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A Rite of Passage and Mentoring Program for Boys Ages 10 - 18 In Southern Oregon |
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Testimonials
From Boys
"When I got here I wanted to release stress, anger and sadness. I
really did not know how I or anyone could help me do this. Luckily I saw
a lot of feedback from the staff and everyone. It really was a magical
thing because I expressed my feelings like I had never heard myself;
meaning I impressed myself. I want to keep coming so I can release
everything that stops me from Liberty." —E.C."This weekend has been really amazing for me, I feel that I have changed in many ways for the better. I also feel that my life is going in a positive direction and that I will be OK. I feel much better about who I am now and am no longer carrying so much built up pain and emotional weight. I feel now like going out into the world without harsh judgment and living my life to its fullness for the rest its duration and sharing the rewards I get from it with all the people I love. I would like to thank everyone who contributed to what I have done this weekend. It really has been great and I hope to participate more in this organization in the near future." —J.B.
"I got a lot out of this weekend. I would have to say that I really found myself. I mean I still have some problems to work out, but who doesn’t? I just wanted to say thanks to whomever reads this and sorry 'cuz it might be hard to read! I’m really looking forward to coming back and maybe staffing." —N.S.
From Parents
"I was interested in the Boys to Men program, as I have been a single
mom since Noah was born and he has never met his father (dad opted to
not be involved with me). The issue of not having a dad around has been
very hurtful to Noah, and continues to create struggles for him. This
program was suggested by the counselor at Ashland Middle
School."Being involved in this program has been a tremendous benefit for not only Noah, but for me as well. Noah has had an opportunity to be around men who are positive role models and who can provide Noah with safe, healthy and loving support. Noah has grown socially and emotionally since being involved in this program. He has learned from the men in the group, been exposed to men who care about one another and who have healthy relationships, and has continued to learn that males can be connected and express themselves.
"During a long and difficult period in his life, Noah has had a 'safe' place to express himself. Noah has never been a 'normal kid', in the sense that he has had many struggles. He has been in trouble legally, has struggled with substance abuse and has had problems around peer relationships. The men of Boys To Men have gently redirected Noah, pushing him to understand the choices that he makes, encouraging him to make better choices and believe in himself. This has been a tremendous support for Noah.
"Noah has been fortunate to participate in several 'staffing weekends', where he has gone as a mentor of sorts to new boys in the program. This has helped to increase his self esteem, build confidence, and also allow Noah continued work on his own issues in a safe environment.
"The men who are involved in this program are amazing! They give of their time, their emotions, their love and strength. There simply is no way to express my gratitude, as I never would have made it through the past several years without this program. Noah is an amazing kid who struggles, most every day, with some issue or another. His continued participation in this program is critical. As a social worker, I know how kids fall through the cracks, I see it all too often in my work. Programs such as Boys to Men are invaluable to the youth of our community, as it is so challenging to be an adolescent in today's society.
"I am happy to speak with anyone about Boys to Men and have sent other parents towards this program. I believe 100% in this program and have seen how it has impacted and changed my son's life." —Susie W.
"The Boys to Men program awakened in my son the aspiration to be noble and gave him a context in which to pledge himself to values that make a true man. During the weekend program, he had the opportunity to face buried feelings, and release them among wise and supportive guides. I saw him return feeling a deep bond with boys from many different backgrounds and a sense of connection with caring men. The inner compass he discovered there still guides his actions. Regardless of whether a boy has a close relationship with his own father or not, this skillful welcoming into a community of loving men fulfills a young man's deep and natural yearning for connection and possibility." —Shoshana A.