Meet Malachia

The first decade of Malachia's life was anything but typical. 

Leaving the care of his biological mother at age two, he drifted among family, residential treatment centers and respite foster care. As he grew, it seemed that life was spiraling out of control. By age 11 he had come to expect constant turmoil, to believe that he just wasn't good enough. Then he entered one of St. David's Center's foster homes, and his life dramatically changed.

Do right. Think right. Act right.These simple rules for the home of Sano and Russell Daniel seem straightforward. But in deciding to provide therapeutic foster care to children who have experienced trauma, the Daniels needed training and support from St. David's Center as they applied these rules in helping to raise some very extraordinary children.

Malachia challenged his foster family by acting out issues of anxiety, anger, hyperactivity, and low self-image. The Daniels modeled expectations for behavior and healthy family relationships, and coached Malachia on academic skills. They enrolled Malachia in dance classes, swimming, and basketball, and taught him to run and ride a bike - right alongside their four biological children. He had opportunities in the Daniels home that he had never experienced, plus the support he needed to feel nurtured and safe. In Sano's words, "He needed to stop trying to limit himself." The Daniels' steadfast support gave him the courage to try.

Pieces of Malachia's life began to fall into place. Sano, Russell and St. David's Center staff worked with Malachia's biological mother, preparing her to understand and respond positively to his behaviors and needs. Malachia began receiving in-home services through St. David's Center, increasing his independent living skills. And finally, after a decade of separation, Malachia returned to his mother and biological siblings. He maintains his relationship with the Daniels through weekend visits, and his mother knows she can call the Daniels for advice and support at any time. A life of chaos is back on track, and Malachia now has adults who are there for him - no matter what. 

Did you know? St. David's Center's reach extends far beyond our Minnetonka campus. Nearly two-thirds of the agency's direct program costs are expended on home and community-based services - a total of $8.6 million. Your gift to St. David's Center will extend critically-needed services to over 1,200 children who need our help, children whose future depends on us and the decisions we make today.

Ways to Give:

• Donate Online
• Mail a check to St. David's Center Attn: Development, 3395 Plymouth Road, Minnetonka MN 55305
• Donate online on "Give to the Max" day - November 16, 2011 - at http://bit.ly/givemnsdc 
• Set up a recurring monthly gift and save St. David's Center valuable resources!

Questions about giving? Please contact the Director of Community Relations and Development at
952-548-8620 or giving@stdavidscenter.org.