Chris’s story is marked by pain, resilience, and an unwavering heart for others. His earliest years were filled with suffering—abuse from his father, a mother who neglected him, and the loss of his grandmother when he was just 8 years old. After years of foster care, Chris was adopted into a loving family, where he’s lived for the past six years with his mom, dad, and older sister.
The scars of trauma show up in anger, impulsive choices, and getting caught up in the wrong crowds. That path eventually led Chris from detention to Rawhide in February 2025. “The staff genuinely care,” Chris said. “They’re here to help us, not just to get a paycheck.”
For Chris, Rawhide quickly became more than a placement—it became a place for healing. Chris found peace outdoors. But most of all, he found comfort in the equine-assisted therapy barn. “I love animals, especially the horses,” he shared. “If I get mad, I go to them. They chill me out, and I become a different person.”
Through our behavioral job training program, Chris discovered new passions and skills in welding and culinary arts. He has also given back by helping at the local soup kitchen, an experience that showed him how even small acts can make a difference.
Therapy has been another steady support. With Ms. Tina, Chris has been learning new ways to process emotions and heal long-term. Young Life club has also given him a new perspective on faith, describing it as freeing and personal, not forced.
That growth hasn’t gone unnoticed. Chris earned Student of the Month for his hard work and commitment to his program, something he never expected. “I just try to make it through each day, put in the effort, and not give up when life gets hard,” he shared. Despite all he’s endured, Chris’s compassion remains his greatest strength. “I still care about other people. I show my heart on my sleeve. If someone’s hurting, it’s hard for me not to help.” His protective spirit shows especially in how he looks after his sister, who has spina bifida. “I love always protecting her. And taking our dog Zola on our walks, too.”
When he leaves Rawhide, Chris wants to carry forward the coping skills, resilience, and perspective he’s gained here. And when people look back on his time, he hopes they remember him as “a fun kid to be around, and someone who was always trying to help others.” Looking ahead, Chris’s dreams are full of purpose. He wants to serve in the military, specifically special forces, and hopes to one day live in Ireland, connecting with his heritage.
Because at his core, Chris is a young man who has turned deep pain into deep compassion—a fighter who refuses to give up and never stops looking out for others.
Chris’s message to donors: “Thank you for all the hard work you’ve put into Rawhide.”
