My daughter graduated from the Freestate ChalleNGe this past June 2005. I can say that the program was PERFECT for my daughter.
I really believe that had God not lead her to the program, she would be dead or incarcerated by now. She is a bright young lady who became distracted at school by everything and everybody. So she simply stopped going. She was cutting school to hang out with older guys. We were constantly fighting and arguing and she had no respect for anything or anyone, including herself.
Her life had become a chaotic mess. Then she decided to try the Freestate ChalleNGe. I am amazed each day by the changes in her attitude and her outlook on life.
With the help of her mentor, Kim and the staff (some of whom are Mr. Bryant, Sgt. Chandler, Sgt. Lewis, Sgt. Ford), she has turned her life around. Of course, there were struggles along the way. Nothing that a little positive discipline and reinforcement couldn't help. I tell you, I looked up, and she was singing in the Freestate Choir (I got to go to various area churches to hear them. They were awesome!), she was playing on the Freestate Basketball Team (Division Champs-thank you very much!) and giving the prayer and Benediction at graduation. I have had so many proud moments! From Family Day visits, to Prom, to Graduation. What a blessing!
Now, not only has she successfully completed the program, but she has been accepted into college for the coming fall where she will major in Social Work to help other young people to become successful. She will be playing on the basketball team, singing in the choir AND they are anticpating her arrival so that she can start their first ever Liturgical Dance Team!
I am so blessed by what the FREESTATE ChalleNGe program did for my daughter. I am also proud of my daughter for making the decision to get her life together.
Ms. Kym Jackson
mommy of Charlitta A. Mack (FRESHMAN-Clinton Junior College, Rock Hill, SC)