The long history of Boys Home is rich with stories of boys who found themselves here, and went on to live productive, successful, happy lives. We’re proud of that tradition, and here we’ll share some of what our students and alumni have to say about their experience. And we’ll also tell you more about the values young men learn here along the way.
This is a story about a boy named Jerimia
After several attempts to find a suitable foster home for him, Jerimia came to Boys Home at the age of eleven. His CASA worker initiated the placement at Boys Home where she thought he would receive the support, care and structure that he needed. It wasn’t until years later that this woman’s vision for Jerimia became a reality.
As a young child, Jerimia had been in charge of caring for his younger siblings and making his own decisions – he was a defiant, stubborn teenager that taxed the patience of many staff members at Boys Home.
As he matured, he found achievement in art, scouts and sports, later becoming an Eagle Scout from Troop 66 at Boys Home. He held an off-campus job, graduated from high school and became a responsible, dependable citizen.
After graduation, in 2001, he joined the U.S. Army as a truck driver. He remains in the armed forces today in movement control, currently on his 5th deployment to the Middle East. J.F. maintains contact with his biological family, but he is also a close member of the Boys Home family. Jerimia is married and has a young daughter.
This is a story about a boy named Donald
Donald arrived at Boys Home at a young age. Withdrawn and quiet, Donald found a place where he would be safe and nurtured. Originally from the Richmond area, Donald liked the Alleghany Highlands and flourished in the residential environment.
Donald particularly liked sports, art and scouts. He excelled in basketball and played on area recreation and school teams. He became a Life Scout prior to his graduation and attended Bluefield College. After receiving a degree in Criminal Justice, Donald worked in regional juvenile detention centers.
Currently, Donald is a valued Boys Home staff member and house parent in the older boys’ cottage. His calm demeanor and I’ve-been-there-you-can-do-it approach helps young men in his charge find their own way to set goals and excel.
Donald is married and has 1 son and 2 step children.
This is the story about a boy named Ermias
Ermias is an 18-year-old from Maryland. He originally came to this country through an international adoption. His adoptive family sought the services of Boys Home after Ermias had issues with his current family situation.
Ermias was a student for 3 years and was selected as president of the Boys Home Resident Council. He initially was enrolled in the Boys Home School for remediation and then attended the local high school. He graduated in 2013.
Ermias has many interests and talents, particularly art, music and video. His artwork was selected for the 2011 Boys Home Christmas card and he has received recognition in local art contests. Ermias is interested in a possible vocation in music production through his future plans are sketchy.
