Standing Inside The Gap

I am a single mom of one, male, 19.  My son started making some bad decisions at 14 and I have had my share of alternative school, juvenile detention, probation, jail, etc.   I am one of the biggest advocates for my son, but I have also taught "choices equates consequences" and to always be accountable for your actions.  He has had (and still does) his struggles with gangs, substance abuse, etc., but I don't give up.  Throughout the years, my home has been short of a group home with my son's friends who may have a temporary situation at home.  I treat them as my own including giving them a sharp word when needed.  I dream of the day when some child that I have treated like my own will come back to me, successful, thanking me for having a positive impact in their life.  I am also always staying on top of my own child, but understand that the final decisions he makes in life are his own.  So I continue to pray. 

I work for a company where our motto is "Serve Others" which begins in our own communities, families, etc. and I have enjoyed the different volunteer opportunities I have experienced while I have been employed here for the past six years. 

My biggest dream?  To have a "safe haven" for our youth to come and feel free to talk about whatever is going on in their lives and how WE, as a community, can make things easier.  Seeking counseling (grief, substance abuse, etc.), self esteem building, life skills, job skills, etc. all essential to becoming a well rounded invididual and I feel that our youth can be saved.