River

[River]

Member Application

Hi! My name is River and I am 35+ years old. Please use she/her pronouns when referring to me!

What do you hope to get out of being a member of Birchwood Isle? I'm looking to rekindle what I feel like has been lost. You don't see places like this around anymore and I'd like for that to change. I know that Storm and I aren't the only ones who enjoy this sort of roleplay, and I'd love to see things take off. Birchwood Isle has always been a place I've felt I was coming home to, and I'm happy to have that back.

Did you come here looking for someone to care for your inner kid(s)? No. I've already got someone. I expect that Storm will keep up with her commitment to me.

What will you do if you post a thread for your inner kid and nobody replies to it? I'd talk to Storm about it since she's my primary play partner.

What will you do if an adoption falls through for your inner kid? I would return them to Orphan's Village or St. Jude's then try again.

If you are playing an adult character, what will you do if you find an unanswered thread in which a child or adolescent is acting out? It depends on a few factors. The first of course, is whether or not it's open. If it is I will consider picking it up, but I make no promises. Generally, I choose to pick up what I believe to be suited toward my characters and what is interesting to me.

If the site needs it, are you willing to play an adult? I plan to play plenty of adults.

Is there anything you want us to know about you? My people tend to be complex and have emotional reactions outside of my own. That can be a little tricky sometimes, especially when scenarios get heated. I do experience some of what they do, but I am capable of separating myself when I need to. Just because two characters aren't hitting it off doesn't mean that I am upset.

Link to your discipline sheet: click here ✅

[Hermione Angela Morrow]

Adult Application

Hi! My name is Hermoine Angela Morrow and I am a co-head of Oak House. I am 42 years old. Please use she/her when referring to me!

Basic Information

Where do you live? Orphan Village
Are you married? If yes, to whom? Yes. I am married to Grace Morrow.
Do you have any children? If yes, list them. No children yet
Is your family open to adopting children or adolescents?
Absolutely. We've discussed adopting one or two children ourselves but have learned not to make too many assumptions about what the future might hold.

Appearance
Height: 5'8"
Build: Average, sturdy, active
Hair Color: Blonde
Eye Color: Blue
Distinguishing Features: Wears reading glasses when working on paperwork; often has a notebook tucked under one arm
Brief Description: Hermione carries herself with quiet confident. Standing a little taller than your average woman, she has a practical build that reflects a life spent participating in physical activities. Her blonde hair is usually worn in a simple style that keeps it out of her face and her blue eyes can be piercing.

She favors comfort over fashion, and you'll typically find her in jeans, workboots, and comfortable tops. No matter what she's doing, she always looks like she belongs exactly where she is.


Personality
Strengths: Oragnized | Dependable | Patient | Fair | Observant | Practical | Consistent | Loyal | Hard-working | Encouraging
Flaws: Stubborn | Controlling | Overcommits | Demanding | Distant | Tense | Relentless | Intense | Doesn't ask for help until she's overwhelmed |
Likes: Community dinners | Gardening | Board games | Holiday traditions | Porch conversations | Reading aloud | Fresh baked bread | Handwritten notes | Organized spaces | Family projects
Dislikes: Dishonesty | Chronic lateness | Broken promises | Needless waste | Avoidable excuses | Excessive screen time | Bullying | Rudeness | Gossip | People who quit without trying
Vices: Coffee. Entirely too much coffee.
Fears: Elevators. Watching someone she loves die slowly.
Personality: Hermione has always believed that home is a place that should feel lived in. She likes noise and activity -- the sense that people are sharing their lives together. Perfectly manicured and quiet houses make her nervous. She much prefers a crowded dining room filled with conversation, and she thrives when she has a project to organize, traditions to uphold or a problem to solve.

Having spent years teaching, she learned that children are often capable of much more than what adults expect from them. As a result, she tends to hold them to high standards and expects them to meet them. It's her belief that expectations communicate belief in a person's ability to succeed.

She's deeply invested in the success of the children under her care and works hard to ensure that Oak House feels like a family rather than a holding cell or institution. She believes structure, routine, accountability, and affection all work together -- and she sees no contradiction between comforting a child and holding them responsible for their choices.


Relationships & Discipline

How do you normally get along with other adults? Hermione generally gets along well with other adults and enjoys working collaboratively. While she values differing viewpoints, she can become frustrated with people who are inconsistent, unreliable, or unwilling to follow through on commitments.
How do you normally get along with teenagers? Quite well. Hermione appreciates honesty, even when it's delivered with attitude. She enjoys helping teenagers develop independence and responsibility and often finds herself engaging in lengthy debates with them.
How do you normally get along with children? Exceptionally well. Her years in education gave her a strong understanding of older children (8+), and she enjoys their enthusiasm, creativity, and curiosity. She is often the adult organizing games, activities, or group projects.
Link to your discipline sheet: CLICK HERE ✅

Orphan Village

What is your role at the Orphan Village? Co-Head
Which house or building do you work for? Oak House
Do you live in the Village or commute? Lives at Oak House
Do you have any special training, certification, or skills relevant to your role? Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education, teaching certification, classroom management experience, youth mentorship programs, CPR and First Aid certification.
Do you prefer to work with a particular age group? Which one? Older children and adolescents, roughly ages 8-18.
Do you struggle with a particular age group? Which one? Younger children. Hermione enjoys them, but she sometimes struggles with developmental stages where children genuinely don't understand consequences, responsibility, or accountability in the same way older children do.

Briefly describe your caregiving or mentoring style. Hermione believes children thrive when expectations are clear, routines are predictable, and adults follow through consistently. She spends a great deal of time actively involved in the lives of the children under her care and prefers prevention over reaction whenever possible. She is a strong believer in accountability and often focuses on reinforcing expectations before problems arise rather than waiting until they become significant issues. She is known for remembering details, noticing changes in behavior, and ensuring that every child feels like a valued member of the Oak House family.

Describe how you see your role in the village. Hermione sees herself as a builder of community. Her responsibility isn't simply to supervise children but to create a stable, welcoming home where they feel safe, supported, and connected to those around them. She believes that traditions, routines, shared responsibilities, and meaningful relationships provide the foundation children need to thrive.

Is there anything else we should know about your role in the Village? Hermione is often the driving force behind many of Oak House's traditions, celebrations, and community activities. If there is a holiday gathering, a family game night, a house project, or a new tradition being introduced, there's a good chance she had a hand in organizing it.

Background

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education
Work History: Elementary School Teacher, Grade-Level Lead Teacher, Youth Mentor, Co-Head of Oak House
Current Goals or Challenges: Continuing to build a strong sense of family and belonging within Oak House while balancing the needs of children ranging from preschoolers to older teenagers.
Reason for Living on Birchwood Isle: After nearly two decades in education, Hermione wanted the opportunity to invest more deeply in children's lives than a traditional classroom allowed. Birchwood Isle offered the chance to help create the kind of intentional community she had always believed children deserved.
Brief History: Hermione grew up in a close knit family that placed a strong emphasis on responsibility, community involvement, and helping one's neighbors. From an early age, she knew she wanted to work with children and pursued a career in education shortly after graduating from college.

For nearly twenty years she taught elementary school and became known as a dependable, no-nonsense teacher who maintained a structured classroom while still earning the affection and trust of her students. She enjoyed teaching, but over time she became increasingly frustrated by the limited opportunities to support children outside of the classroom environment.

During this period, she met Grace, whose work with at-risk teenagers exposed Hermione to an entirely different side of child welfare. Their conversations often continued late into the evening as they discussed the challenges facing the children they worked with and the limitations of the systems surrounding them.

When the opportunity arose to help establish Oak House on Birchwood Isle, Hermione immediately recognized it as the chance to combine everything she valued most: community, tradition, structure, accountability, and family. Together, she and Grace committed themselves to creating the kind of home both women wished more children could experience.

[Gabriel Thomas Rubio]

Adult Application

Hi! My name is Gabriel Rubio and I am a Co-Head of Maple House. I am 40 years old. Please use he/him when referring to me!

Basic Information

Where do you live? The Orphan Village
Are you married? If yes, to whom? Yes, to Karin Rubio
Do you have any children? If yes, list them. Not biologically, though Gabriel is likely to attach to children who come through Maple House and will consider them to be "his kids".
Is your family open to adopting children or adolescents? Yes, albeit cautiously.

Appearance
Height: 6'0"
Build: Broad-shouldered, muscular
Hair Color: Dark Brown
Eye Color: Brown
Distinguishing Features: Several small scars from his years as a firefighter, including a faint scar along one forearm and a small burn mark near his right wrist.
Brief Description: Gabriel is the sort of man who immediately comes across looking capable. Years spent working as a firefighter left him strong and physically fit, though age has softened some of the sharp athleticism of his younger years. His dark hair is beginning to show traces of gray at the temples, but that doesn't concern him. You'll always find him with a watch on his wrist, and he typically dresses for practicality rather than fashion.

While his expression often appears serious at first glance, it changes dramatically when he smiles. The children of Maple House know that his smiles are earned rather than freely given, which somehow makes them all the more valuable. Most days he can be found in jeans, boots, and a work shirt with the sleeves rolled up, looking more prepared to repair a fence than attend a meeting.

Personality
Strengths: Dependable | Calm under pressure | Protective | Disciplined | Patient | Honest | Practical | Loyal | Courageous | Observant
Flaws: Stubborn | Can be intimidating | Slow to trust | Struggles to ask for help | Holds himself to impossible standards | Sometimes overly protective | Overly blunt | Has difficulty admitting when he's wrong | Uncomfortable discussing his own feelings | Expects accountability from everyone
Likes: Woodworking | Home Improvement Projects | Early mornings | Physical excersise | Cooking family meals | Camping | Fishing | Dogs | Community service projects | Spending time with Karin | Smoking meats and barbecueing | Building furniture | Restoring old motorcycles
Dislikes: Carelessness | Excuses | Reckless behavior | Dishonesty | Bullying | Wasted potential | Excessive screen time | Laziness | Unnecessary risks | Being interrupted
Vices: Cigarettes
Fears: Death of those placed in his care.
Personality: Gabriel is a man of quiet certainty. He's the sort of man that rules his home with a quiet authority -- he doesn't scream it from the rooftops, it's there in the way he stands, acts, and how he chooses to proceed in certain circumstances. He rarely raises his voice and isn't the sort to talk simply to hear himself speak -- he observes, listens, and acts when necessary.

Years spent responding to emergencies has taught him that panic rarely ever improves a situation. As a result, Gabriel has developed a reputation for remaining calm even when everyone around him is losing their heads. Children and adults alike often find themselves looking to him during difficult moments simply because he appears so steady.

Though many people initially find him intimidating, those who know him well discover a deeply caring man beneath the stern exterior. Gabriel believes that love and accountability belong together. He is generous with his time, fiercely protective of the people he cares about, and utterly devoted to his family, though he often expresses those feelings through actions rather than words.



Relationships & Discipline

How do you normally get along with other adults? Generally very well. Gabriel respects competence, honesty, and people who do what they say they will do. He tends to avoid gossip and unnecessary drama, which sometimes causes others to view him as reserved. Once someone earns his trust, however, they usually have it for life.
How do you normally get along with teenagers? Surprisingly well. Gabriel doesn't try to be teenagers' friend and doesn't concern himself with being liked. He treats teenagers with respect and expects them to behave responsibly in return.
How do you normally get along with children? Young children are often intimidated by Gabriel at first. Fortunately, this rarely lasts long. He is patient, dependable, and possesses an endless supply of terrible dad jokes. Children quickly learn that while he may be strict, he is also one of the safest people they know.
Link to your discipline sheet: click here ✅

Orphan Village

What is your role at the Orphan Village? Co-Head of Maple House
Which house or building do you work for? Maple House
Do you live in the Village or commute? Gabriel lives in Maple House with his wife.
Do you have any special training, certification, or skills relevant to your role? Former firefighter. Certified EMT. CPR and First Aid Instructor. Extensive emergency response and crisis management experience. Skilled in home maintenance, woodworking, and outdoor safety.
Do you prefer to work with a particular age group? Which one? Gabriel is most comfortable working with adolescents. He enjoys helping teenagers prepare for adulthood and believes they are often capable of more responsibility than adults give them credit for.
Do you struggle with a particular age group? Which one? Very young children

Briefly describe your caregiving or mentoring style. Gabriel believes children thrive when expectations are clear and consistently enforced. He emphasizes accountability, responsibility, honesty, and follow-through. While he is quick to correct poor behavior, he is equally quick to acknowledge hard work, perseverance, and personal growth. He wants children to leave Maple House feeling capable of handling whatever life puts in front of them.

Describe how you see your role in the village. Gabriel sees himself as a stabilizing presence. Whether that means helping a frightened child through a difficult night, responding to an emergency, teaching practical skills, or helping maintain village facilities, he wants to be someone others can depend upon.

Is there anything else we should know about your role in the Village? Gabriel strongly believes that every child deserves both belonging and accountability. In his mind, some of the most important lessons children learn come from adults who care enough to hold them to high standards.


Background

Education: Associate Degree in Fire Science
Work History: Firefighter, EMT, Volunteer Youth Sports Coach
Current Goals or Challenges: Learning to slow down and build a life that isn't defined by emergencies. Continuing to help children find stability, confidence, and purpose.
Reason for Living on Birchwood Isle: Gabriel originally came because Karin wanted to see the island for herself after hearing about it from her sister. He expected a brief visit. Instead, he found a community built around responsibility, connection, and involvement. The values felt increasingly rare in the outside world, and he quickly found himself falling in love with it as much as his wife did.


