when they’re born their mom is the only person they can come to, because they are more like sweet than angry like a dad. She passed away when I was 7.” The way he communicates seems eerily mature for a child who is only 10, hinting that perhaps he has had to grow up just a little too fast.
All in all, though, James is a pretty normal kid. When asked what he would like readers of Davis Life Magazine to know about him, James proves that he is very capable of turning on the charm: “I want to be famous for, did I say my talents? I’m talented, I socialize, and I’m handsome. I’m a pretty good guy. I clean my room, and I like to do sports and socialize with animals.”
Community support is a crucial part of ensuring that programs like Progress Ranch can continue to help children like James feel happy and positive. Aside from the financial donations that help with group activities, birthday parties, toys and clothing, there is also a great need for homework helpers and other volunteers. There is a mentor program in which an adult meets with an individual child a couple times a month on a regular basis, taking him to activities, playing games, or just talking with him. Some families even bring one of the boys on outings with their own children. For more information on helping out, please contact Russ Kusama, director, at 753-2566.