Willie's Story

“I used to think my Mom loved my sister more than she loved me,” Willie confesses. As a result, his poor attitude and behavior kept him in trouble. Today, he has the strategy to create a better life.

“Before I rebelled big time,” he acknowledges. He ran away from school, made bad friends and, when he was in school, let his grades drop to barely passing. Why? He was convinced his Mom didn't love him like she loved his sister.

Nothing changed his mind ... not counseling, foster care, juvenile detention or special trips with only his mother. It wasn't until he moved to Mount Dora Children's Home that life took a turn for the better in Willie's life.

The individual attention, care and support consistently showered on him by his houseparents eventually softened Willie's stubbornness. "They helped me see that, deep down, I knew my Mom loves me. I don't know why I got that in my head, but I know how to get it out now," he comments.

Today, he helps with his daily chores, asks questions during the daily Bible study and works on his computer. His grades are strong enough for him to be on the A/B Honor Roll and he no longer disrupts class. "This is a good place. The people here actually listen to me," Willie admits.

What changed? "I guess I finally got tired of always being in trouble," he says. "I figured out you have more fun in life when you do the right things instead of the wrong ones."

Willie is learning anger management in his regular counseling sessions while changing his self-image and developing a healthy work ethic. Developing an interest in the Bible helps him become more aware of others. "Now, I want to help someone else when they need it," he states.

"That's a big step for him," remarks his housemom. "Willie has a lot of potential. I'm glad he's made the decision to improve his life instead of destroying it."

"I know now that I can do anything with God's help, but I can't do it alone," he says.

Read Billy's Story

Read Mike's Story