We’re always interested in the progress of "our boys" after discharge. It’s particularly gratifying to hear that someone is doing well and prospering after they leave us. One such example is Josh W, who along with his mom Carol continues contact with the Reynolds Group Home staff well after Josh’s successful completion of our program. Also, we continue to hear positive comments by school officials regarding Josh’s ongoing successes. Another such example follows:

We at MYS recently received some good news regarding former resident Michael K who completed his program at Reynolds Group Home in the summer of 2002. Mike was accepted into the Wisconsin National Guard Challenge Academy located at Fort Camp McCoy, WI. The program is a combination of hard training and education, and has a 30% failure rate! A tough program! Mike has already completed two weeks of the toughest training part of the program. Upon graduation from the Academy Mike’s goal is to enlist in the United States Marine Corps.

I am currently working with the Challenge Academy and will complete Mentor Training in hopes of supporting Mike in his return to the community. Mike had requested that I serve as his mentor to assist him in this challenging time, and give him support and guidance that will help him complete the program.

Joe Koenig, Youth Worker (Reynolds Group Home)

We’re certainly proud of our guys as they succeed at life’s endeavors. Their successes are due in no small part to the dedication of many committed staff and family members. I recently ran across some thoughts written by one of the staff I felt were worth sharing……..

The young man bolted through the front door, tossing his book bag to the floor, unresponsive to the cheery "hello" and the inquiry of the nature of his day.

His possessions were checked to ensure the integrity of his home, he posturing malice and rejection to one so invested in sharing his load.

He took seat in a chair, wrapped up in his silence. I listened.

He shared the ridicule he experienced at school. I listened.

He spoke of his family and his need to be home. I listened.

He lamented his mistakes and the shame it had wrought. I listened.

He spoke of his pain and the absence of hope. I listened.

He returned to his silence, his face in his hands. I listened.

I moved to his side, my hand on his shoulder, his eyes on the floor.
I assured him his talents, his charisma, his charm. I acknowledged his efforts, and his strong family bond. I spoke of forgiveness, of learning, and growth. I consoled him in his anguish, spoke of fine days to come.

His hands reached to my hands, he lifted his head. The expression of sorrow and anger that he brought through the door was replaced with a smile and confidence instead. He acknowledged his blessings and the friend he held dear, and then thanked me for being willing to hear.

He gathered his bag and his things from the floor, and resumed his day with vigor, somehow self-assured.
RFerree……..

Exchanges like this go on daily….between all residents and staff. It’s how we assist guys in making change in their lives! It makes me proud to be affiliated with MYS…..


On another note, it’s reported by our "fitness guy", Joe Koenig, that finishing touches have been completed on the construction of the Reynolds Gym. We hope to have some pictures of the gym to share on our web site real soon. Check it out at www.marathonyouthservices.org. We also received some great news from the Woodson YMCA of Wausau. Through the efforts of our own Suzanne Lewitzke, the Y has agreed to donate a Universal Weight Training Machine for our gym!

Having served as the Aquatics Director for the YMCA for many years, and continuing her involvement there to this day, Suz was able to approach the Y management with a request to help us out in putting together our own fitness program at Reynolds Group Home. They have very graciously agreed to donate their current Universal Machine, and provide some of their own staff time to assist our staff and youth in developing personalized weight training programs. We are deeply grateful for their assistance. A truly example of communities working together.

It is a programming goal of MYS to assist all our residents with guidance in both mental and physical wellness, stressing education in both fitness and nutrition. The goal is the development of a healthy lifestyle, helping the guys form habits they will maintain long after they graduate our program.