Brief History: Gabriel grew up in a close-knit working-class family where service to others was highly valued. His father worked in construction and his mother served as a nurse, leaving him with a deep respect for people who spent their lives helping others. After high school, he joined the firehouse and quickly discovered that he had found his calling.

For nearly two decades, Gabriel served as a firefighter and EMT. And through his work, he's witnessed some of humanity's best moments and some of it's worst. The work taught him discipline, courage, and the importance of staying calm while others panicked, but it also taught him how fragile life could be.

Throughout those years, Karin remained the center of his world. Their marriage weathered long shifts, interrupted holidays, and countless sleepless nights. The greatest challenge they faced together, however, came when they discovered that they'd never be able to have biological children. While Karin openly grieved the loss, Gabriel buried himself in problem-solving and practical solutions before eventually accepting that some things just weren't able to be fixed.

When Karin's sister introduced them to Birchwood Isle, Gabriel expected little more than a change of scenery. Instead, he discovered a community where people still looked after one another and where children were expected to grow into capable, responsible adults. It felt like the kind of place he and Karin had been searching for all along. Together they accepted positions at Maple House.

[Elliot James Nolan]

Adult Application

Hi! My name is Elliot James Nolan and I am a Co-Head of Willow House. I am 42 years old. Please use he/him when referring to me!

Basic Information

Where do you live? The Orphan Village
Are you married? If yes, to whom? Yes, to Amber Nolan.
Do you have any children? If yes, list them. Yes, a sixteen year old daughter and twelve year old son
Is your family open to adopting children or adolescents? Yes.

Appearance
Height: 6'1"
Build: lean, athletic
Hair Color: red
Eye Color: blue-gray
Distinguishing Features: Some of his hair has begun to streak with white. He also has a strong jawline and a faint scar beneath his chin.
Brief Description: Elliot carries himself with the sort of quiet confidence that makes people pay attention when he speaks. Tall and lean, he moves with purpose and rarely appears rushed, even when he has a dozen things demanding his attention. Years spent walking school grounds, supervising students, and maintaining a large household have left him fit without making him particularly imposing.

Deep-set blue-gray eyes miss very little and often give the impression that he knows more than he's saying. Combined with his tendency to pause and think before speaking, many newcomers find him intimidating before they get to know him.

Despite that, there is a warmth to Elliot that becomes obvious with time. His smiles are genuine, if infrequent, and the lines around his eyes reveal a man who laughs more often than people expect. Most children eventually decide that he looks exactly like what he is: somebody's father.

Personality
Strengths: Disciplined; reliable; patient; observant; intelligent; principled; organized; protective; dependable; calm under pressure
Flaws: Stubborn; critical; perfectionistic; judgmental; rigid; demanding; intimidating; emotionally reserved; slow to forgive dishonesty; struggles to delegate
Likes:Reading; history; classical music; gardening; rainstorms; family dinners; fountain pens; woodworking; coffee; walking trails
Dislikes: Excuses; carelessness; lateness; disorder; broken promises; gossip; entitlement; recklessness; wasted potential; unnecessary interruptions
Vices: Coffee
Fears: Snakes (his brother died from a venomous snake bite that he didn't disclose).
Personality: Elliot believes that structure is one of the purest expressions of love. While some people see rules, routines, and expectations as restrictions, he sees them as tools that help children feel safe and successful. He is highly organized and naturally inclined toward order, but his desire for structure isn't about control -- it's about creating an environment where children know exactly what is expected of them and can rely on the adults around them to be consistent.

He is not a particularly expressive man. Unlike Amber, who often understands people through observation and emotional insight, Elliot understands them through patterns. He notices when routines change, when grades begin to slip, when a child suddenly stops participating in activities they usually enjoy. He sees details that others tend to overlook and is remarkably difficult to deceive. Children often discover that he knew what was going on long before they confessed.

Although he is strict and maintains high expectations, Elliot is deeply invested in the people around him. He remembers birthdays, favorite meals, important events, and small conversations from months earlier. He may not be quick with praise, but when he offers it, children know they have earned it.

Relationships & Discipline

How do you normally get along with other adults? Elliot gets along well with most adults, even if he isn't universally liked. He is polite, professional, and respectful, but he has little patience for irresponsibility or inconsistency. Adults who take their responsibilities seriously tend to appreciate him. Adults who cut corners or fail to follow through on commitments often find him frustrating. While he rarely starts conflicts, he is perfectly willing to address problems directly when he believes they need to be addressed.
How do you normally get along with teenagers? Teenagers often have mixed feelings about Elliot when they first meet him. He expects a lot from them and treats them as young adults instead of children. He holds them accountable, assigns meaningful responsibilities, and rarely lowers his expectations simply because something is difficult. While this can create friction initially, most eventually develop a great deal of respect for him because they know he takes them seriously and genuinely believes they are capable of more than they think.
How do you normally get along with children? Children tend to get along well with Elliot. They appreciate his predictability and consistency, even if they don't always have the words to explain why. Younger children often seek him out when they need help with a project, want a story read to them, or simply want to sit quietly nearby. While he can be stern when necessary, most children quickly discover that he enjoys their company.
Link to your discipline sheet: click here ✅

Orphan Village

What is your role at the Orphan Village? Co-Head of Willow House
Which house or building do you work for? Willow House
Do you live in the Village or commute? Elliot lives in Willow House with Amber and his two children.
Do you have any special training, certification, or skills relevant to your role? Elliot holds a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership and spent nearly twenty years working in boarding schools. He has extensive experience with child development, conflict resolution, academic mentoring, crisis management, and residential supervision.
Do you prefer to work with a particular age group? Which one? Teenagers
Do you struggle with a particular age group? Which one? No

Briefly describe your caregiving or mentoring style. Most of his effort goes into establishing routines, setting expectations, and helping children build habits that lead to success. He prefers to prevent problems rather than react to them, and he spends a good deal of time creating systems that make it easier for children to make good decisions.

That said, Elliot is both strict and very harsh when those expectations are ignored. He believes consequences should be predictable, meaningful, and enforced consistently. Children in Willow House quickly learn that Elliot means exactly what he says. There is very little room for negotiation once a decision has been made. While his punishments can be severe, he doesn't hold grudges. Once a punishment has been completed, he considers the matter settled and focuses on helping the child move forward.

Describe how you see your role in the village.  Elliot sees himself as a father, not only to his biological children but to those of Willow House as well. His responsibility isn't just to keep children safe and comfortable, but to help prepare them for adulthood. He believes children need guidance, accountability, discipline, opportunities to succeed, and adults who are willing to invest in them even when doing so is difficult.

Is there anything else we should know about your role in the Village? While Amber is often known for her ability to understand people, Elliot is known for his ability to create stable environments. The routines, schedules, expectations, and traditions that define life in Willow House are largely his work.


Background

Education: Bachelor's Degree in History; Master's Degree in Educational Leadership
Work History: Teacher - Housemaster - Assistant Headmaster - Headmaster of a private boarding school
Current Goals or Challenges:Building a lasting home in Willow House while helping Amber finally feel safe and secure after years of instability and fear, while settling his own children in a new environment.
Reason for Living on Birchwood Isle: To create a safe future for his family.
Brief History: Elliot grew up in a stable household as the son of two teachers. Education was highly valued in his home, and from an early age, he learned the importance of responsibility, hard work, and following through on commitments. While he was never the most outgoing child unlike his younger brother Levi, he developed a love of history, learning, and mentorship that would eventually shape the course of his life.

After completing his education, Elliot accepted a position teaching history at a private boarding school. He quickly discovered that he enjoyed life outside the classroom just as much as he enjoyed teaching. Over the years he became a dormitory master, then an assistant headmaster, and eventually the school's headmaster. During his career he became known for maintaining high standards while also developing strong relationships with students. Former students frequently returned to visit him long after graduation.

Elliot met Amber during one of the most difficult periods of her life. Initially their relationship was purely platonic and centered around helping her navigate challenges related to her marriage.  He watched her rebuild her life piece by piece and came to admire her strength, intelligence, and compassion. When her marriage finally ended, their friendship gradually became something more.

The years that followed should have been peaceful, but Amber's former husband continued to be a dark cloud over their lives. As the situation escalated, Elliot became increasingly concerned for her safety and well-being, as well as for that of his children. Discovering Birchwood Isle felt almost too good to be true. The island offered something neither of them had possessed in years: certainty. Together they chose to leave their former lives behind and begin again.

[Adam Henry Chandler]

Adult Application

Hi! My name is Adam Chandler and I am a co-head of Cedar House. I am 45 years old. Please use he/him when referring to me!

Basic Information

Where do you live? Orphan Village
Are you married? If yes, to whom? Yes. To Houston "Tex" Fletcher
Do you have any children? If yes, list them. Ian James Fletcher (24), Derek Anthony Fletcher (17)
Is your family open to adopting children or adolescents? Perhaps someday

Appearance
Height:6'0"
Build:Lean, broad-shouldered
Hair Color: Dark brown with silver at the temples
Eye Color: Hazel
Distinguishing Features: Long hair; expressive eyes; crooked nose from an old break
Brief Description:
Adam has the sort of face people trust without quite understanding why. Time has left its mark in the form of silver threaded through his dark hair and fine lines around his eyes, but it hasn't done much to diminish his presence. While Tex tends to command attention the moment he enters a room, Adam has the opposite effect. People simply find themselves gravitating toward him.

His hair falls past his collar and is usually pulled back when he's working. He dresses simply, favoring jeans, boots, and rolled sleeves over anything formal. Most people assume he is approachable.


Personality
Strengths: Patient; perceptive; dependable; calm under pressure; honest; loyal; disciplined; observant; fair; consistent
Flaws: Stubborn; judgmental; controlling; slow to forgive; emotionally reserved; distrustful of excuses; can be intimidating; holds people to high standards; tends to assume responsibility for everyone around him
Likes: Coffee; woodworking; community projects; long drives; repairing things; local history; reading; watching people master new skills; well-made tools; quiet mornings; restoring antique furniture; maintaining the community garden
Dislikes: excuses; carelessness; broken promises; gossip; quitting halfway through a project; wastefulness; passive aggression; dishonesty; being interrupted; people who refuse help they desperately need
Vices: Bourbon
Fears: watching someone destroy their own future
Personality: Adam spent years working with teenagers who seemed determined to make the worst possible decisions. The experience left him with a deep belief that people are capable of change, but only if they're willing to take responsibility for themselves. He has little patience for excuses, but enormous patience for effort. A teenager who tries and fails will find Adam in their corner every time. A teenager who refuses to try may discover just how stubborn he can be.

Unlike Tex, Adam does not rely on charm. He listens more than he speaks and has a habit of asking questions that leave people feeling uncomfortably understood. He rarely raises his voice, rarely loses his temper, and almost never says something he doesn't mean. Many residents find him easier to talk to than Tex. They also discover that he is much harder to manipulate.

At his core, Adam is a builder. He believes confidence comes from competence and that self-respect is earned through effort. Whether he's helping a child build a birdhouse or helping a teenager navigate a crisis, his goal is always the same: leave them more capable than he found them.

Relationships & Discipline

How do you normally get along with other adults? Very well. Adam is respectful, professional, and easy to work with. He is comfortable disagreeing when necessary, but prefers cooperation over conflict. Most adults find him dependable and straightforward.
How do you normally get along with teenagers? Exceptionally well. Adam spent years working with teenagers and understands that many of them are smarter, more capable, and more aware than adults often give them credit for. He treats them with respect and expects them to behave accordingly.
How do you normally get along with children? Well enough. Adam tends to connect most naturally with older children and adolescents who are beginning to develop their own independence.

Link to your discipline sheet: click here ✅

Orphan Village

What is your role at the Orphan Village? Co-Head of Cedar House
Which house or building do you work for? Cedar House
Do you live in the Village or commute? In the Village
Do you have any special training, certification, or skills relevant to your role? Former juvenile probation officer with extensive experience working with at-risk youth and their families.
Do you prefer to work with a particular age group? Which one? Teenagers
Do you struggle with a particular age group? Which one? Very young children

Briefly describe your caregiving or mentoring style. Adam believes young people learn best by doing. He encourages residents to solve problems, learn practical skills, and take ownership of their successes and failures. While he is always willing to help, he is careful not to do things for people that they can learn to do for themselves.

Describe how you see your role in the village.Adam sees himself as preparing young people for the lives they'll eventually live outside of Cedar House. His goal isn't to raise children who obey him, but young adults who can think for themselves, make good decisions, and contribute meaningfully to the community around them.

Is there anything else we should know about your role in the Village? Many residents assume Tex is the stricter of the two heads of Cedar House. Those who spend enough time in the house usually discover that Adam is every bit as firm, just quieter about it.

Background

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice
Work History: Juvenile Probation Officer
Current Goals or Challenges: Helping Cedar House become a place where residents can develop practical skills, confidence, and independence while navigating the challenges of parenting two nearly grown sons.
Reason for Living on Birchwood Isle: Adam was drawn to Birchwood Isle's emphasis on accountability, mentorship, practical skill-building, and community involvement. Its disciplinary philosophy aligned with many of the conclusions he had reached throughout his years working with troubled youth.
Brief History: Adam Chandler grew up believing that most problems could be solved if people were willing to do the work. His father was a contractor and his mother a school secretary -- between them they raised three children with a strong expectation that everyone would contribute. If something broke, you fixed it. If you made a mistake, you owned it. If you wanted something, you worked for it. It wasn't always a particularly gentle household, but it gave Adam a belief in accountability that would follow him throughout his life.

