Dylan, 20 years old, MO | 31 DAYS WAITING

Wish submitted by:

Dylan is a bright and optimisitc young man learning to make his way in the world. He has had some challenges, but he works hard to face this head on. He graduated this past may but some of his disabilities does still find some difficulties with reading and writing. This can be difficult to navigate in the world when your are a little different, so Dylan does find it difficult to emerge in new things or meet new people. He prefers to be alone, thrives on it, likes solidarity. He has made some good bonds with his foster brother. Dylan has lived his whole life in foster care, he does have siblings out there, but he isn't able to have a relationship with them. He is optimistic for the future, achieving goals like getting his permit so he can learn to drive. Dylan is a very responsible young man who takes pride in keeping his room clean, learning to cook, and overcoming basic challenges. He loves movies and video games.

Dylan would really benefit from having a rugged, waterproof Bluetooth speaker as he gets ready to move into a group home. This is a big change for him and brings a lot of stress, fear, and uncertainty. Foster care is the main system he has known, so adjusting to a new environment and more independence can feel overwhelming at times. Listening to music while walking or spending time outside helps Dylan calm down, manage his emotions, and cope with stress in a healthy way. He especially enjoys taking walks to the creek, so the speaker needs to be waterproof and durable enough for outdoor use. Dylan also has moments where he may hit himself with items he is holding during emotional episodes, so having something sturdy and safe is very important. Having his own Bluetooth speaker would give Dylan a positive coping tool he can use wherever he goes. Music helps him relax, reset, and feel more in control of his emotions, especially during this major life transition and while learning new independence skills in the group home.