Hunter has already faced more challenges than most encounter in a lifetime. Between living with his dad, mom, uncle, and various places, Hunter only heard about stability but never truly experienced it. Without much structure at home, he found himself slipping into patterns of lying, stealing, and, as he put it, “coming to a point where it was either jail or Rawhide.”

In March 2024, Hunter chose Rawhide. He didn’t know it at the time, but that decision would mark the beginning of something different—a chance to rewrite his story. For the first time in a long while, he had freedom. Not the kind that leads to bad decisions, but the kind that empowers him to make positive choices and take responsibility. Hunter quickly secured a job in New London, an opportunity he never imagined he’d have while living in a group home.

Hunter admits he had his fair share of mistakes, sneaking off campus and falling back into old habits. But something shifted. The structured environment, combined with the support of his peers like Jayden and staff members such as Mr. Tristian, along with many others, gradually helped him realize that he didn’t want to live the way he used to. For the first time, Hunter started to believe he could be more than his past.

“The best thing about Rawhide is that you get a chance to show who you really are instead of being defined by what brought you here,” said Hunter. “Everyone here has trauma, but you learn how to navigate it.”

Hunter became more involved on campus and in the community. Whether working at fish fries or taking our behavioral job training courses, he began discovering new strengths. Therapy, which had always felt unhelpful in the past, became a turning point. With Ms. Cassie, his therapist, Hunter started learning about himself and how to move forward. He worked hard, not just on his behaviors, but understanding the root of his choices.

“I’ve done more here than I’ve done in my whole life,” he shared. “I used to be a criminal, but I’m over that now.” He stays focused on his goals, avoids conflict, and commits to doing the hard work.

Now, Hunter is determined to graduate early and set out on a future he’s excited about. He dreams of becoming a CDL truck driver, traveling, and continuing to work on cars and motorcycles. More than anything, he wants to carry the structure and lessons he’s gained at Rawhide into the next chapter of his life. “I know better now, and it’s not worth it,” Hunter shared.

Hunter’s message to donors: “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to grow.”