After graduating from college with a degree in Criminal Justice, Adam accepted a position as a juvenile probation officer. He expected to spend a few years in the field before moving on to something else. Instead, he stayed. For more than two decades, he worked with troubled teenagers and their families, helping young people navigate court orders, probation requirements, school issues, substance abuse, family conflict, and all the other problems that seemed to follow them wherever they went. The work taught him patience, but it also taught him that good intentions meant nothing without action. Over time, he developed a reputation for being fair, consistent, and almost impossible to manipulate.

Tex Fletcher entered his life entirely by accident.

Adam met him after Tex had retired from the military and returned to Texas. On paper, the two men had very little in common. Tex was larger than life, full of stories and plans and restless energy. Adam was quieter and more deliberate. They argued regularly in the beginning. Adam thought Tex was stubborn. Tex thought Adam was self-righteous. Somewhere between the arguments and the long conversations, they fell in love. For all of Tex's restless energy and larger-than-life personality, he possessed a sincerity that Adam found impossible to ignore.

The years that followed weren't always easy. The divorce that allowed them to build a life together was painful for everyone involved, and Adam was careful not to overstep with Ian and Derek. He never expected to become a parent and spent years trying to find the right balance between supporting the boys and respecting the fact that they already had parents. Then their mother decided she no longer wanted the responsibility of raising them, and suddenly Adam found himself sharing a home with a sixteen-year-old and a young man fresh out of college.

Birchwood Isle was Adam's idea.

After years spent helping young people navigate broken systems, he was drawn to a community built around accountability, mentorship, and second chances. The philosophy of the island aligned with many of the beliefs he had spent his life developing. When he learned there was an opportunity for both himself and Tex to work with young people in a meaningful way, he encouraged the move. Together they accepted positions at Cedar House, where Adam hopes to help children and adolescents develop the confidence, skills, and judgment necessary to build good lives for themselves.

[Derek Anthony Fletcher]

Adolescent Application

Hi! My name is Derek Anthony Fletcher and I in the 11th grade. I am 16 years old. Please use he/him pronouns when referring to me!

Basic Information

Full Name: Derek Anthony Fletcher
Nickname, if Any: Fletch
Age: 16
Birthday: November 7th
Sex: male
Pronouns: he/him
Current Grade/Year in School, if Applicable: 11th
Current Occupation, if Applicable: Youth Sports Referee and Pool Lifeguard
Special Needs: none

Appearance

Height: 5'11"
Build: Athletic
Hair Color: Dark Blonde
Eye Color: Blue
Distinguishing Features: Crooked smile; scar above his right eyebrow from a baseball accident; perpetually sun-tanned
Brief Description: Derek inherited enough of his father's looks that nobody has to ask who he's related to. He has the same blue eyes, the same easy smile, and the same athletic build, though where Tex fills a room with sheer presence, Derek tends to fade into the background until he chooses otherwise. His dark blond hair is usually a little too long and perpetually looks as though he forgot to comb it after getting out of the pool.

Years of sports, lifeguarding, and spending as much time outdoors as possible have left him lean, strong, and permanently sun-tanned. Most days he can be found in athletic shorts, worn sneakers, and a t-shirt advertising some local team or sporting event. He looks older than sixteen at first glance, especially when he's working, and people often assume he's older than he actually is.

Personality

What are your greatest strengths? List 5-10: resourceful; dependable; confident; adaptable; protective; hardworking; quick-thinking; courageous; loyal; resilient
What are your greatest weaknesses? List 5-10: stubborn; impulsive; overconfident; secretive; impatient; argumentative; reluctant to ask for help; takes unnecessary risks; struggles to admit when he's wrong; carries responsibilities that aren't his
What do you struggle with? Accepting help from other people. Derek is perfectly willing to help everyone else, but asking for help himself feels like failure. He also struggles with authority when he believes he already knows the correct solution to a problem.
What are your hobbies or interests? Sports, swimming, fishing, coaching younger athletes, hiking, weight training, camping, repairing equipment, pickup games, and anything that keeps him outdoors
What do you really enjoy? Feeling useful. Derek likes knowing he's competent and capable. He enjoys being trusted with responsibility and likes situations where people rely on him.
What do you really dislike? Being treated like a little kid, broken promises, unnecessary rules, people who quit when things get difficult, and feeling helpless.
What are your favorite things? Football games under the lights, lake days, grilled food, old pickup trucks, summer evenings, competitive sports, bonfires, and being busy
What do you fear? Failing someone who depends on him. Being unable to help when somebody needs him.
Describe your personality in 100-500 words: Derek is the kind of teenager adults describe as "a good kid" right before explaining whatever trouble he got himself into this time.

On the surface, he seems easy enough to understand. He's athletic, hardworking, responsible, and generally willing to help wherever help is needed. He works as both a youth sports referee and a lifeguard, and he takes both jobs seriously. Whether he's keeping an eye on swimmers, helping coach younger athletes, or lending a hand with a project around the village, Derek likes being useful. He likes being trusted. More than anything, he likes knowing that people can count on him when things get difficult.

The problem is that Derek has a habit of deciding that if something needs to be done, then he should be the one to do it.

He is fiercely independent and far more comfortable helping other people than asking for help himself. Growing up with a mentally unstable mother and a father often gone with the military taught him to adapt quickly and solve his own problems, and over time, that tendency turned into habit. If a friend is stranded, Derek will find a ride. If something is broken, he'll try to fix it. If someone is struggling, he'll step in. Unfortunately, he doesn't always stop to ask whether the situation is actually his responsibility. He tends to assume that he can handle things on his own, and that confidence occasionally gets him into more trouble than any deliberate rebellion ever could.

Despite this, Derek isn't disrespectful by nature. He generally gets along well with adults and has little interest in breaking rules just for the sake of breaking them. Most of the time, when he finds himself in trouble, it isn't because he didn't understand the rule -- it's because he convinced himself that this particular situation was different. He can be stubborn, argumentative, and frustratingly confident when he believes he's right, and he has a habit of defending his decisions well after everyone else has decided they were bad ones.

But beneath his confidence, Derek carries a strong sense of loyalty and responsibility. He hates disappointing people, hates feeling helpless, and hates standing by while someone else struggles. He has a protective streak a mile wide and will bend over backwards for the people he cares about. He might rarely talk about his own problems, but he's often the first person to show up when somebody else needs help.

At his core, Derek is a teenager trying very hard to be a grown man. Sometimes that determination serves him well. Sometimes it lands him in a ton of hot water. Either way, he rarely backs down from a challenge and almost never quits once he's decided something is worth fighting for.

Relationships & Behavior

How do you normally get along with adults? Pretty well. Adults tend to trust Derek quickly because he's responsible, hardworking, and comfortable carrying on a conversation. The trouble starts when adults tell him to stand down from a situation he believes he can handle himself.
How do you normally get along with teenagers? Generally very well. Derek is social, athletic, and easy to get along with. He has a wide circle of acquaintances and a smaller group of close friends. He's often the person people call when they need help with something.
How do you normally get along with other children? Surprisingly well. Younger children tend to like Derek because he's patient with them and willing to spend time teaching them things. Years of sports and lifeguarding have given him plenty of practice dealing with younger kids.
How independent are you? Extremely. Derek prefers solving problems himself and often takes on responsibilities that don't actually belong to him.
How do you normally react when you get into trouble? Derek argues because he usually believes he had a good reason for doing whatever got him into trouble. Once he's had his say, however, he generally accepts the consequences without much fuss.

Link to your discipline sheet: click here ✅


Background

Describe your history in 150-1000 words:

Derek Anthony Fletcher was born seven years after his older brother, Ian. By the time he arrived, his family had already settled into a rhythm built around his father's military career. Deployments, long absences, homecomings, and sudden changes in plans were simply part of everyday life. While Fletch loved his father and looked forward to visits, most of his childhood memories involve waiting for the next time Tex would come home rather than actually living with him for extended periods of time.

For most of his childhood, Derek was raised primarily by his mother. Unfortunately, stability wasn't always one of her strengths. Some days were better than others. There were stretches where everything seemed normal, and there were stretches where Fletch learned it was easier to take care of things himself than rely on somebody else to do it. He learned how to make his own meals, keep track of his own responsibilities, and solve his own problems at a younger age than most people realized.

As a result, Fletch grew up quickly. He became involved in sports early and stayed involved for years, finding structure, consistency, and purpose on the field. Coaches trusted him, and teammates relied on him. For the first time, he found himself in environments where expectations were clear, and people generally did what they said they were going to do. The confidence he developed through athletics carried over into other parts of his life. By high school, he was working part-time as both a youth sports referee and a pool lifeguard, jobs that suited him well.

Despite the distance, Fletch maintained a relationship with his father. Visits were often too short and too infrequent, but they mattered to him. Tex remained larger than life in Fletch's eyes for much of his childhood: part father, part storyteller, and occasionally a force of nature.

Everything changed when Fletch was sixteen. His mother abruptly decided she no longer wanted the responsibility of raising her children and left. Almost overnight, Fletch found himself living full-time with his father and Adam. It was a strange adjustment for everyone involved. After years of seeing Tex only periodically, Derek suddenly had to figure out what it meant to have him around every day. Likewise, Tex had to learn how to parent a sixteen-year-old son who was already halfway convinced he could handle life on his own.

Not long afterward, the family relocated to Birchwood Isle.

For Fletch, the move was just another change in a life that had always been full of them. He adapted the same way he always had: by staying busy. Between school, sports, and work he quickly found ways to make himself useful. While he still occasionally struggles to ask for help or admit when he's in over his head, Derek has built a reputation as someone people can depend on. Whether that's always a good thing remains a matter of debate.

Other

Is there anything else we need to know about you? Most people assume Fletch is older than he actually is. Between his jobs, athletic background, and tendency to take responsibility for things, it's easy to forget that he's only sixteen. Fletch rarely corrects people when they make that mistake.

He has a habit of volunteering for things before thinking them through and is notorious for involving himself in problems that don't technically belong to him. More than one adult has informed him that "helping" and "taking over" are not the same thing -- Fletch remains unconvinced.

While he's generally social and easy to get along with, he is surprisingly private about his own problems and dislikes being fussed over. If he's injured, upset, or struggling, he's far more likely to insist he's fine than admit he needs help.

He answers to both Derek and Fletch, though most people outside his family know him almost exclusively as Fletch. Coaches, teammates, coworkers, and referees have called him that for years, and the nickname stuck long ago.

[Katherine Morgan Schmitt]

Adult Application

Hi! My name is Katherine Morgan Schmitt and I am a Co-Head of Birch House. I am 44 years old. Please use she/her when referring to me!

Basic Information

Where do you live? The Orphan Village
Are you married? If yes, to whom? Yes. Vance Schmitt
Do you have any children? If yes, list them. Yes. Owen (18) and Meghan (16)
Is your family open to adopting children or adolescents? Potentially

Appearance
Height: 5'9"
Build: Athletic
Hair Color: Brown
Eye Color: Hazel
Distinguishing Features: Strong posture, expressive smile, and the faint tan lines of someone who spends a lot of time outdoors.
Brief Description: Katherine has the look of someone who is constantly on the move. Even standing still, she somehow appears ready to head out the door and tackle whatever task comes next. Years spent around athletic programs have left her fit and strong, though she's never been particularly concerned with appearances beyond being presentable and practical. She favors comfortable clothing, athletic wear, jeans, and weather-appropriate outdoor gear.

Her face is warm and approachable, framed by dark brown hair that she usually wears pulled back when she's working. She smiles easily and often, but there is an unmistakable confidence beneath that warmth. Most children and adolescents find her easy to talk to, though they quickly learn that a friendly smile should never be mistaken for softness. Kate is every bit as capable of holding a boundary as she is of offering encouragement.

Personality
Strengths: Organized; reliable; practical; adaptable; confident; hardworking; encouraging; resourceful; courageous; loyal
Flaws: Impatient; stubborn; controlling; competitive; overcommitted; struggles to relax; dislikes asking for help; can be blunt; sometimes dismissive of excuses; prone to taking responsibility for problems that aren't hers to solve
Likes: Hiking; swimming; camping; road trips; coffee with her husband before everyone else wakes up; organized sports; community events; fresh air; goal-setting; watching young people discover what they're capable of
Dislikes: Excuses; chronic lateness; unnecessary drama; clutter; wasted potential; excessive screen time; passivity; dishonesty; quitting; feeling trapped indoors
Vices: Competition
Fears: Heights. Elevators. Losing mobility.
Personality:Kate is a woman of action. When faced with a problem, her first instinct isn't to sit down and analyze it. Her instinct is to get moving -- she makes lists, develops plans, delegates responsibilities, and starts working toward solutions. This tendency served her well throughout her career and continues to serve her well at Birch House, where there is never a shortage of problems requiring attention.

She is deeply encouraging and genuinely enjoys helping young people discover strengths they didn't know they possessed. Few things make her happier than watching a child accomplish something they once believed was impossible. However, she is not particularly patient with self-defeating attitudes or endless complaints. Kate believes that confidence is built through action, not talk, and she encourages children and adolescents to challenge themselves regularly.

While she is often seen as the more outgoing and energetic half of her marriage, Kate's warmth should not be mistaken for permissiveness. She believes strongly in accountability, follow-through, and personal responsibility. Children who know her well understand that she is fair, supportive, and fiercely loyal -- but they also know that she expects people to keep their promises and put forth their best effort.

