Boys Ranch Town: A New Experience

December 8, 2011

Hi, my name is Roy. I am 15 years old and I am pretty new at Boys Ranch Town. I’ve been here for about a month and a half. I am originally from Oklahoma City and I have two sisters. If I had to describe my family, I think I am a pretty lucky guy because I come from a loving and a caring family. My grandparents raised me and my sisters. We are grateful for them caring for us.
As I grew up, I started getting in trouble. I didn’t listen to adults. I had a disrespectful attitude and was making bad choices in school. I ended up staying in Juvenile Detention for a couple of days. It was a horrifying experience. I decided I really wanted to change my actions, and I was thrilled when my grandparents picked me up and took me back home. However, I knew I would end up in some kind of facility.
So, one morning I woke up to a new reality. My grandparents told me they were taking me to Boys Ranch Town. I should have been grateful, because it’s nothing like Juvenile Detention, but I was still mad that they were sending me away. It seemed to happen so quickly. When I got to BRT, everything seemed good at first, but it is getting harder every day. I am not used to discipline. I am not used to restrictions, consequences, or an appointed bedtime or study time.
To be honest, I admit that it’s all probably good for me, but I just wasn’t ready for this. I dearly appreciate the efforts of my house parents. They are gentle people and make our cottage feel like home. I’m getting used to the kids at the Ranch, and we play a lot of sports. I just love playing football and basketball with the other boys.
Boys Ranch Town isn’t what it seemed to be at first. I thought it would be very strict, and I was a little scared. Now I realize it’s just a safe, disciplinary environment. It feels like an ordinary home.
If you would like to learn how to support Boys Ranch Town, contact Michael Williams at (580) 822-3081 or (405) 818-8833.