Jessica Rhine is no stranger to the Alleghany Highlands, as her mother’s family is from the area. She moved to Alleghany County on Christmas Day 2015. In February of 2016, Rhine was hired a houseparent for Boys Home – a position she still holds.
Prior to moving to the area, Rhine received her degree in psychology from Black Hills State University in South Dakota. She has lived in a variety of places all over the world and describes herself as a “military brat.” One of her favorite memories is working for a resort in Guam. She was a guide for snorkeling tours, a lifeguard and gave windsurfing lessons.
Today, Rhine says that her position at Boys Home is exactly where she wants to be at this stage of her life. She continued by stating that, “being a houseparent is difficult, but working directly with the kids is very rewarding. It’s the only job I ever want to do here.”
Rhine plans to stay at Boys Home for at least another 5 years. She is also continuing her educational journey and has completed half of her bachelor’s degree in elementary education.
Associate Director of Program Chad Whitmer, Rhine’s supervisor, describes her as calm, assertive, and sincere, which are the qualities that are needed to be successful as a Boys Home houseparent.
Click here for more information about Boys Home, or you can donate online at givetoboyshome.org.