Relationships & Discipline

How do you normally get along with other adults? Very well. Kate spent years coordinating coaches, parents, teachers, and administrators, which taught her how to work with a wide variety of personalities. She might not have endless patience for difficult people, but she is usually able to find common ground and keep things moving forward.
How do you normally get along with teenagers? Exceptionally well. Kate enjoys teenagers and appreciates their growing independence. She expects a lot from them, but she also gives them opportunities to earn responsibility and prove themselves capable.
How do you normally get along with children? Kate gets along well with children, particularly active children who enjoy spending time outdoors. She enjoys teaching new skills and helping children build confidence through accomplishment.
Link to your discipline sheet: click here ✅

Orphan Village

What is your role at the Orphan Village? Co-Head of Birch House
Which house or building do you work for? Birch House
Do you live in the Village or commute? In the VIllage
Do you have any special training, certification, or skills relevant to your role? Kate spent nearly two decades working in public education, eventually serving as an Athletic Director. She has extensive experience organizing recreational programs, supervising staff, managing budgets, coordinating large events, and working with children and adolescents.
Do you prefer to work with a particular age group? Which one? Teenagers and young adults.
Do you struggle with a particular age group? Which one? Very young children can be challenging for her. Kate enjoys them, but she often finds herself relying on other adults for the patience required by preschool-aged children.

Briefly describe your caregiving or mentoring style.

Kate believes strongly in helping children and adolescents become capable, confident people. She encourages them to try new things, challenge themselves, and develop practical life skills. While she is supportive and approachable, she isn't interested in lowering expectations to avoid discomfort. Failure, disappointment, and frustration are part of growth, and she views them as opportunities to learn rather than problems to eliminate.

She is also highly structured. Expectations are made clear, consequences are predictable, and children rarely have to wonder where they stand with her. Most youngsters find her fair, even when they don't particularly enjoy the consequences she imposes.

Describe how you see your role in the village. Kate views herself as a builder. Her goal is to create opportunities for children and adolescents to discover strengths, interests, and abilities they may never have known they possessed. Whether through athletics, recreation, leadership opportunities, or everyday responsibilities, she hopes to help young people develop confidence in themselves and their ability to face life's challenges.

Is there anything else we should know about your role in the Village?
If there is a recreational activity happening somewhere in the village, there is a good chance Kate had a hand in organizing it. She has a difficult time sitting still and is constantly looking for opportunities to create programs, events, competitions, and activities that bring people together.

Background

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Social Work; Master's Degree in Educational Leadership
Work History: School Social Worker, Activities Coordinator, Assistant Athletic Director, Athletic Director
Current Goals or Challenges: Kate is working to establish Birch House as a place where children and adolescents can develop healthy habits that will serve them throughout their lives. She is also adjusting to the reality of having both of her children living under the same roof as the youngsters she helps care for.
Reason for Living on Birchwood Isle: Kate originally came to Birchwood Isle for her family. She believed the move offered her husband a chance to heal and her children an opportunity to grow up in a safer, more connected environment.
Brief History:

Kate grew up in a family that valued hard work, commitment, and community involvement. Athletics played a significant role throughout her childhood, teaching her lessons about teamwork, leadership, resilience, and personal responsibility. While attending university, she met the man who would eventually become her husband, a driven medical student named Vance Schmitt. The two quickly discovered they shared similar values despite approaching life from very different directions.

After graduation, Kate began her career as a social worker within the public school system. She enjoyed working with students and families, but over time she found herself increasingly drawn toward broader student programs and activities. Eventually she transitioned into school administration, where she spent years helping oversee athletic programs, extracurricular activities, and student leadership initiatives. By the time she left the mainland, she had become a respected Athletic Director known for her ability to build successful programs and motivate young people.

Like many families, the Schmitts were deeply affected by the Covid pandemic. While Vance carried the burden of working through the crisis as a physician, Kate found herself supporting both her family and her husband through one of the most difficult periods of their lives. When Vance proposed relocating to Birchwood Isle, she agreed.

For the last several years, Kate has devoted herself to helping her family build a new life on the island. When the opportunity arose to help lead Birch House alongside her husband, she immediately recognized it as a chance to combine everything she values most: community, mentorship, recreation, and helping young people become the best versions of themselves.

[Meghan Alexandra Schmitt]

Adolescent Application

Hi! My name is Meghan Alexandra Schmitt and I am in the 11th grade. I am 16 years old. Please use she/her pronouns when referring to me!

Basic Information

Full Name: Meghan Alexandra Schmitt
Nickname, if Any: Meg or Meggie (only with family)
Age: 16
Birthday: October 8th
Sex: Female
Pronouns: she/her
Current Grade/Year in School, if Applicable: 11th grade
Current Occupation, if Applicable: Student
Special Needs: None

Appearance

Height: 5'5"
Build: Athletic
Hair Color: Blonde
Eye Color: Blue
Distinguishing Features: Bright blue eyes, an athletic build, and an expression that almost always suggests she's thinking about something.
Brief Description:
Meghan rarely sits still and it shows in how she carries herself. Years of sports, outdoor activities, and an active lifestyle have left her fit and athletic without ever making her seem intimidating. She carries herself with confidence and purpose, moving quickly through life as though she always has somewhere important to be.

Her blonde hair is usually pulled back into a ponytail when she's studying, exercising, or volunteering, which is to say most of the time. She tends to favor practical clothing over the fashionable sort and would much rather be comfortable than trendy. While she's certainly capable of dressing up when necessary, most people are far more likely to see her wearing athletic gear, running shoes, or a school sweatshirt.

Like her mother, Meghan smiles easily. Like her father, she has a habit of studying people when she thinks they aren't paying attention.

Personality

What are your greatest strengths? List 5-10: Intelligent; disciplined; organized; responsible; ambitious; reliable; hardworking; curious; confident; compassionate
What are your greatest weaknesses? List 5-10: Perfectionistic; competitive; stubborn; impatient; overcommitted; overly self-reliant; struggles to admit mistakes; takes on responsibilities that aren't hers; dislikes asking for help; can become overwhelmed without realizing it
What do you struggle with? Failure. Meghan has spent most of her life succeeding, and while she understands intellectually that failure is part of growth, she doesn't always handle it well emotionally. She also struggles with balancing her commitments and has a tendency to believe she can take on more than is realistically possible.
What are your hobbies or interests? Volleyball, soccer, softball, swimming, science competitions, volunteering, murder mystery novels, collecting ridiculous novelty socks, hiking, camping, reading, student government, tutoring younger students, and anything related to medicine.
What do you really enjoy? Learning new things, accomplishing difficult goals, helping others, being outdoors, spending time with her family, and feeling useful.
What do you really dislike? Dishonesty, excuses, wasted time, being underestimated, feeling helpless, disappointing people, onions, and situations she can't fix.
What are your favorite things? Medical textbooks, coffee shops, early morning practices, science fairs, road trips, hiking trails, fresh notebooks, and checking things off a to-do list.
What do you fear? dentists and open water
Describe your personality in 100-500 words:

Meghan is the sort of person who always seems to be working toward something. Whether it's a better grade, a better batting rate, a leadership position, or a future career goal, she rarely goes very long without setting a new challenge for herself. She enjoys being busy and genuinely loves learning, which has made her successful in both academics and extracurricular activities.

Meghan has a tendency to take on too much, assume she can handle everything herself, and push forward long after she should have asked for help. She is also intensely competitive, though not necessarily with other people. More often than not, she is competing with the expectations she has for herself.

Despite her confidence, Meghan is far more sensitive to failure than most people realize. She hates disappointing others and can become surprisingly emotional when she believes she's fallen short. Unfortunately, that same tendency sometimes leads Meghan to hide mistakes, avoid difficult conversations, or convince herself she can solve problems on her own rather than asking for help. More than one situation has become significantly worse because she was determined to fix it before anyone found out.

Relationships & Behavior

How do you normally get along with adults? Very well. Meghan is respectful, responsible, and generally enjoys spending time with adults who share her interests.
How do you normally get along with teenagers? Well. Meghan has friends and is generally well-liked, though her competitive nature and high standards can sometimes make her seem intimidating or overly intense.
How do you normally get along with other children? Quite well. Meghan enjoys helping younger children and often volunteers for activities involving them.
How independent are you? Very. Meghan prides herself on being capable and responsible, and she prefers solving problems herself whenever possible.
How do you normally react when you get into trouble? It depends. If Meghan believes she is right, she will argue her position passionately. If she knows she is wrong, she often becomes quiet and withdrawn. Embarrassment tends to affect her more strongly than anger, and she sometimes attempts to solve problems on her own before admitting she needs help.
Link to your discipline sheet: click here ✅

How long have you lived at the Orphan Village? Since my family moved here.
Which House do you belong to? Birch House
Are you currently enrolled at the Orphan Village Academy or BWI College? Neither. I go to Birchwood Isle High.
What jobs or responsibilities do you have at the Orphan Village? Nothing official, though I volunteer whenever possible. I help with community events, recreational activities, tutoring younger students, and whatever else needs an extra set of hands.

How did you come to live at the Orphan Village? My parents were selected to help lead Birch House, so moving into the Orphan Village came with the job. I wasn't exactly consulted on the decision, but I've adjusted.

How do you generally get along with caregivers and authority figures? Very well. Most adults find me respectful, responsible, and easy to work with. That said, I do have a habit of asking questions and occasionally arguing my position when I think I'm right.

How do you generally get along with younger residents? Quite well. I enjoy helping younger children learn new things and gain confidence. Sometimes I can be a little overprotective, but I genuinely enjoy spending time with them.

How do you generally get along with your peers? Pretty well. I have friends and enjoy being involved in group activities, though my competitive streak and tendency to stay busy can occasionally make me seem a little intense.

Do you prefer to be adopted or remain in the Orphan Village? Remain in the Orphan Village. I already have a family.
Describe your ideal adoptive family. Not applicable.

Is there anything else we should know about how you get along in the Orphan Village? If there's a volunteer opportunity, school event, athletic competition, fundraiser, or community project happening somewhere in the village, there's a good chance I'll eventually show up.

Background

Describe your history in 150-1000 words:

Meghan was born into a busy household known for its activity levels and high academic expectations. Her father worked as an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine while her mother built a career within public education. Between hospital schedules, school events, athletic programs, and community activities, Meghan grew up surrounded by people who believed strongly in hard work, responsibility, and showing up for others.

From an early age, she was eager to be involved in whatever the adults around her were doing. She asked endless questions and volunteered for everything she was allowed to help with. By the time she reached middle school, she was already balancing academics, athletics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities.

Like her older brother, Meghan's life changed significantly during the Covid pandemic. She was old enough to understand that her father was carrying a tremendous burden, even if she didn't fully understand the details at the time. She watched the stress affect her family and saw firsthand how dramatically life could change when circumstances. The experience left a lasting impression on her and strengthened an interest in medicine that had already begun years earlier.

Relocating to Birchwood Isle came as a surprise. Meghan had always assumed her life would continue along a fairly predictable path: school, sports, academic competitions, college, medical school. Suddenly she found herself leaving behind friends, teams, and opportunities she'd spent years building toward. While the transition was difficult, she handled it better than most people expected. Someone had to. Owen was struggling enough for the entire family.

Like most things in her life, Meghan responded by throwing herself into the opportunities available to her. She became involved in school activities, athletics, volunteer work, and community programs.

Other

Is there anything else we need to know about you? I don't think so

[Bryna Anne Lynette]

Adolescent Application

Hi! My name is Bryna Anne Lynette and I in the 10th grade. I am 15 years old. Please use she/her pronouns when referring to me!

Basic Information

Full Name: Bryna Anne Lynette
Nickname, if Any: Bryn
Age: 15
Birthday: April 22
Sex: Female
Pronouns: she/her
Current Grade/Year in School, if Applicable: 10th grade
Current Occupation, if Applicable: student
Special Needs: None formally diagnosed. Has experienced significant childhood trauma and occasionally struggles with hypervigilance, nightmares, and trusting adults.

Appearance

Height: 5'2"
Build: Lean, athletic, wiry
Hair Color: dirty blonde
Eye Color: blue
Distinguishing Features: A faint scar along one cheek, numerous old scars across her thighs and legs, calloused hands, and a nose that has clearly been broken at least once.
Brief Description:  Bryn carries herself with quiet confidence, but is constantly paying attention to her surroundings. Her clothes are always practical and suited to her activities, from active wear to heavy jeans and boots, and she has a nearly constant array of scrapes, bruises, or dirt smudges that she's forgotten about. She has an athletic build that she comes by naturally.

Her dirty blonde hair is usually pulled back in a ponytail or braid to keep it out of her face. It's not common for her to spend time worrying about her appearance, even if she can clean up well when its required of her. Old scars cover much of her legs and a thin scar crosses one cheek -- she rarely discusses them and becomes uncomfortable if anyone asks.

Personality

What are your greatest strengths? List 5-10: Resourceful; brave; independent; loyal; courageous; determined; physically capable; protective; quick thinker; hard working; determined
What are your greatest weaknesses? List 5-10:  Distrustful; stubborn; argumentative; takes unnecessary risks; secretive; impulsive; defiant; bottles up emotions; emotionally guarded; sensitive; believes she knows best
What do you struggle with? Trusting adults, accepting help, admitting when she's scared or wrong, asking for emotional support, and believing that people care about her without expecting something in return. She also has a habit of assuming her own judgment is better than everyone else's.
What are your hobbies or interests? Hiking, running, camping, fishing, hunting, tracking wildlife, starting fires safely, boxing/sparring, target shooting, reading, identifying plants and animals, and spending as much time outdoors as possible.
What do you really enjoy? Fresh air, rainstorms, campfires, quiet mornings, challenging hikes, accomplishing difficult tasks, physical activity, learning outdoor survival skills, animals, and earning someone's respect rather than simply being given it.
What do you really dislike? Being underestimated, being lied to, feeling trapped, unnecessary rules, being treated like she's fragile, pity, crowded spaces, people making promises they don't intend to keep, and anyone trying to force emotional conversations before she's ready.
What are your favorite things? Forests, mountain trails, dogs, strong coffee, whiskey, well-worn hiking boots, thunderstorms, books about survival or exploration, homemade meals, autumn weather, and sleeping beneath the stars.
What do you fear? rooms that she's locked in. basements.
Describe your personality in 100-500 words:
At first meeting, Bryn often comes across as sarcastic, independent, and more than a little difficult. She asks questions instead of answering them, challenges rules she doesn't understand, and has a habit of making decisions for herself before anyone else has the chance. She doesn't trust easily, and she certainly doesn't hand out respect simply because someone happens to be older or in charge.

