​Where are you from originally?
I grew up in a small town in southern Minnesota.
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Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?I am currently attending the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota with majors in social work, psychology, and pre-occupational therapy. After graduation, I am planning to become an adoption social worker.       

What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
I originally became interested in adoption after a taking a mission trip to Ukraine and working with kids in the orphanages there. I have always loved working with children and seeing their lifestyle in that environment really inspired me onto this path. I chose interning with Christian Adoption Services because of my interest in becoming an adoption social worker, but also because my faith is extremely important to me and their mission statement fits my beliefs in the importance of a good Christian home as a foundation for a child.

What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
In my free time I enjoy reading, playing sports, and traveling.

Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
“God changes caterpillars into butterflies, sand into pearls, and coal into diamonds using time and pressure. He’s working on you too.” This is a quote by Rick Warren that really motivates me in the midst of hardship and trials because it reminds me that God is using these circumstances to form me into the person he desires me to be, and that without times of challenge and discomfort, I will never reach my full potential. 

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Averi is our first intern from University of Mary, and we are so grateful for our Bismarck office already having the opportunity to pour into the next generation of social workers. We are currently accepting applications for the fall.

Where are you from originally? 
Portland, Oregon! 😊 But spent just as long living in the Twin Cities before moving to the F-M area.

What do you love about working at CAS so far?
​ The people.  And I don’t just mean other staff but also the volunteers and clients – everyone is just so positive and kind.  It has been such a blessing to me personally to be allowed to work in such a wonderful work environment.

What drew you to the field of adoption? 
​To be honest, when I began working at CAS it really was just meant to be a temporary situation – filling a need for a fellow ministry that also filled a need for our family.  I hadn’t given a lot of thought to the topic of adoption beyond knowing that as a believer we are adopted as sons and daughters of God, and here on earth, adoption is a blessing to families and children.  It didn’t take long for me to see how much of what is done here at CAS is really ministry.  Yes, we provide a service, but it is so much bigger than that – and to be able to play a small role in sharing the love of God through assisting with the adoption process has been a blessing to me.

What do you like to do when you aren't working?
My husband and three kids keep me pretty busy with various activities, but when I get a chance for “me” time, I enjoy reading, singing, playing board/card games, and spending time with my sister-friends.
 
Can you share a favorite quote/verse or something that inspires you?
​Phil. 4:6-7 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  This a favorite reminder to me and an often prayed verse for others as they go through various struggles.

I am from Fergus Falls, MN and am currently going to school at MSUM. I will graduate with a social work degree this winter and hope to find a job soon after. I am most interested in working with youth in some capacity. My heart has been drawn to adoption for as long as I can remember, and so the opportunity to learn more about it and spend time working at a faith-based adoption agency is really exciting to me! 
When I’m not working, I like to water ski and be at the lake during the warmer months, spend time with good friends, and read a good book. A favorite Bible verse of mine is Psalm 73:28. “But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all Your deeds.” 
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We are thrilled to have Caitlyn with us this fall and applications are being accepted for winter/spring!

Where are you from originally?
I am originally from Garfield, MN, a small town close to Alexandria, MN.

Where are you going to school and what are you studying?
I am currently attending Minnesota State University Moorhead and enrolled in the social work program. I am excited to graduate in May with my bachelors degree. 

What do you love about interning at CAS?
I love interning at CAS because I get to be a part of peoples lives to help them grow their families through adoption. It is amazing to see God’s hand guiding everything we do here at CAS.

What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
When I am not working I love spending time outside with my family and friends . I enjoy traveling all over the world and seeing this beautiful earth God has created.

Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
A verse that has guided me through my life is Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you”, declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and , not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future"

We are thrilled to have Katie this spring, and we are currently accepting applications for the fall.

Where are you from originally?
I was born and raised in West Fargo, so I am a North Dakota girl to the heart! I love to travel but do plan on staying within the Red River Valley for the next couple of years, but someday I hope to live on the west coast.

Where are you going to school and what are you studying?
I am a senior at Minnesota State University Moorhead. I am studying for my bachelor’s degree in Social Work. I will be graduating and taking my licensure boards this May!

What do you love about interning at CAS?
I love interning at CAS because I truly appreciate and stand by the mission. CAS cares deeply about uniting babies and families in a forever bond, as well as taking care of everyone’s needs. It is an honor to be a part of that.

What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
When I am not working I love to spend time with family, go shopping, travel, and try new restaurants! 

Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead


We are pleased to announce that Michelle has accepted a temporary position on staff here with CAS this summer while Destrie is out on maternity leave. This spring has included cross-training for staff and an opportunity for Michelle to work with Destrie in preparation of the summer. We look forward to the arrival of Destrie's second child and are grateful to have her returning in the fall. Our social workers will continue working together closely to serve our clients, and we welcome any questions about this transition.