By John Solberg
Rawhide Executive Director
I would like to share with you the importance of Rawhide to struggling youth and their families through the voice of a parent. This year Rawhide initiated five week-long summer camps that challenged at-risk boys to analyze their behavior and reflect on personal issues of respect, responsibility, and self-control. One mother shared her story:
When David returned from camp, and in just a few days, I was amazed at the changes I saw in him. The very day he returned he talked actively about his camp experience with only a little coaxing, and when we arrived home he got all of his camp gear out of the vehicle and put it away without having to be told once. I was shocked. Normally, I would have had to ask him four times and it would have sat in the car for three days before I eventually just took care of it myself. He did whatever he was asked to do, and his daily chores, without argument—something that was a daily fight in our home . . . to get David to help around the house. Two weeks went by without one argument between David and me.
Now, even two months later, and with school underway, things are still looking well. His grades are a huge improvement so far compared to previous years. He is pulling As, Bs, and Cs compared to Cs, Ds, and Fs. We also have not had any disciplinary issues with him at school. Two weeks ago we attended the first Parent/Teacher conference, and it was the first one since David started school that I left in tears of happiness rather than tears of sadness and worry. It was extremely encouraging. His teacher said he was attentive in class, worked diligently to get his work done, actively tried to stay out of trouble, and avoided the kids he got into trouble with in the past.
I believe camp played a major, if not the biggest, role in showing David a different side to life. He still talks frequently about his experiences at camp, showing us different types of trees and even those long canoe rides. It certainly is something we will all be able to look back on and appreciate as a life-changing experience. I hope David continues to make the great choices he has been making since camp. Rawhide certainly has been an answer to our prayers. Even to see David light up when he came to see you (Lyle, Rawhide Adventure Camp Youth Worker) last weekend at the Rawhide fish fry. It's an excitement and happiness that David was lacking for such a long time. Thank you!
During this season of Thanksgiving we can rejoice that a young man and his family have new hope for their future because of your faithful support. Your support provides opportunities like summer camp, outpatient counseling, and year-round residential care to youth just like David and offers parents the support they need with a struggling child. Thank you for your giving, which has a direct impact on the problems young men face. I wish you and your family a blessed Thanksgiving.
Sincerely,
John Solberg
Executive Director
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