Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
SALT LAKE CITY — For 15-year-old Jade, there’s a sense of comfort that comes from being around animals. It’s where she feels most like herself. During a special day at Hogle Zoo, Jade had the chance to go behind the scenes and up close with one of her favorite animals: red pandas. “I just like seeing all the animals, getting the fun facts, you know,” Jade said. “I’m a big animal person.”
A special experience
That love was on full display as zookeepers showed her how to care for them, letting her help feed bamboo to a shy red panda named William. “Pretty good. I like it,” she said with a smile. Moments like these aren’t just exciting; they reflect something deeper. Jade said her love for animals has been with her for as long as she can remember. “Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve always wanted to become a vet,” she said. It’s a goal that continues to guide her, even through life’s challenges.
Life in foster care
Jade has been in foster care for about three years, moving between homes and adjusting to new environments along the way. “It’s a little hard,” she said. “You have to leave the people that you know, so that’s a little hard.” Through it all, one thing has remained constant: her connection to animals, especially her cat. “I’ve always liked them,” she said. “They’ve always been a part of my heart.”
Hoping for a forever family
Now, Jade is hoping for something more permanent, a place where she can feel supported and cared for. “Just a caring family,” she said. “I don’t care who they are. I just want them to care, you know?” She said what matters most isn’t anything complicated, just having people she can count on. “I think just being with people that I can lean on and have support,” Jade said. “Having someone to be there for me is a good thing.” To learn more about Jade or to explore foster care or adoption, visit Raise the Future's website.
