When a child turns 18, they “age out” of foster care. While they are given the opportunity to sign up for programs that provide support until they turn 21, most do not have the discipline to meet the requirements necessary to retain those services. They are simply not prepared to manage life on their own. Our Launch pad Program is designed to provide a safe home, with clear boundaries and expectations stemming from a place of trust based on relationships developed while participating in our other programs. The focus of the Launch Pad home is to provide a stable family environment where we can meet the boys’s physical, emotional, and educational needs while showing them the love of Christ.
While participating in the program, the boys have the opportunity to finish high school, Find employment, open a checking account, and learn to drive. We encourage them to set personal goals and then guide them in developing a plan of action to achieve those goals. As they continue to mature they have the opportunity to pursue trade school or college, learn how to manage their money, buy a car and begin saving for their own apartment.
Every week the boys check in with the house mentor to evaluate their progress so they can make any necessary changes to help them reach their goals. By providing the boys with love and stability, we believe they will be able to develop an identity that supports personal responsibility and success.
Testimonies from the Boys
Andrew, 18
I met the people at Ram at a skills day. It was fun and a way to get out of the house. People with Ram always want to see the best in you. They want to see you succeed in life and not go back to the dark place you were in. I chose to move into the Launch pad house because it was a better environment than moving home. And I have more opportunities. If I had gone back home I would have dropped out of school, and not had people to go to for advice. Ram gives me support and I have people that give me good advice and hold me accountable for my decisions. So far I have opened a bank account, started saving to buy a car, got my driver's license and will start trade school in a few weeks. Back home I would have no future, here my future is good.
Kam, 21
When I first came to the Launch pad house I knew the other boys so I felt like it would be a good thing. I already knew the people running the house because I met them at Skills and camp. I knew I could trust them and I felt safe. Since living in the Launch pad house my life has changed. My anxiety has gone away and I no longer need to smoke weed. I am still working on my self-discipline and learning I can do hard things. I have learned alot to prepare me to be on my own.
I know I need to work full time and save money. I know I will be able to make it when I live on my own. I have learned to trust people and I feel like I'm growing closer to God everyday. Without Ram I would be living in Louisiana. I would have dropped out of high school and still have a lot of anxiety and be upset about everything and want to fight all the time. But with RAM I don't have anxiety, I feel more peaceful and I don't want to fit all the time. In LA I felt like I didn't have a future with RAM, I feel like I have one. I hope someday RAM is able to open more homes for kids that need help with the life that is going on around them right now.
J, 16
I like to go to Bible Study because it helps me have a good week and stay focussed on good things so I can make good choices.
D, 17
When I go to Bible Study I feel better.