At 16 years old, Madden is a junior in high school with a quiet determination and a heart full of hope. Before coming to Rawhide in March of 2025, he lived with his dad and struggled with anger and school fights that led to a probation violation—and a major turning point.
Madden didn’t know what to expect at Rawhide. But it immediately felt like a world apart from where he’d been. “It’s paradise compared to other places,” he said. “There is freedom and opportunities. It feels like a second chance.”
Adjusting wasn’t always easy. Madden misses his friends and family. But he pours himself into his program, staying out of trouble and working hard every day. He finds peace and purpose in the barn, where hard work and the quiet connection with the horses help him reflect.
Equine therapy became a powerful outlet. With the guidance of his therapist, Ms. Hannah, Madden learned how to walk away from tough situations and focus on what matters most: his goals, his future, and the people who care about him. “It’s different here. I’ve been able to open up,” said Madden.
At Rawhide, Madden’s days are filled with meaningful work, whether it’s barn duties or our behavioral job training program. He also makes space for joy, creating memories around campfires, canoeing, tubing, and hiking with classmates. Week after week, he proves himself as someone who stays focused, respects others, and gives his all.
What drives Madden is simple but powerful: the desire to be with his people. Long-term, he imagines owning a farm, fishing, hunting, and soaking in life’s quieter moments. Through it all, Madden has grown in ways he didn’t expect. “I didn’t realize how much I’d miss my family and friends,” he said. “Seeing their familiar faces is more important than I thought.”
When Madden leaves Rawhide, he plans to take the coping skills he’s learned with him. Knowing how to pause, walk away, and think before reacting has already made a difference—and he knows it’ll help him stay grounded in the future.
He hopes the staff and students remember him as someone who worked hard, focused on himself, and led by example. “I’m not a follower,” he said. “I’m always a leader.”
Madden’s message to donors: "Thank you for trusting us to better ourselves and for giving us the opportunities to do so."