigating systems that often felt overwhelming and impersonal. Even so, Shanelle paid close attention to the social workers, advocates, and adults around her—learning both what helped and what was missing. Those experiences planted a seed that would later grow into her purpose. Today, Shanelle is in school studying to become a social worker, driven by a deep desire to support kids who are walking the same paths she once did. Between work and classes, her schedule is full and her free time is limited, but she finds peace in small moments of creativity. When she has a chance to slow down, Shanelle loves coloring and spending time with adult coloring books—using art as a way to decompress, reflect, and care for herself as she continues working toward a future rooted in service and compassion.

For her birthday this year, Shanelle is wishing for a massage and facial—something that would give her a rare chance to truly rest and be cared for. Between work and school, she’s constantly on the go, often putting her own needs on the back burner as she pushes toward her goals. A massage and facial would be more than a treat—it would be a moment of relief, renewal, and self-care, helping her recharge physically and emotionally as she continues showing up for others and building her future.