Helping students that are dysregulated, struggling with their mental health, creating difficulty for their families and not doing well in their school and community can be challenging. They need so much, and often their situations are very complex. Whether it be some kind of trauma, life adversity, learning incapacities or other struggles, it takes strong relationships with knowledgeable and caring professionals to guide their process to a place of stability and growth.
It also takes environments and relevant resources that are available to students. Intentional programming, dedicated staff and sometimes caring strategies are necessary to give students the opportunity to go through a series of life changes. It takes a very intentional plan that involves a great deal of patience, motivation and even creative options to give students the ability to find their success.
Recently I was in a church environment and a grandfather pulled me aside. His grandson was previously enrolled in one of our schools. It seemed to be his last opportunity to get through school and find stability in his life. The situation was desperate and his parents and grandparents were hoping to find a way for him to make some positive changes in his life.
This young man successfully graduated in this past year which was in and of itself a huge accomplishment for him and for our staff. Eight months later his grandfather came up to me because he wanted me to hear that his grandson had a job and recently purchased his first car. More than that he had reached a level of stability that granted his family hope and a promise for a meaningful future for their son and grandson.
As I walked away from that conversation it was just another affirmation of how valuable our support of students is to families and communities. We all are concerned for our kids and grandkids and want the best for them. It is grievous when we see them spiral, no matter what the reason. When we can witness life changes that provide empowerment to our kids so they can find a way to create a dynamic life, it is gratifying and encouraging as we strive to give them what they need to grow and develop in a healthy way.
Today’s non-profit world is quite stressful. Funding cuts, the intensity of the mental health struggles of our students, stressors in families and communities, the prevalence of different kinds of adversity and normal conflicts make our profession and mission a difficult one. However, when we witness hundreds of stories of how students have responded to the valuable work of our staff, it is truly worthwhile. I so value what happens at Lakeside each and every day as our amazing and compassionate staff provide such quality care for our students. That should be a mission we all support as it brings us inspiration for our positive impact in thousands of lives.
Gerry Vassar
President/CEO
