Xavier

A future restored

Xavier dropped out of school in 10th grade.  He challenged authority, had behavioral problems, began abusing drugs, and ended up on the streets.  His mother was at a loss.  When Xavier finally decided he wanted help, he found treatment and shelter at the Salvation Army Men’s Center.  They referred him to SEARCH’s Adult Learning Center where he obtained his GED in just four months.  Our teachers helped him pursue a scholarship to complete a semester at Houston Community College. He has since enlisted in a six-year Air Force program to serve his country and hopes to go to college study engineering.

His mother wrote us a long letter, expressing her gratitude for our work with Xavier. She included a poem by Xavier’s little brother:

“ Roses are red
Voilets are blue
Do you know Xavier
I know you do
He is the brother I love
Like a flying dove
He has much in his life
But he cut through it
like a knife
For him its been like a hike
So here are some things we like
Video games, dogs
The only thing we don’t
like is eggnogs
He’s going to the Air Force soon

I will miss him
Without him, my life will be a little dim
Yes, we will miss you
But God will be with you too.

Love You Boy Yay “

Some of Xavier’s former classmates still struggle with going back to the streets day in and day out. Case managers try their best to find housing but because of limited options, approximately 5,000 people each day remain on Houston’s streets.  Despite the many obstacles, our students remain committed to achieving their academic goals.