At 17 years old, Gavian is preparing to graduate—something no one in his immediate family has done before. It’s more than just a milestone for him; it’s a declaration that change is possible, even when the odds are stacked against you.
Before returning to Rawhide in December 2024, Gavian’s life had been anything but stable. He moved through various foster placements, and in 2021–2022, he lived in our ABC residential home. After leaving, his path took a darker turn when he was caught stealing cars—behavior that, along with anger issues, ultimately led him back to Rawhide.
“When I first got here, I was nervous. I had just come from secure detention. I didn’t even eat until the second full day because I was so anxious,” said Gavian. But even through that anxiety, he began to feel something he hadn’t felt in a long time—hope.
At Rawhide, he found structure, support, and the opportunity to make different choices. Therapy had always been a challenge for him. Since the age of ten, he had a habit of shutting down, answering every question with “I don’t know” or storming out if something hit too close to home. But with Ms. Tina, a familiar face from his past stay, Gavian began to let his guard down. Slowly, he started to engage—not just in therapy, but in his future.
One of the biggest turning points for Gavian came in the classroom. “I used to hate school,” he shared. “But now that I can see my future—and I’m just one class away from graduating—it changed my perspective.” He especially wants to be a role model for his younger siblings. “My parents didn’t graduate, and I want to set a good example.”
He’s also left behind things that once had a strong hold on him. “I’m proud I quit doing drugs and drinking,” he shared. “And I got my driver’s license.” These personal accomplishments ripple outward, especially for someone who now sees himself as a mentor to others. “I try to help the new kids here and remind them it’s not worth getting into messes.”
Gavian has learned not to let others’ behavior drag him down. Where he once reacted with anger, now he walks away. “I can handle it now; I’ve learned to stay calm.” When he talks about the future, he dreams of joining the military.
And when it’s time to leave Rawhide, he’ll carry something far more valuable than just a diploma. “No matter how hard you think it’s going to get, there’s always better. If you keep your faith and work through the hard times, you can do well.”
Gavian’s message to donors: “Thank you for supporting at-risk youth. You’re helping change the way people act and think.”
