I watched my parents volunteer a large amount of their time at several non-profit organizations as I was growing up. Knowing that they have valuable experiences serving in leadership roles of organizations created to serve the betterment of society, I decided to interview them; so that I may gain from their work.
Please describe West Texas Boys Ranch and the services they offer.
The West Texas Boys Ranch is a non-denominational, Christian based home for boys from disadvantaged families. The boys live in cottages and have their own rooms. It is a real home environment for them grow up in. They have the opportunity to learn traditional ranching skills like working with horses and other livestock. They are also offered religious services, but it is not forced. They go into town to local schools.
How have you been involved?
I have been volunteering and supporting Boys Ranch for nigh on 2o years. I've served on the board of directors and as chairman.
What have you enjoyed the most?
Working with the boys and seeing so many of them go on to success. It's incredible to see people's lives change like that. That's whether they stay at the Ranch or go back to their family.
What has been difficult?
Trying to get the boys all of the services they need. Some people, with the best intentions, are too tight with the money and they're always shooting down good ideas which will serve the boys. "Dollar per day per kid" is a popular statement, and I hate it because it ignores the value inherent in what we do. What we give these boys is not just significant for them. The things they learn will be passed on to the people in their lives. If they go back home they will be taking everything they learned here with them. They will pass it onto their future kids. They will impact many people. We are just making ripples in the water of life.
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