Underneath that stubborn exterior is someone who has spent most of her life surviving. Bryn learned early that relying on other people often led to disappointment or pain, so she became fiercely self-sufficient. She notices details many people overlook, adapts quickly to changing situations, and rarely panics under pressure. When something needs to be done, she'll usually figure out a way to do it.

Despite her rough edges, Bryn has a strong sense of fairness and an incredibly protective nature. She dislikes bullying, has little patience for people who prey on those weaker than themselves, and quietly looks out for younger children even if she'd never admit to it aloud. Once someone earns her trust, she is intensely loyal and willing to work hard for the people she considers family.

Relationships & Behavior

How do you normally get along with adults? Cautiously. Bryn tends to struggle when it comes to adults. She can be defiant, and it has frustrated more than a few people. She tends to test and push them before she can get attached because she has learned that a mistake can lose her, her relationships.
How do you normally get along with teenagers? Generally well. Bryn is easy to get along with when there isn't unnecessary drama. She enjoys friendly competition and appreciates people who are straightforward. She doesn't tolerate bullying or dishonesty very well.
How do you normally get along with other children?Surprisingly well. Younger children often find Bryn approachable because she's patient, willing to teach practical skills, and doesn't talk down to them. She might sometimes pretend to find them annoying, but she's naturally protective of them.
How independent are you? Extremely. Bryn prefers solving problems herself and often forgets that asking for help is an option. She's comfortable taking initiative and usually doesn't like relying on other people.
How do you normally react when you get into trouble? Her first instinct is usually to defend her reasoning rather than deny what happened. If she genuinely believes she was right, she'll argue her case. If she knows she made a mistake, she generally accepts the consequences once she's had her say, although she may not admit she agrees with them.

Link to your discipline sheet: click here ✅

Orphan Village

How long have you lived at the Orphan Village? Since the beginning of June
Which House do you belong to? Birch House
Are you currently enrolled at the Orphan Village Academy or BWI College? Orphan Village Academy
What jobs or responsibilities do you have at the Orphan Village? Helping maintain the jogging trails, walking Scout when needed, assisting with outdoor chores, helping organize recreation equipment, and occasionally helping out with kitchen chores.

How did you come to live at the Orphan Village? Following the death of her biological father, Bryn spent time in several foster placements throughout Birchwood Isle. One lasted much longer than the others, and for a while she believed she'd finally found somewhere permanent. When that placement unexpectedly came to an end, it reinforced the belief that no home ever lasted forever. Several shorter placements followed, each ending with another move and another fresh start. By the time the Orphan Village opened, Bryn had become accustomed to living out of boxes and assuming that every place she stayed was temporary.

How do you generally get along with caregivers and authority figures? It takes time, and there is often some tension. Bryn can be defiant, disrespectful, and rude. Some adults are immediately put off by it, and it's ruined some placements before they could even get started. Other adults see past that layer, but the truth is that it depends. She's guarded and hesitant to trust, but also desperate to have what she's seen so many others gain successfully.

How do you generally get along with younger residents? Quite well. Bryn enjoys teaching practical skills and often finds herself looking out for younger residents, even if she'd insist she's "just making sure they don't do anything stupid."

How do you generally get along with your peers? Pretty well overall. She enjoys joking around, friendly competition, and shared activities, though she keeps most people at arm's length emotionally until she knows them well.

Do you prefer to be adopted or remain in the Orphan Village? Bryn tells people she doesn't care either way. The truth is she's been moved enough times that she's stopped expecting placements to last. She'd still like a family someday, but only if they're prepared to keep her. She's far more afraid of another temporary home than she is of remaining at the Orphan Village.

Describe your ideal adoptive family. Bryn has always connected more easily with men than women, and she generally feels more comfortable around male authority figures. She would likely do best in an active household with at least one dependable father figure. More than anything else, she needs adults who are committed to staying, even when she makes herself difficult to love.

Is there anything else we should know about how you get along in the Orphan Village? Bryn settles in best when she has meaningful responsibilities and opportunities to stay active. She responds well to clear expectations and consistent follow-through.

Background

Describe your history in 150-1000 words: Bryn's childhood was marked by instability, fear, and frequent moves. Her mother died when she was young, leaving her to be raised by her father, a career Marine whose discipline often crossed the line into abuse. Home was unpredictable. Punishments could be severe, tempers could flare without warning, and Bryn learned very quickly that surviving often meant staying alert, adapting quickly, and depending on no one but herself.

As her father's military career moved them from place to place, Bryn spent time with relatives, family friends, and temporary caregivers whenever he deployed. Few of those arrangements lasted long enough to become permanent, and she eventually stopped expecting them to. Instead, she poured her energy into learning practical skills. She became an accomplished hiker, camper, fisher, hunter, and boxer, finding confidence in abilities that nobody could take away from her.

When her father died unexpectedly, Bryn found herself without a permanent home. Several placements failed, not because she was violent or deliberately disruptive, but because she struggled to trust the adults responsible for her care. She questioned authority, preferred solving problems herself, and had difficulty believing that any placement would last.

One placement lasted longer than the others. Bryn spent more than a year living with a psychiatrist named Christian Kearney, and for the first time in a long while she began to believe she might finally have found somewhere permanent. Then, without warning or explanation she could understand, he was simply gone.

After that came another placement, and another, and another. Most lasted only a few months. Some stretched close to a year. The explanation was usually the same in one form or another -- they weren't the right fit. Over time, Bryn stopped hearing those words. What she heard instead was that she was too much trouble to keep around.

By the time she arrived at the Orphan Village, she'd become accustomed to living out of boxes, learning new houses, and assuming that every place she stayed was temporary. It's made trusting caregivers exceptionally difficult. Bryn doesn't just need to believe that someone cares about her; she needs to believe they'll still be there six months from now.

Other

Is there anything else we need to know about you? If Bryn disappears during her free time, she's almost certainly outside. She thinks best while moving and usually returns muddy, tired, and in a much better mood than when she left. Beneath the sarcasm and independence is a teenager who wants what every young person wants: a place where she belongs and people who won't give up on her.

[Nathaniel Gregory Boone]

Adult Application

Hi! My name is Nate Boone and I am a day worker at Cedar House. I am 50 years old. Please use he/him when referring to me!

Basic Information

Where do you live? Northern Isle
Are you married? If yes, to whom? Yes. To Claire Boone.
Do you have any children? If yes, list them. Ethan (18), Gemma (16), and Luke (11)
Is your family open to adopting children or adolescents? Yes. We've talked about it for years. Right now we're focused on raising our own children well, but our home has always been open to the idea if we felt we were the right family for a particular child.

Appearance
Height: 6'1"
Build: Broad shouldered, muscular
Hair Color: Dark brown with plenty of gray beginning at the temples
Eye Color: Brown
Distinguishing Features: Rough, calloused hands. Weathered complexion. Short beard. A faded scar across one forearm from an old car accident.
Brief Description: Nathaniel is a broad-shouldered man with the solid build of someone who has spent decades working with his hands. Years as a carpenter have left him with calloused palms, strong forearms, and an easy confidence. His dark hair has begun to gray at the temples, complementing a neatly trimmed beard that frames a weathered but approachable face. Warm brown eyes are often accompanied by an easy smile, even if they can sharpen noticeably when a situation warrants it.

He dresses for practicality, favoring worn jeans, sturdy work boots, and flannel or work shirts with the sleeves rolled to his forearms. Whether he's carrying lumber, helping a child learn to use a hand plane, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon on his porch, Nate carries himself with the calm assurance of a man who rarely rushes and believes that taking the time to do something properly is almost always worth it.

Personality
Strengths: Dependable; patient; practical; hands on; honest; calm; hardworking; protective; fair; encouraging; observant
Flaws: Stubborn; opinionated; assertive; meddlesome; blunt; demanding; restless; fixer
Likes: woodworking; coffee before sunrise; grilling; fishing; family dinners; backyard barbecues; country music; well-made tools; home improvement projects; watching people learn new skills; quiet evenings on the porch
Dislikes: carelessness; excuses; wasting materials; broken promises; quitting halfway through a job; needless drama; laziness; dishonesty; refusal to own mistakes; wastefulness
Vices: cigarettes
Fears: helplessness
Personality: Nate is steady and more approachable than his size and rough edges might suggest at first. He has a natural presence that makes people pay attention when he speaks, which serves him well. Ultimately, he's the sort of man who believes in saying what he means, doing what he says, and leaving things better than he found them when he can. His sense of humor is dry, and his patience is strongest when someone is genuinely trying, but his tolerance is shortest when they know better and choose wrong anyway.

He isn't particularly sentimental in public, but he is deeply devoted to his family and quietly affectionate with the people he cares about. Nate shows love through action. He fixes the porch step before anyone trips over it, warms up the car before his wife has to leave, checks the pantry without being asked, and notices when a child has been unusually quiet all morning. He's more likely to hand someone a plate, tool, or task than launch into a speech, but he also isn't emotionally absent. He just believes most problems are easier to deal with when your hands are busy.

He has high expectations that he genuinely believes children and adolescents are capable of meeting them. He's not looking for perfection, but he expects effort, honesty, and accountability. He's warm enough that residents tend to like him, but firm enough that they usually know better than to push too far. When he says a matter is settled, he means it.


Relationships & Discipline

How do you normally get along with other adults?Nate generally gets along well with other adults, especially those who are direct, dependable, and willing to do their share of the work. He isn't difficult to work with, but he doesn't have much patience for adults who complain more than they contribute. He respects competence, honesty, and follow-through.

He is comfortable taking direction from house leadership and doesn't need to be the loudest voice in the room.
How do you normally get along with teenagers? Nate does well with teenagers, especially those who are defensive, restless, or convinced they already know everything. He doesn't take attitude personally unless it becomes disrespectful enough to require correction. He tends to give teenagers practical responsibilities and expects them to rise to the occasion.

He isn't easily impressed by excuses or dramatic explanations. A teenager who tries to talk circles around him will usually find that Nate is perfectly willing to wait them out. However, he is also good at recognizing effort. A teenager who works hard, tells the truth, or tries again after messing up will usually earn his respect quickly
How do you normally get along with children? Nate is patient with children, especially when they are curious or eager to help. He likes teaching them small, useful things: how to sweep properly, how to carry something safely, how to hold a hammer, how to put tools back where they belong, how to clean up after a project, or how to apologize without being prompted three times.

He can be firm with children when needed, but he isn't harsh for the sake of being harsh. Younger children usually find him reassuring because he is consistent and predictable. He doesn't panic easily, doesn't make empty threats, and doesn't change the rules depending on his mood.
Link to your discipline sheet: click here ✅

Orphan Village

What is your role at the Orphan Village? Day Worker
Which house or building do you work for? Cedar House
Do you live in the Village or commute? Commute
Do you have any special training, certification, or skills relevant to your role? I served one enlistment in the United States Army and was honorably discharged. Afterward, I completed vocational training and a carpentry apprenticeship, then worked as a carpenter for most of my adult life. I owned and operated my own carpentry business before coming to Birchwood Isle.
Do you prefer to work with a particular age group? Which one? I work especially well with older children and teenagers. I like the age where they are old enough to take on real responsibility and young enough that learning to do something properly can still change how they see themselves.
Do you struggle with a particular age group? Which one? I sometimes have to be more intentional with very young children. I am comfortable with them, but my instincts lean practical, and little ones don't always need a solution as much as they need reassurance.

Briefly describe your caregiving or mentoring style. My style is steady, hands-on, and direct. I believe children build confidence by becoming capable. That means learning how to work, how to listen, how to finish what they start, how to admit when they are wrong, and how to try again without falling apart.

I don't believe in ignoring small problems until they become big ones. If a resident lies, disrespects someone, breaks a known rule, or behaves carelessly, I prefer to address it immediately and clearly. Once the consequence is handled, though, it's handled. I don't believe in dragging yesterday's mistake into every conversation.
Describe how you see your role in the village. I see my role as helping Cedar House residents start the day with structure, accountability, and a sense of purpose. I'm there for the early hours: waking up, breakfast, morning chores, getting ready for school, supervising residents who remain in the house, helping with projects, and stepping in when behavior needs to be corrected.

Cedar House is built around discovery and making, and that suits me. I like helping young people learn that they're capable of more than they thought. Sometimes that means teaching them how to build something. Sometimes it means teaching them how to clean up a mess they made, repair something they damaged, or face a consequence without making it worse.

Is there anything else we should know about your role in the Village? I'm not a therapist, teacher, or house parent, and I don't pretend to be. I'm a caregiver, a mentor, and a steady adult presence during the first half of the day.

Background

Education: High school diploma. One enlistment in the United States Army. Vocational carpentry training and a completed carpentry apprenticeship after leaving the service.
Work History: Army. Carpenter.
Current Goals or Challenges: Nate is adjusting to working in a caregiving role rather than running his own business. He's used to being responsible for the work, the schedule, and the final result, so learning to operate as part of a larger staff has required patience and humility.

