Your Leadership Gift at Work: George W. Harris Youth Shelter and the Young Leaders Society

Anthony* is an 11-year-old-boy who came from a lower income family supported by a single mother. He was brought to the George W. Harris Youth Shelter as he was not attending his elementary school on a regular basis. He has missed many days of school and even refused to leave his home or the sight of his mother. He was legally truant and risked failing school.

Initially, the youth and his family were seen for counseling through Youth and Family Alternatives non-residential services. He was then court ordered to the shelter for thirty-four days. Working in collaboration with the non residential counselor, the youth was able to attend school in Bartow on a daily basis and he continued to be seen for counseling.

After completing thirty-four days at the shelter, the youth returned home. His mother reported that he is attending school on a daily basis with no prompting. In fact, he is beginning to enjoy school and is getting the most out of the social and learning environment.

There are many reasons why youth end up at the George W. Harris Youth Shelter. They accept runaways and youth who are homeless or in need of short-term out of home respite placement. Many are in need of emergency shelter due to abuse and/or neglect or are youth in foster care who have experienced a disruption in their foster placement. The program provides 24 hour, 7 day a week admission services, youth supervision, food, clothing, crisis counseling, life skills education, individual and family counseling, recreation and leisure time activities and case management services.

Our Young Leaders Society (YLS) visited the George W. Harris Youth Shelter last March. After taking a tour of the shelter, YLS members prepared and served dinner to the youth before enjoying an entertaining game of trivia.

“Our visit at The Harris Youth Shelter was such an awesome experience! I am really looking forward to the next volunteer opportunity!” –Christie Bassett, Highlands Grove Elementary

“My overall impression of the situation was awe. No one should have to go through what these kids have been through. It was a humbling experience to be able to enrich their lives in such simple ways. It's also encouraging that such an organization exists to bring kids the protection, love, and stability they deserve. It should be our duty as community members to support such efforts. I pray for their success and protection.” -Jay Chastain, Chastain-Skillman, Inc.

“My step daughter and I both enjoyed it and it gave her a unique perspective on other teenagers’ lives. Instead of adopting a child off the angel tree this year, Ashley wants to adopt a kid from the shelter. Really great experience!” –Marie Mason, Publix Super Markets, Inc.

*Client's name has been changed.