DeMario

Three short years ago, Demario’s future was uncertain. His family often struggled to obtain the most basic needs, and the instability caused Demario a great deal of emotional distress. His feelings were manifested through violent aggression towards his peers, causing him problems in school. He was referred to Hope Academy when his district school ran out of options to address his angry outbursts and physical confrontations.

Today, Demario is a more mature young man, equipped with the tools necessary to succeed in life. He has learned to identify his feelings and control his reactions without resorting to violence. With the help of his teachers at Hope Academy, he has formed and maintained positive relationships and has earned his High School diploma. Demario is working with Job Corps and  exploring independent living programs.

"Now, I feel like I have a real chance in life." ~ Demario, 18

James

Four year-old James had difficulty following directions from teachers and keeping pace with the other children in his day care. His relationship and learning skills needed to improve in preparation for successful entry into Kindergarten. In our therapeutic preschool, James received attention and instruction that helped improve his social and emotional development. Better able to relate and learn, he also mastered the basic academic skills that are required for school and that serve as a strong foundation for future learning. The gains made in our preschool may one day propel him to head of the class.

"I'm going to Kindergarten!" ~James, 4

Tonya: In Her Own Words

My name is Tonya.  I was a resident at The Children's Home in the '90's (children no longer reside there.)  I was placed there after several suicide attempts and continued difficulty at home.  I lived there approximately two years.  While there I flourished as an individual.  The support I received from the staff helped me learn acceptable coping skills.  I came in a very prickly, defensive little girl.  I still remember (with a slight smile to be honest) one of the women in my cottage telling me that "sarcasm isn't an art."  I learned to value myself and what I had to offer others.  I also learned how to be a better person.  I learned diplomacy, which has served me well as an adult.  I honestly believe that I am a much better person than I would have been if left to my own devices.  I remember many of the people who were involved in my care extremely fondly.  I left The Children's Home a more confident and secure person.  I think without The Children's Home I would not have survived beyond my 20's.

Today I am happily married (almost 10 years), with two children aged 6 & 4.  I am currently working in the ICU, and will have my BSRN in May.  From there I will continue to work in the ICU while attending graduate school to finish up a nurse practitioner advanced practice degree.  I am the legislative director on both a state and local level for the Kentucky Association of Nursing Students (KANS) and I am a parent leader of a support group for families with children who have autism spectrum disorders at the Kosair-supported CP Kids Center (my son has a sensory processing disorder).  Thanks to the Children's Home, I am here to be a support to others...for that, I am extremely grateful.

Tonya K.