At home, he and his wife are preparing for another baby while continuing to raise their three children. Nate is excited, but he's also aware that starting over with an infant at fifty is no small thing.
Reason for Living on Birchwood Isle: My wife and I wanted to raise our family somewhere steady, close-knit, and intentional. Birchwood Isle offered that. We liked the sense of community and slower rhythm.
Brief History: Nate Boone grew up in a working-class family where expectations were clear. He learned early that if something broke, someone had to fix it, and if work needed doing, standing around complaining didn't get it done. He wasn't a perfect boy, but he had parents in his life who believed correction was part of love and responsibility was something children needed to practice before adulthood arrived.

After high school, Nate enlisted in the Army. He didn't make a lifelong career of it, but the service left its mark on him. He learned discipline, punctuality, physical endurance, and how much people depend on one another when things get rough. When his enlistment ended, he returned to civilian life. He used his benefits to pursue carpentry, completed an apprenticeship, and found a trade that suited him. Carpentry gave him structure without making every day the same. It required patience, precision, strength, and pride in work other people might never notice.

Over the years, Nate built a stable life. He married Claire, raised a family, and opened his own carpentry business. He liked the work, but he discovered that one of the most satisfying parts of the job was teaching apprentices. He liked watching someone go from clumsy and uncertain to capable. He liked the moment when a young worker stopped waiting to be told every step and began seeing what needed doing on their own.

Moving to Birchwood Isle gave the Boone family a new chapter. Nate wasn't looking to reinvent himself so much as put his experience to better use. Cedar House needed day workers, and its focus on discovery, making, and supervised hands-on projects felt like a natural fit. These days, Nate spends his mornings at the Orphan Village and his afternoons at home with his family. He's still building things, but it just looks different than it did before.

[Claire Lenore Boone]

Adult Application

Hi! My name is Claire Lenore Boone, and I am a homemaker. I am 40 years old. Please use she/her when referring to me!

Basic Information

Where do you live? Northern Isle
Are you married? If yes, to whom? Yes. To Nathaniel Boone.
Do you have any children? If yes, list them. Yes. Ethan (18), Gemma (16), Luke (11), and one more on the way.
Is your family open to adopting children or adolescents? Yes. Nathaniel and I have talked about adoption for years. We believe every child deserves a family, and if we truly believed we were the right fit for a particular child or adolescent, we'd gladly welcome them into ours.

Appearance
Height: 5'7"
Build: Curvy, healthy, and active
Hair Color: Brown
Eye Color: Hazel
Distinguishing Features: Expressive eyes, an easy smile, and a wedding ring that she never takes off.
Brief Description: Claire has the warm sort of appearance that naturally puts people at ease, right up until she's disappointed with someone. She carries herself with a quiet elegance, favoring dresses or outfits that look well put together the majority of the time. She's the type of woman who vacuums in pearls, wears a dress cover-up at the beach, and prefers an apron in the kitchen to dressing down, though she'll happily trade it for old clothes when she's working in the garden.

While she has a naturally kind face, she also possesses a remarkably effective "mother's look" that has ended many arguments before they ever truly began.

Personality
Strengths: Loyal; organized; decisive; protective; hospitable; hardworking; honest; perceptive; confident; nurturing
Flaws: Impatient; stubborn; quick-tempered; opinionated; demanding; controlling; blunt; struggles to relax; takes on too much responsibility
Likes: Baking; gardening; family dinners; holidays; fresh flowers; reading; hosting guests; coffee; church; babies; beach days
Dislikes: Lying; excuses; backtalk; disrespect; wasted food; dirty kitchens; unfinished chores; manipulation; laziness; unnecessary drama
Vices: Coffee
Fears: Losing a child. She watched how it destroyed her own mother.
Personality: Claire has always believed that families are built intentionally -- one conversation, one meal, one correction, and one act of love at a time. She says all the time that "love grows," and she means it. It takes more than one mistake or misstep to ruin something that has grown steadily over time and been properly nourished. 

Running the Boone household has never been a matter of settling -- it was what she wanted, and she never sacrificed any big dreams or plans for it. Her family was her big dream. She takes pride in what she does. She knows where everyone's supposed to be, what everyone's got going on, and usually notices when something is wrong well before anyone says a word.

While naturally warm, Claire also has a fiery streak. She's quicker to anger than her husband. She doesn't enjoy disciplining children, but she does believe that delaying necessary consequences usually makes things worse. Once she's decided that punishment is deserved, she carries it out confidently, fairly, and without apology.

Despite her stricter nature, Claire forgives easily once a matter has been resolved.

Relationships & Discipline

How do you normally get along with other adults? Very well. Claire has a close group of friends she sees regularly, along with many other neighbors whose homes she's comfortable dropping by and who are always welcome in hers.
How do you normally get along with teenagers? Claire appreciates teenagers for the stage of life that they're in, and does her best to respect it as much as possible. She's been known to have her moments with her own, especially when they've gotten themselves into some hot water, but ultimately, she can understand that they're in a tricky part of development while still holding them to the same standard she always has.
How do you normally get along with children? Claire enjoys children and has a gift for making them feel safe, loved, and included. But she also believes that children thrive when they know exactly where the boundaries are. She's affectionate, playful, and encouraging, but she also expects good manners, obedience, and respect. Children that spend time with Claire know they're deeply loved, but they also know she means what she says.
Link to your discipline sheet: click here ✅


Background

Education: High School Diploma
Work History: Claire has spent most of her life as a homemaker, but she's known for volunteering through churches, community events, youth programs, and neighborhood organizations.
Current Goals or Challenges: Claire is preparing to welcome another child into the family while continuing to support her older children as they become increasingly independent
Reason for Living on Birchwood Isle:Nate discovered Birchwood Isle and was willing to cash everything in to move their family. Upon discovering everything the island believed in, including more traditional discipline that they'd always upheld with their children themselves, Claire had agreed that it was worth looking into.
Brief History: Claire grew up in a loving, close-knit family where the expectation was simple: if you were old enough to contribute, you did. Family dinners happened around the table, chores were completed before anyone disappeared to do something more enjoyable, and children were corrected when they stepped out of line because her parents believed discipline was part of raising responsible adults. She grew up knowing she was deeply loved, but she also knew that love came with expectations.

When Claire was a teenager, her family experienced the devastating loss of one of her siblings. Watching her parents navigate that grief, especially her mother, changed the way she looked at family forever. It taught her that tomorrow is never guaranteed and that the people you love deserve your time, attention, and your whole heart today.

She met Nathaniel not long after he returned home from the Army. He was beginning his apprenticeship as a carpenter, while Claire was just beginning to imagine the kind of family she hoped to have someday. They shared a lot of the same values from the beginning -- faith, responsibility, honesty, and the belief that children needed both affection and accountability. They married when she was twenty one, welcomed Ethan soon afterward, and never looked back. Gemma and Luke followed over the years, and Claire happily devoted herself to raising them, volunteering throughout the community, and creating the kind of home where neighbors always felt welcome.

When Nathaniel first learned about Birchwood Isle, the move sounded almost too good to be true. The more the two of them learned, however, the more convinced they became that it reflected the kind of life they had already been trying to build. A community where children were surrounded by caring adults, families knew one another, accountability was taken seriously, and traditional values were embraced felt like somewhere they belonged. Nathaniel accepted a position at Cedar House, Claire packed up the family, and together they began the next chapter of their lives. Today, with another baby on the way, Claire continues to believe what she always has: that strong families aren't built by accident -- they're built one ordinary day at a time.

[Graham Thomas Shepherd]

Adult Application

Hi! My name is Graham Thomas Shepherd, and I am a First Shift Day Worker at Birch House. I am 44 years old. Please use he/him when referring to me!

Basic Information

Where do you live? Northern Isle
Are you married? If yes, to whom? Yes. Laurel Elizabeth Shepherd.
Do you have any children? If yes, list them. Yes. (To Be Determined.)
Is your family open to adopting children or adolescents? Absolutely. Laurel and I believe that family is built through commitment. Adoption is a lifelong responsibility, not a temporary act of kindness, and if we believed we were the right fit for a particular child or adolescent, we would gladly welcome them into our home.

Appearance

Height: 6'1"
Build: Broad-shouldered, athletic
Hair Color: Dark Blonde
Eye Color: Blue
Distinguishing Features: Light stubble, weathered hands, faint scar along his left forearm.
Brief Description:

Graham is the sort of man who looks equally at home in a flannel shirt as he does in a collared one. Years spent coaching ball games, working around the house, and spending time outdoors have left him with a sturdy build and a naturally confident posture without ever appearing imposing. He carries himself with quiet confidence. His face is expressive in subtle ways. He smiles easily, particularly around children, but when he grows serious, it's usually his eyes that change first. Graham has a habit of folding his arms while listening and giving people his full attention before speaking. More often than not, he can be found dressed practically in jeans, boots, and a button-up shirt with his sleeves rolled to his forearms.

Personality

Strengths: Dependable, Patient, Fair, Observant, Organized, Honest, Consistent, Loyal, Calm Under Pressure, Hardworking

Flaws: Stubborn, Overly Analytical, Slow to Change His Mind, Holds Himself to Unrealistic Standards, Finds It Difficult to Delegate, Can Become Overly Serious, Has Trouble Letting Go of Mistakes

Likes: Coffee, Early Mornings, Hiking, Baseball, Family Dinners, Fishing, Reading History, Yard Work, Well-Made Notebooks, Quiet Evenings

Dislikes: Dishonesty, Chronic Lateness, Broken Promises, Gossip, Carelessness, Wasted Potential, Excuses, Leaving Work Half Finished, Needless Waste

Vices: Coffee and Pipe Tobacco

Fears: Dying of Tetanus

Personality:

Graham believes that consistency is one of the greatest gifts an adult can offer a child. He's patient, thoughtful, and rarely raises his voice, preferring to listen carefully before jumping to conclusions. While some mistake his quiet nature for softness, those who know him understand that once Graham has made a decision, he follows through without hesitation. To him, kids deserve adults who mean what they say and keep their promises.

Years spent working in education taught him that isolated incidents rarely ever tell the whole story. Rather than reacting only to individual mistakes, Graham naturally looks for patterns, recognizing that repeated behaviors often reveal needs or habits that require long-term attention. To that end, he keeps careful notes on progress, setbacks, accomplishments, and recurring concerns, believing that children should be judged by the entirety of their growth rather than by their worst day.

Outside of work, Graham enjoys a quiet, predictable life centered around his family. He values shared meals, meaningful conversations, and simple routines that bring people together. Although discipline is something he takes seriously, it represents only one small part of who he is. He is just as likely to be found helping someone repair a bicycle, attending a school event, or spending an afternoon fishing as he is addressing misconduct.

Relationships & Discipline

How do you normally get along with other adults?

Very well. Graham is respectful, approachable, and he values teamwork. He enjoys working alongside people who are dependable and appreciates honest communication, even when opinions differ.

How do you normally get along with teenagers?

Very well. Graham enjoys working with adolescents and believes they deserve the same honesty and respect expected of adults. He maintains high expectations while recognizing that mistakes are part of growing up.

How do you normally get along with children?

Very well. Children quickly learn that Graham is dependable. He's patient, enjoys teaching practical life skills, and makes an effort to notice progress just as much as he notices mistakes.

Link to your discipline sheet: click here ✅

Orphan Village

What is your role at the Orphan Village? First Shift Day Worker

Which house or building do you work for? Birch House

Do you live in the Village or commute? Commute

Do you have any special training, certification, or skills relevant to your role?

Bachelor's Degree in Biology with an education certificate, Master's Degree in Educational Leadership, CPR and First Aid certified, former Assistant Principal with extensive experience in student behavior management, conflict resolution, and educational leadership.

Do you prefer to work with a particular age group? Which one?

Middle and high school students. Graham enjoys helping adolescents develop responsibility during the years when lifelong habits are often formed.

Do you struggle with a particular age group? Which one?

Not particularly. Graham believes every stage of childhood presents unique opportunities and challenges.

Briefly describe your caregiving or mentoring style.

Graham believes structure creates security. He sets clear expectations, follows through consistently, and strives to ensure every consequence has a purpose beyond simple punishment. He values honesty, accountability, and personal growth, taking time to recognize positive progress as readily as he addresses mistakes. He's all about helping kids grow.

Describe how you see your role in the village.

I see my role as one small part of a much larger team. Every child deserves adults who communicate with and support one another, as well as present consistent expectations. Whether I'm helping with morning routines, offering guidance, or addressing difficult behavior, I want children to know they'll receive the same fairness, honesty, and accountability every single day.

Is there anything else we should know about your role in the Village?

Graham maintains detailed notes regarding the progress of the residents he works with. These notes are confidential and are intended to help identify long-term patterns, recognize personal growth, and ensure that children are evaluated fairly over time rather than solely by isolated incidents.

Background

Education:

Bachelor of Science in Biology
Education Certification
Master of Education in Educational Leadership

Work History:

After several years teaching high school biology, Graham accepted a position as an assistant principal, where he spent more than a decade working closely with students, teachers, and families to improve behavior, attendance, and academic success. He later accepted a position with the Orphan Village after deciding he wanted to work in an environment where long-term mentoring and consistent accountability were central to the community's philosophy.

Current Goals or Challenges:

To help establish consistent routines that allow every child in the Village to succeed while continuing to balance the needs of his own family alongside his responsibilities to the wider community.

