Director’s Column

The Reward For A Good Job…

As part of the behavioral plan for young adults in assisted living care, as well as for the young men in our treatment group home, there are rewards for a job well done. So often we are involved in the consequences of problem behavior, attitudes and issues. Although consequences are a necessary part of effective discipline, our professional staff fully realizes that positive praise and reward are as extremely important part of any effective behavior change and maintenance. We remind ourselves that a positive reward can be up to 10 times as effective as a consequence, in producing long lasting behavioral change. Aside from the statistics, we all agree, it sure feels better too, both as the giver as well as the recipient.

Out positions at MYS require us to be role models, so to offer praise or a pat on the back to other staff, other professionals, and parents, is setting an example for our young people to witness. Of course, what we offer our young people for recognitions of a job well done is what will get them most excited. "Catch them doing something right" is a phrase we all employ in our roles, but we also set goals and standards to achieve and recognize. We carry a heavy artillery of positive rewards, and utilize them as often as we can. These rewards might include such things as Cookies and Cream ice cream, egg nog, or a special CD. They also include priceless rewards such as a special visit, time with a special friend, one-on-one mentor time with a staff person, a special meal, or even just some free time. Of course there are always the exciting rewards such as going to the races, a football game, bowling, pool, the Y, swimming, water skiing, snowmobiling, or a trip to the local Go-Kart track.




With the rewards regularly used, and achievable goals set before every one of our young people, we have been able to track consistent and long lasting positive change. Tie this together with relationships that are built to offer a lifetime of change, and we offer a combination to parents, families, and everyone that just can’t be beat.



We welcome your thoughts, and possibly you would like to share that special experience that helped you excel in your life.
(admin@marathonyouthservices.org)

Doug Adams, MS

As in everyone’s home, December was a very busy month at Hamilton House. In addition to the regular Christmas decorating, gift planning, etc., we held an open house at both Hamilton House and Reynolds Group Home on December 19^th. That day apparently was a little too close to the holiday and kept attendance low. Nevertheless, those who did attend were treated to some excellent treats provided by our staff, headed up once again by our now famous Carol Gruening. She of course had help from everyone else, such as Maria’s wonderful egg rolls! As one who visited and enjoyed, I want to thank everyone for the outstanding effort. For those of you who missed the Open House, you’re welcome to come by for a visit any time.

This month Mark became more involved with the Humane Society, volunteering many hours of work there. He sure enjoys the animals, and they seem to enjoy his attention as well.



Mark also enthusiastically takes on the task of ensuring that our fire extinguishers are in excellent working condition at all times. He is instructed by Carl, often referred to as ‘Carlos’ here at MYS. Just about anywhere Carl is found working at the homes one will find a curious young man. He is a never ending source of information on house repair and often instructs the guys on proper safety and usage of power tools. Carl’s mood can be classified as jolly, and he has the patience of a saint!



Sam and Suzanne are preparing a meal of Sam’s choice on this particular day. This is a common scene at both Hamilton House and Reynolds Group Home. Here Suzanne walks Sam through the process. Sam relays that his mother makes the best meatloaf, and she has since shared her recipe with us. Nutrition and balanced diets are emphasized daily in our two homes. It is important that the guys learn the much needed skills of meal preparation as they prepare for young adult independent lifestyles.



Hamilton House continues to flourish, meeting and exceeding all our intended goals and expectations. We’re anxiously looking forward to expanding to provide home to two more young men in the coming months. Look for more information in future newsletters. Meantime, you’re always welcome to come by for a visit.

Welcome Cheryl!

Marathon Youth Services is very pleased to introduce Cheryl Bialecki as the newest member of our Team. Cheryl comes to MYS with Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice earned at UW Eau Claire. Cheryl completed an internship with the State Department of Probation and Parole in Eau Claire, emerging with tremendous endorsements and accumulated knowledge. She has a wide variety of experience working with people and providing leadership to a Team. Cheryl presents tremendous enthusiasm and perceptive qualities, and brings a dynamic personality to MYS in the support of our young men. We are excited about the potential she brings, and look forward to a long and successful tenure at MYS. Welcome Cheryl!!!

Rick Ferree, RGH Program Coordinator

The staff and boys at Reynolds Group Home celebrated the Christmas Season on December 19^th with a lovely spread of Christmas treats and an exchange of gifts. The boys were genuinely appreciative of the gifts they received, including fashion sweatshirts and gloves, and a sturdy pair of slippers. A discussion of the season and the spirit it brings followed, with a reflective moment in appreciation of our many good fortunes. There was laughter and excitement, and none among us walked away without their fill.



A special thanks for the culinary efforts of staff members Carol Gruening and her sidekick Mike McCabe…..recognizing the dedication of your time and kindness in the service of our young men.

There are, of course, always many activities going on at both houses. Following is a description of one such fun time:

On December 28^th the boys and staff from Reynolds Group Home kicked off an early morning game of football at Franklin schoolyard. It was a cold morning, with the turf having the qualities of a December Lambeau Field…..in the absence of cleats; slick footing would be an understatement.
The opening kickoff would set the stage for the long, hard game. Coordinator Rick Ferree moved in to make the touch on a nifty return by Taylor. His efforts were successful, but the turf sent him and the runner hard to the ground and on a lengthy slide….a play that would be felt for days to come. It was clear to all….it would be a cold and high velocity game with plenty of spills and lots of fun.
At the end of the game both teams were winners and the crew moved on to the YMCA. The games continued in the pool area with a friendly game of Marco Polo and several swim races. Before the day was over, the group would learn plenty about fair play, hard work, and how to function as a team.
As evening approached, the group returned to RGH for a hot meal. The evening programming followed, with an exhausted group of young competitors ready to call it a day.
The boys at RGH have secured another positive memory; days like this often stay with a young man for many years. We are frequently visited by residents of the past who reminisce of the positive recreational activities they enjoyed while here, bringing fun, character, and a sense of achievement to their efforts to grow.

Rick Ferree and Joe Koenig