PETS Graduation

First semester of Lad Lake has come to an end, and so the boys that were participating in the PETS (Positive Empathy Training for Success) program graduated.

I am very proud at the end of each semester of how far the students have come. Not only have their training skills improved, but they have achieved personal growth as well.

One of the boys who tended to get frustrated and shut down in the beginning learned to become more patient and adapt if things didn't go the way he thought he should. Another went from being bossy with the other boys to becoming a true team member who could express himself without belittling. A third boy who used to run away from school when his emotions got the better of him, learned to control himself so that he could attend the program at HAWS.

Each semester I make a video for the boys comprised of the video and photos that were taken during their time here and add music. Because it's a gift for pre-teen and teenage boys, the music I use is for them. The boys get the video, as well as files containing photos and unedited video and a certificate of completion.

The video embedded here is an edited version of what I made for the boys.

Creative Projects for HAWS

I have many wonderful teachers in Waukesha County that contact me on a regular basis to come and speak to their classrooms. Most of teachers use my visit to teach their students about giving back to the community, and work on a classroom service project to benefit HAWS.

Of of these teachers is Ms. Killian-Janicek at North Junior High School in Menomonee Falls. Once again students in her Creative Projects class made beds and toys to benefit HAWS (seen in the photo with Mystic). As someone who is totally devoid of any sewing skill whatsoever, I'm in awe of the beautiful work -- which must have taken them hours and hours.

Thank you Ms. Killian-Janicek and your students!