Reason for Living on Birchwood Isle:

Graham and Laurel were drawn to Birchwood Isle because it represented the kind of community they had always hoped to be part of. Both believed children thrive when surrounded by adults who share common values, communicate openly, and prioritize accountability, compassion, and stability.

Brief History:

Graham was raised in a close-knit family where responsibility was simply considered part of daily life. From an early age he learned the importance of keeping promises, contributing to the household, and accepting the consequences of his choices without complaint. Those lessons stayed with him long after he reached adulthood.

After completing college, Graham began his career as a high school teacher before eventually becoming an assistant principal. Although he enjoyed leadership, he found himself increasingly frustrated by an educational environment that often emphasized reacting to individual incidents rather than addressing the underlying patterns that produced them. He became convinced that children benefited most from consistency, meaningful accountability, and adults who worked together rather than independently.

When Graham and Laurel learned about Birchwood Isle, they recognized a community that reflected many of the same values they had spent years trying to foster elsewhere. Together, they chose to build their lives there, believing that every child deserves a stable home and clear expectations. Today, Graham continues to approach every interaction with the same philosophy that has guided him throughout his career: children are far more than the mistakes they make, and genuine growth is almost always the result of patience, consistency, and unwavering follow through.

[Laurel Elizabeth Shepherd]

Adult Application

Hi! My name is Laurel Elizabeth Shepherd and I am a middle school teacher at Orphan Village. I am 42 years old. Please use she/her when referring to me!

Basic Information

Where do you live? Northern Isle
Are you married? If yes, to whom? Yes. To Graham Shepherd
Do you have any children? If yes, list them. Yes (To Be Determined)
Is your family open to adopting children or adolescents? Absolutely. Graham and I have always believed that every child deserves adults who are willing to invest in them wholeheartedly.

Appearance
Height: 5' 8"
Build: athletic, slender
Hair Color: blonde
Eye Color: blue
Distinguishing Features: warm smile, expressive eyes, often wears cardigans or practical dresses to school.
Brief Description: Laurel has the kind of presence that immediately puts people at ease. She smiles easily and carries herself with quiet confidence from years of standing in front of classrooms full of adolescents. While she dresses professionally for work, practicality influences nearly every part of her wardrobe. She wears comfortable shoes, simple jewelry, and clothing she can move freely in.

Outside of school, Laurel has no reason to dress any differently. Jeans, sweaters, boots, and comfortable jackets are staples throughout the year. Whether she's helping in the garden, attending a school function, or cheering from the sidelines at a sporting event, she always looks approachable.

Personality
Strengths: compassionate; patient; fair; organized; encouraging; adaptable; dependable; insightful; calm; honest
Flaws: stubborn; overly determined; agonizing; assertive; critical; self-critical; meddlesome; opinionated
Likes: reading; fresh bread; gardening; coffee; lesson planning; baking; family game nights; hiking; autumn; lighting candles around the house; tea in the evening; everyone gathering around the table; when kids bring her things that they've discovered and ask questions
Dislikes: bullying; cruelty; cheating; disrespect; wasted potential; breaking up fights; parent-teacher conferences due to poor behavior; backchat; public embarrassment; needless dishonesty; half-hearted effort
Vices: dark chocolate
Fears: rip tides and sharks
Personality: Laurel has always believed that education goes well past textbooks and report cards, happening in the little moments as much as the big. Every interaction, success, and mistake presents an opportunity to teach, and she does her best not to waste those. Whether she's explaining a science concept, mediating a disagreement, or addressing misconduct, she approaches each situation with the belief that personal character is developed through everyday lessons and not the handful of life-changing ones.

Years in the classroom have given her an understanding of adolescents. She recognizes the difference between genuine confusion, poor judgment, embarrassment, and deliberate defiance, which allows her to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting emotionally. While she is warm and approachable, her students quickly learn that she isn't permissive. Expectations are communicated clearly, and she follows through consistently when those expectations aren't met.

Outside of school, Laurel's greatest joy comes from her family. She treasures the time that she gets to spend with them, whether that's through shared meals, summer sporting events or even the ordinary routines that create long-lasting memories. She believes that children flourish when they're deeply loved, but also that love sometimes requires difficult conversations and meaningful consequences.

Relationships & Discipline

How do you normally get along with other adults? Very well. Laurel enjoys collaborating with others and believes the best outcomes are achieved when adults communicate openly and support one another. She's approachable, dependable, and values honesty over simply avoiding conflict.
How do you normally get along with teenagers? Exceptionally well. Working with adolescents has been the focus of Laurel's career for many years. She enjoys their curiosity, humor, and growing independence, while recognizing they still need adults willing to provide clear boundaries and consistent guidance.
How do you normally get along with children? Very well. Younger children generally find Laurel approachable and patient. She enjoys encouraging curiosity, celebrating accomplishments, and helping children develop confidence in themselves.
Link to your discipline sheet: click here

Orphan Village

What is your role at the Orphan Village? Grade 6-8 Teacher
Which house or building do you work for? Orphan Village Academy
Do you live in the Village or commute? Commute
Do you have any special training, certification, or skills relevant to your role? Bachelors Degree in Middle School Education, CPR and First Aid certification, classroom management training, curriculum development, adolescent literacy instruction
Do you prefer to work with a particular age group? Which one? Middle school students. Laurel enjoys helping youngsters navigate the transition between childhood and adolescence while encouraging both academic and personal growth.
Do you struggle with a particular age group? Which one? Not particularly. Every age group presents unique opportunities and challenges, though Laurel feels most at home working with middle school students.

Briefly describe your caregiving or mentoring style. Laurel believes children learn best when expectations are clear, consequences are fair, and successes receive just as much attention as mistakes. She emphasizes accountability while remaining approachable, encouraging youngsters to ask questions, think critically about their choices, and learn from their experiences. Whether inside or outside the classroom, her goal is always to teach rather than simply correct.

Describe how you see your role in the village. I see myself as both a teacher and a trusted adult. Every child deserves someone who believes in their ability to grow, even when they struggle to believe it themselves. My classroom is only one part of that responsibility. Whether I'm teaching literature, helping resolve a disagreement, or encouraging a student who's having a difficult week, I hope to provide consistency, encouragement, and honest guidance every day.

Is there anything else we should know about your role in the Village? Because every student at the Academy also lives within the Village, Laurel works closely with caregivers to ensure children receive consistent expectations and support across both school and home. She believes communication between adults is one of the strongest predictors of a child's success.


Background

Education: Bachelor of Arts in Middle School Education
Work History: Laurel spent nearly two decades teaching middle school English and Language Arts before joining the Orphan Village Academy. Throughout her career she became known for maintaining an orderly classroom built upon mutual respect, high expectations, and genuine care for her students.
Current Goals or Challenges: To help every student leave middle school with not only strong academic skills, but the confidence, resilience, and character necessary to thrive throughout the rest of their lives.
Reason for Living on Birchwood Isle: Laurel and Graham were searching for a community where education and caregiving worked hand in hand. Birchwood Isle offered an opportunity to become part of a close-knit group that shared many of the same values they had spent years trying to foster in their own home.
Brief History:

Laurel grew up in a family that valued education, kindness, and personal responsibility in equal measure. Encouraged by several teachers who recognized her natural ability to connect with others, she discovered early that she wanted to spend her life working with young people.

After earning her teaching degree, Laurel began teaching middle school English, quickly discovering that she loved the unique challenges presented by early adolescence. She believed those years represented one of the most important periods of a child's development -- when confidence, character, and lifelong habits were often established. Over time, she's developed a reputation for running an orderly classroom where students feel respected, challenged, and genuinely cared for.

When Graham accepted a position at Birchwood Isle, Laurel immediately recognized the opportunity that it was and looked into positions for herself. The close partnership between teachers, caregivers, and families reflected many of the values she had spent years advocating for in traditional schools. Together they chose to make the Island their home.

[Nora Jeanine Dawson]

Child Application

Hi! My name is Nora Jeanine Dawson and I am a 7th grader. I am 12 years old. Please use she/her when referring to me!

Basic Information

Full Name: Nora Jeanine Dawson
Nickname, if Any: Nora
Age: 12
Birthday: April 24
Sex: Female
Pronouns: She/Her
Current Grade in School: 7th Grade
Special Needs: None

Personality

What are your greatest strengths? List 5-10: Curious; optimistic; friendly; creative; compassionate; quick learner; enthusiastic; imaginative; adaptable; honest
What are your greatest weaknesses? List 5-10: gives up easily; low frustration tolerance; impatient; dramatic; competitive; easily distracted; dislikes asking for help; stubborn; easily discouraged; overeager; easily overstimulated
What do you struggle with? Nora struggles to keep going once something stops being fun or easy. She loves learning new things, but the moment she realizes that she isn't immediately good at it, she's quick to convince herself that it means that it isn't for her. She has difficulty finishing projects, sticking with long-term commitments, and pushing through frustration. She knows that she's capable of more than she gives herself credit for, but discouragement takes over quickly.
What are your hobbies or interests? Baking; gardening; woodworking; music; painting; drawing; reading; hiking; various sports; bird watching; learning random facts; collecting rocks and feathers; pressing flowers; trying new crafts
What do you really enjoy? Learning things she's never tried before, spending time outside, helping with projects, baking for someone else, discovering new hobbies, making friends, exploring nature
What do you really dislike? Being bad at something, being watched while she's learning, having to admit that she needs help, needing help, feeling left behind, being compared to someone more experienced, long periods of boredom
What are your favorite things? fresh bread with butter; blueberries; golden retrievers; wild flowers; the sound of rain on a tin roof; oversized hoodies; colored pencils; libraries; campfires; sunflowers; school supply shopping; shopping for things for a new activity or sport; brand new notebooks; sharpened pencils; hardware stores; bird feeders; craft aisles; county fairs; carnivals; funnel cakes
What do you fear? Being left behind. Discovering she isn't good enough. Death of another parent.
Describe your personality in 100-500 words: Nora's the kind of girl who throws herself into new experiences eagerly with wholehearted enthusiasm. Curious by nature, she's always looking for the opportunity to learn a new skill, start a hobby, or volunteer for the next interesting project. She asks endless questions, makes friends easily and has an infectious excitement that often encourages others to join in. Her optimism makes her fun to be around, and she genuinely believes that every new interest might become her next great passion.

Unfortunately, more often than not, Nora's excitement fades almost as quickly as it arrives. The moment she realizes that she isn't immediately good at something, she gets discouraged. She becomes dramatic, begins to insist that she's "just not meant for it", and often tries to walk away before giving herself the chance to improve. It's not laziness, lack of intelligence, or even ability -- she genuinely struggles to believ that mastery comes through practice rather than talent.

Despite her challenges, Nora is kind, thoughtful, and resilient in ways she's usually blind to. She recovers quickly after setbacks, apologizes sincerely when she's wrong, and never stops being curious about the world around her. Underneath her frustration is a very capable young girl who just needs someone to believe in her long enough for her to begin believing in herself. And maybe someone who's willing to hold her accountable for the commitments that she makes and demand follow-through.

Relationships & Behavior

How do you normally get along with adults? Nora generally gets along well with adults. She's friendly, talkative, and enjoys helping with just about anything, especially if it's new. She appreciates adults that are willing to teach her and answer her endless questions. 
How do you normally get along with teenagers? Nora looks up to teenagers and often thinks that they're the coolest people in the room. She curious about what they're doing and enjoys joining in when they'll have her. She can also be a little snoopy. Sometimes she compares herself them too much and becomes discouraged when they seem to "learn" or are better at things than she is.
How do you normally get along with other children? Nora makes friends easily. She's enthusiastic and imaginative, and she's almost always willing to include someone else in whatever she's doing. She enjoys sharing new interests with other children even if she occasionally becomes frustrated if they seem to pick up a skill faster than she can. Fortunately, she bounces back pretty quickly.
How independent are you? Moderately so. After years of moving between different homes, Nora's become adaptable and learns new routines quickly. She doesn't mind doing her own thing, but she's much more confident when she knows someone is nearby if she gets stuck. Asking for help doesn't come naturally once she gets frustrated.
How do you normally react when you get into trouble? Nora's usually aware when she's made a poor decision and doesn't spend much time denying it. If she's still upset about whatever led to the trouble, she might sigh dramatically, complain, argue that something is unfair, or even blurt out, "I don't want to!" Once she realizes the consequence isn't changing, she settles fairly quickly. Afterward, she's usually apologetic and eager to put the whole thing behind her.
Link to your discipline sheet: click here ✅

Orphan Village

How long have you lived at the Orphan Village? Since the beginning of June
Which House do you belong to? Cedar House
What is your grade in school? 7th Grade

How did you come to live in the Orphan Village? After years of moving between relatives and family friends, she was brought to Birchwood Isle and Orphan Village.

Who are your favorite people in the Orphan Village? to be determined
What are your favorite places in the Orphan Village? Science and discovery nook;  the Cedar House workshop; pollinator garden; LEGO and model-building room; music room; work pavilion; swimming pool; volleyball court; the trails
What are your favorite things to do in the Orphan Village? trying new projects; helping in the workshop; baking; exploring; collecting interesting rocks and feathers; craft projects; sports; swimming in the pool; building things; playing board games

How do you get along with caregivers and authority figures in the Orphan Village? Usually pretty well. Nora enjoys adults who are willing to teach her new things and answer her endless questions. Her biggest disagreements usually happen when someone expects her to keep working through frustration instead of moving on to something new
How do you get along with other children in the Orphan Village? She's eager to include others in her projects and activities and is openly friendly, making her easy to get along with.
How do you get along with teenager adolescents in the Orphan Village? She admires them. Maybe a little too much.
How do you get along with young adult adolescents in the Orphan Village? Comfortable. She tends to see them as micro adults, which can be confusing for her sometimes.

