Success Stories
Earl
On October 14, 2009, Earl's life changed dramatically. He turned 18 and had to leave his home at The Haven. Earl arrived at The Haven when he was just 13 years old. However, thanks to his mentor, Jason Esposito, and The Haven's dedicated, long-standing staff, Earl matured into a well-mannered young man who considered his fellow cottage residents to be his brothers, played on his high school football team and looked forward to graduation. When he got to The Haven, he had trouble learning how to deal with people; it was hard to take criticism. Earl is the perfect example of how The Haven's expanded programs, including life skills, tutoring and work readiness have helped a timid, unsure boy become a more confident, independent young adult. He learned how to handle things by listening to his therapist and his mentor, Jason. They developed a really close relationship. Unfortunately, Earl had to say "farewell" to his friends at The Haven, but, fortunately, he was able to say "hello" to Esposito's family when he moved into their home as his first adult step into transitional living. Earl and the Espositos had a great relationship. Jason and his wife, Tracy, wanted to open their home to him so he could finish high school, get his driver's license and buy his first car. Having had such a stable support system at The Haven, Jason felt it was important for him to continue to have that. With the Esposito's help, Earl did finish high school; he did get his driver's license; and he did buy his first car. He has now moved into his own apartment and in the fall, will be attending Palm Beach State College. Earl's advice for the younger boys just entering The Haven's program -- Take advantage of all of the opportunites that you are given. It is a good place to grow up.
Don
When Don was 14 years old, he lived at The Haven when it was a coed, group home where "house parents" lived in each cottage to care for the children 24/7. The married, in-house staff couples served as adult role models and provided a positive, home-like environment in which the children could gain self-esteem and self-confidence. Now 31 years old, Don says his experience at The Haven was very beneficial. He has only the fondest memories and sincere appreciation for everything the organization has done for him. Don remembers his house parents as being "wonderful people" and had a very close friend who was a fellow housemate with whom he shared life's challenges. After leaving The Haven at age 15, Don returned to an unhealthy home environment, but his experiences at The Haven prepared him to better cope with it. The Haven helped him gain his independence and build confidence in himself. Without it, he's not sure he would have had the strength to push forward as he did. He obtained his GED and started a wonderful journey that has taken him all over the world. He went to college and graduated with a bachelor's in political science. He lived and taught English in Russia and couldn't be happier with how his life has turned out. He appreciates everything, even the so-called "bad" things because they are a part of who he is and they have made him a stronger and better person. Today, Don lives in Denver. He enjoys traveling around the world, meeting new people and experiencing life from new perspectives. He is glad to know that despite the tough economy, the people of Boca Raton continue to support The Haven and is grateful to them. He feels that they were there for him years ago and they are still here for the kids in need.
