Trey faced internal hardships. Life in his large family of seven was chaotic, and as a middle child, he often felt overlooked in the crowded household. For Trey, he faced an endless whirlwind of angry outbursts and hyperactivity that he refused to acknowledge. “I thought I could control [my behaviors],” he said. “But I obviously couldn’t.”

By the time Trey arrived at Rawhide in April 2024, he had cycled through several residential centers, each leaving him more frustrated and misunderstood. “They were so strict. I didn’t see how the programs could benefit me,” Trey said. Adjusting to Rawhide wasn’t easy either. Initially, he clashed with others and struggled to follow the rules.

But Rawhide offered something different—a space where support came with structure, not judgment. Trey found himself surrounded by staff who genuinely cared. He learned to see the program for what it was: a chance to grow and develop skills he never thought possible. He began managing his anger with his therapist, Ms. Tina, participating in Rawhide’s job training program to learn culinary skills, and excelling in school. “I feel a lot better than when I first got here,” he shared. “I’m getting good grades and listening to staff.”

A pivotal moment for Trey came when a Rawhide staff member told him, “You are worth it.” At first, he didn’t believe them. “All the other places judged me,” Trey said. But Rawhide was different. He found a source of calm and joy through equine-assisted therapy and shared that some of his favorite moments are when he spends time with animals. He also loves Rawhide’s unique opportunities, like boat rides, fishing trips, biking, and roller-skating adventures.

Trey’s future dreams are big. He hopes to become a sheriff, inspired by his journey at Rawhide. “I want to help others since I understand where they’re coming from,” he said. And more than anything, he looks forward to the day when his entire family can come together, free from the barriers that held them apart.

When he leaves Rawhide, “I want to take everything the staff taught me—how to control my behavior, how to pray to God.” He hopes to be remembered as someone willing to make a change and stand up for others. Trey has discovered his purpose: “God made me somebody He wants to see me be.” And at Rawhide, he’s taken the first steps toward becoming just that.

Trey’s message to donors: “I appreciate everything you’ve done for me. I want to return the favor and help others get through hard times.”