Do you hope to be adopted someday? Yes. Nora would love to have a family that she never has to leave and that never leaves her. She's a bit cautious given her past experience, but she still has hope.
Describe your ideal adoptive family. I would like to see Nora in a two-parent household with adults who are willing to allow her to explore her interests but not permit her to quit every time the going gets a little tough. She can be stubborn, and she could use parents who are willing to be both strict and harsh without necessarily holding things over her head and allowing her to work through them. It would be good if they were more physical than gentle, considering that tools such as grounding her only serve to feed her ability to not follow through on her commitments with an excuse of "well my parents said I'm not allowed". I'd like it if she could develop strong relationships, and I'm okay with her having siblings, whether that means joining a family that already has children or teenagers, or them adopting more.

Is there anything else we should know about your life at the Orphan Village? Nora is endlessly curious and approaches life with a ton of enthusiasm. If there's something new to learn, she's all about it. Her greatest challenge isn't finding interests, it's sticking with them.

Background

Describe your history in 150-1000 words: Nora was born into an ordinary family and spent her earliest years believing that life would always stay the way that it was. She remembers bedtime stories, birthday cakes, helping stir cookie batter while standing on a chair, and being told that she could do anything. Those are the memories she clings to when things get tough -- they remind her that she was once loved and how its done.

When Nora was young, her parents died in a car accident. They'd been there and gone in the blink of an eye. Rather than entering the foster system immediately, relatives and close family friends stepped in to take of her. For years, she moved from one home to the next -- first grandparents, then an aunt and uncles, and later a godparent's family.

None of the homes were abusive. Most of the adults genuinely cared about her. The problem was that every time she got settled things would change again. An elderly grandparent's health declined. An aunt accepted a job into another state. A marriage came under strain. One household discovered that adding another child wasn't as easy as they'd hoped. Another simply couldn't continue because of financial hardship. Every move had its own explanation and none of them made much sense to a little girl who only knew that she was packing her things again.

As she grew older, Nora became remarkably good at starting over. She learned how to make friends quickly, adapt to new routines, and settle into unfamiliar homes. She even began to see the moves as a fresh start -- a new bedroom, different rules, and a chance to do better this time. She approached each one with real excitement, convinced that this might finally be the place where everything worked.

Her curiosity flourished wherever she went. She wanted to try everything that caught her attention. One family introduced her to gardening. Another taught her to bake. A neighbor showed her how to fish. Someone tried teaching her to knit. Every new interest became her favorite thing in the world ... right up until it became difficult.

Nora never learned that becoming good at something takes time. Because her life changed so often, she rarely stayed anywhere long enough to develop mastery. She started plenty of hobbies and activities, but few lasted more than a few weeks or months before another move, another disappointment, or her own frustration convinced her to give up. Eventually, she developed a habit of deciding she "just wasn't good at it" whenever something stopped coming easily.

It was through a friend that her godfather had heard about Orphan Village on Birchwood Isle, and he'd genuinely hoped that it would be what she needed -- that they'd be able to provide her with the stability that she didn't have. And he hoped that their system would be better than the failing one in the states. Because she needed consistency, not another series of homes she'd walk away from, discouraged and frustrated.


Other

Is there anything else we need to know about you? Not right now.

[Caleb Arthur Turner]

Adolescent Application

Hi! My name is Caleb Arthur Turner and I in the 11th grade. I am 19 years old. Please use he/him pronouns when referring to me!

Basic Information

Full Name: Caleb Arthur Turner
Nickname, if Any: none
Age: 19
Birthday: November 14
Sex: Male
Pronouns: He/Him
Current Grade/Year in School, if Applicable: Grade 11 (returning student)
Current Occupation, if Applicable:
Special Needs: None formally diagnosed.

Appearance

Height: 6'0"
Build: Lean, athletic
Hair Color: Dark Blonde
Eye Color: Hazel
Distinguishing Features: Rough calloused hands. Smattering of freckles across his nose and cheeks. Small scar across one knuckle.
Brief Description: Caleb stands at six feet tall with a lean, wiry build that he got through years of doing physical labor. There's very little excess on him, which is the result of hauling lumber, unloading trucks, carrying groceries, or tackling whatever job that needed doing or that he could get his hands on over the years.

Dark blonde hair, usually in need of a trim, falls carelessly across his forehead in loose curls. His hazel eyes are observant and constantly moving, and a scattering of freckles stretches across the bridge of his nose and cheeks.

Personality

What are your greatest strengths? List 5-10: Responsible; protective; resourceful; hardworking; patient; compassionate; dependable; self-sacrificing; practical
What are your greatest weaknesses? List 5-10:Irritable; workaholic; guarded; stubborn; hyper-independent; controlling; self-reliant; explosive
What do you struggle with? Caleb's biggest struggle comes in believing that he has value outside of what he can provide for others. With years spent acting as the primary caregiver for his younger siblings, he has a difficult time accepting help, relaxing, or allowing anyone else to shoulder responsibilities that he believes belong to him. He instinctively puts everyone else's needs ahead of his own and often feels guilty doing simple things like buying himself a new pair of shoes or sitting while someone else is working.

Since arriving at Birchwood Isle, he's also struggled with losing the role that's defined him for years. Being expected to return to school, follow house rules, and allows adults to make decisions for him feels less like being cared for and more like having his identity stripped away from him.  His siblings are constantly on his mind, and any suggestion that they might be better off without him or no longer need him is likely to provoke an explosive response.
What are your hobbies or interests? Fishing; working on old cars; playing sports; camping; cooking; repairing things
What do you really enjoy? cooking for people; hearing younger children laugh; quiet evenings; fresh coffee early in the morning; being able to fix things that are broken; receiving letters or phone calls form his siblings
What do you really dislike? wastefulness; feeling helpless; depending on others; being told to "relax"; pity; loud arguments; seeing food thrown away;
What are your favorite things? pancakes for dinner; summer storms; hardware stores; well used cookbooks; thrift stores; book stores; oversized hoodies; family photographs; "just window shopping"; building things with his hands; handmade gifts; his savings jar
What do you fear? his siblings forgetting him; being insignificant; failing people who count on him; becoming a mirror image of the men who've drifted in and out of his life
Describe your personality in 100-500 words:
Upon first meeting Caleb, most people walk away with the impression that he's quiet, dependable and mature for nineteen. He rarely complains, works harder than anyone asks him to, and sometimes picks up on problems before others even see them coming. If something's broken, he'll fix it. If someone needs help, he'll be the first to volunteer.

Underneath that calm exterior, however, is someone carrying an enormous amount of grief and pressure. Caleb's spent years believing that his worth depended entirely on how well he could take care of other people. It's because of that, that he struggles to understand who he is when nobody needs him. Compliments make him uncomfortable, gifts make him feel guilty, and free time leaves him restless. He doesn't know how to relax because for years he hasn't had any time for that.

Even though he's naturally patient and gentle -- especially with younger children -- Caleb can protective of the ones he cares about. Most of the time he keeps his emotions under tight control, but when he feels powerless or believes someone is threatening someone important to him, that control can quickly dissolve. His anger is intense enough to surprise both himself and the people around him, and once it wears off, he struggles with guilt in the wake of it.

Despite everything, Caleb has a quiet sense of humor that surfaces around people he trusts. He enjoys making others smile, cooking meals for groups, and doing little things that make plain old regular days feel special. At the end of the day, he's a nineteen-year-old who never really got the chance to discover too much about himself and has found himself in a place where every part of the identity he's been clinging to has been stripped away from him.


Relationships & Behavior

How do you normally get along with adults? Usually pretty well. He's polite and cooperative, as well as willing to work hard, but years of making adult decisions have left him uncomfortable surrendering control to people he barely knows.
How do you normally get along with teenagers? It depends on the teenager. As a general rule of thumb though, he feels awkward and out of place around people his own age. He enjoys the company, but a lot of the time it's hard for him to relate about things he's not had the opportunity to do -- parties, dating, or even school.
How do you normally get along with other children? Caleb is incredibly comfortable with those younger than him. He has endless patience for scrapes knees, bedtime stories, homework questions, and sibling-like arguments. Younger children often gravitate toward him because he treats them with kindness while remaining calm and consistent. He's natural with them.
How independent are you? Exceptionally, perhaps unhealthily, independent. Caleb has spent years unable to ask for help without drawing unnecessary attention and so he doesn't really know how to do it. He will exhaust every possible option before admitting that he can't handle something alone.
How do you normally react when you get into trouble? It depends. Sometimes, he can accept responsibility without making excuses. Others? He can be suborn, argumentative, and even sometimes explosively angry.
Link to your discipline sheet: click here

Orphan Village

How long have you lived at the Orphan Village? Since June.
Which House do you belong to? Cedar
Are you currently enrolled at the Orphan Village Academy or BWI College? Orphan Village Academy
What jobs or responsibilities do you have at the Orphan Village? Officially, none. Unofficially, Caleb volunteers for almost everything and anything he can. If it's in his wheelhouse and he can help, he'll offer.

How did you come to live at the Orphan Village? Three years after his mother disappeared, authorities discovered that Caleb had been raising his younger half-siblings alone without legal guardianship. Despite all of his efforts, his siblings were placed in the custody of his aunt, who sent him to Birchwood Isle, where he remains under guardianship himself.

How do you generally get along with caregivers and authority figures? Caleb wants to respect the adult responsible for him, but he struggles. It's tricky territory for him. After all, he's spent years "not needing anyone," and suddenly he's expected to rely on people he doesn't know for things he used to do himself, for other people.

How do you generally get along with younger residents? Absolutely. Caleb naturally falls into an older brother role with younger kids, but he's also known for overstepping and crossing lines that perhaps he shouldn't.

How do you generally get along with your peers? He's friendly but reserved. Caleb sometimes has difficulty relating to experiences he missed out on growing up.

Do you prefer to be adopted or remain in the Orphan Village?Caleb, at least right now, would prefer for neither. What he wants is to rewind time and return to the way things were before, but that's at least in part because he doesn't realize that he has opportunities here to experience a lot of what he's missed throughout his life -- and that it doesn't have to cost anyone anything. 

I think that I, as his player, would prefer to see him adopted if or when the right opportunity should come along.

Describe your ideal adoptive family. Caleb would do well in a 2+ parent household, where there was at least one mother and one father, both of whom are actively involved in the lives of their children. He would be open to having siblings -- he's very good with kids.

Is there anything else we should know about how you get along in the Orphan Village? Caleb keeps himself incredibly busy. He's usually up before sunrise and finds things to occupy his time, whether they've been asked of him or not. He's eager to get his hands on a job because this is the first time since he was a young teenager that he hasn't had one. Starting at 13, he took a lawnmower that he'd repaired around and began mowing lawns to bring in extra money to help out, and his responsibilities continually increased the older he got.

Background

Describe your history in 150-1000 words: Caleb doesn't remember a time in his life when he felt particularly stable. His father was never a part of the picture, and over the years several different men drifted in and out of his mother's life, none of them staying long enough to become much of anything to him. His mother put a lot of responsibility on him from the beginning by often reminding him that he was "the man of the house" and relying on him to pick up the slack she couldn't -- watching his younger siblings, preparing meals, settling arguments, and helping out whenever she was most overwhelmed. Over time, it grew from the occasional responsibility to the expectation that he was always available for it.

Then, when Caleb turned sixteen, his mother disappeared after telling him, "I need to figure some things out." At first, he believed that she'd come back. Days turned into weeks, then months but he refused to let his younger siblings lose hope. He continued getting them ready for school every morning, packing lunches, helping with homework, reading bedtime stories, and reassuring them that everything would be fine. As money became tighter, he went from one part-time job to two, collecting as many hours as he could. It wasn't long before he couldn't balance work, school, and home life -- something had to give, and the only option, the way he saw it, was for school to. So, he dropped out without ever telling anyone the real reason behind it.

For the next three years, Caleb did everything he could to give his siblings as normal of a childhood as possible. He worked long hours, learned to stretch every dollar, taught himself to cook, repaired things instead of replacing them, and celebrated birthdays with whatever he could afford while never focusing on his own. He became talented at hiding how difficult things really were, convincing neighbors, employers, and even the children's teachers that everything was under control. His siblings remained fed, clothed, and in school -- everything appeared normal.

Eventually, the truth came to light when his sister got angry with him and lashed out by telling her school guidance counselor. Authorities discovered that Caleb had been raising three minor children without legal guardianship. Their maternal aunt was located, approved for custody, and took the younger children to her home. While everyone recognized the sacrifices that Caleb had made, the authorities determined that the children would be best off with a more stable adult and home life, and his aunt determined that his brother and sisters would adjust better if he weren't around. She offered him a vacation, insisting that he take it to give the kids time to settle in, while tricking him onto an island he couldn't get off of.

Other

Is there anything else we need to know about you?

Caleb likes to keep himself busy, mostly because he doesn't know what to do with sitting still. He's incredibly resourceful and capable. You'll often find him up well before sunrise because he spent years doing it -- making breakfast, packing lunches, waking his siblings up and getting them ready and off to school before he left for work. 

He also has an unusually difficult time spending money on himself. He's spent years comparing prices, savings spare change and hesitating to replace worn clothing or buy things he needs. Everything he has, has gone to making sure that he and his siblings made it through as a family and rewriting those habits is hard. He'll always look to the free option before relying on what costs money.

But the most important thing is that Caleb doesn't see himself as a victim. He spent years raising his siblings because someone had to do it. As far as he's concerned, it wasn't anything extraordinary.