Author: Laura Robertson

Aaron Smith Celebrates 10 Year Work Anniversary at Boys Home

Boys Home staff and students are excited to announce Aaron Smith’s ten-year work anniversary. Since July 2022, he has served as campus life manager. Prior to his current position, Aaron served as a houseparent. He was awarded Houseparent of the Year in 2021. Originally from Bronx, New York, Aaron had an interesting path which eventually led him to Boys Home. He attended high school in Lawnside, New Jersey, and lived with his grandmother Marilyn. The move to New Jersey was prompted by Aaron’s mother and grandmother who knew he needed a safer environment. Aaron stated, “My grandmother has been a big influence in my life. She would tell me, ‘Be careful of the people you spend time around and always look out for yourself.’ She always offers great advice.” At twenty-five Aaron and his grandmother saw his path needed to change again and she urged him to move to the mountains of Covington, Virginia. 

After moving to Covington, Aaron became focused on finding a career. That focus led him to Boys Home in 2012. Aaron stated, “I truly believe it was God’s plan to bring me here. As I have worked to change lives, Boys Home changed me for the better. I see myself in so many of the students here. I was raised by a single mom in an area with a great deal of violence, which led me to move in with my grandmother. Although it was a better environment, I did not always make the right decisions. I can now share that experience with the students I mentor and prevent them from making those same mistakes.”

Aaron is a true advocate for the Boys Home mission in the local community and beyond. He lives the vision of a community that inspires young men to positively impact those around them. Congratulations, Aaron!  

Boys Home Welcomes Staff Member Tom Dixon

Boys Home of Virginia is excited to welcome Tom Dixon as a houseparent and writing instructor. Originally from Chatham, Virginia, Tom has enjoyed his new life in Covington. After earning an undergraduate degree in English from Longwood University, Tom worked as a news reporter for a short period of time at the Star Tribune. Following that position, he became a youth minister at an Episcopal church in Farmville, Virginia. Tom stated, “Since starting at Boys Home, I feel like I’m back to my roots. I like the established schedule for students. I had a similar schedule when I attended Episcopal High School in northern Virginia.”

Tom was asked about his biggest takeaways from both positions. He stated, “As a houseparent, I have learned when to use certain rules and the importance of meeting the students where they are when they first arrive at Boys Home. I find it very rewarding to see them progress through the intake and evaluation program and succeed on ‘the hill.’ I have thoroughly enjoyed being on the teaching side of English. I see students have those connections moments and it gets me excited. I also stress the importance of effective writing skills that can be used throughout life.” During his time off Tom enjoys taking a walk in nature, seeing a movie, trivia night and trying great restaurants in the surrounding areas. At the conclusion of the interview, Tom stated, “I am happy about the opportunity. As I help these students develop, I find that I am growing and learning as well. I hope to be a positive role model and impact the students to positively impact those around them.”