Boysville: A Place to Live... A Place to Grow

May 17, 2010

Most 7 year-olds are full of energy and excitement.  Most 7 year-olds are dreaming of becoming a fireman, a policeman or an astronaut.   Most 7 year-olds have at least one parent to encourage those dreams. 

But for 7 year-old Marcos, his dream was to have a place to live…a place to grow.  Marcos wanted a home.   

At 7 years-old, Marcos was scared and angry.  His parents had abandoned him.  He arrived at Boysville with brothers, Sergio, Jesus, Jose and sister, Dora.   Caring family members who wanted the best for Marcos and his brothers and sister, brought them to Boysville.  Family members placing children at Boysville continue to be involved in all decisions of the child’s life.

Now 17, Marcos’ home is Boysville.  While living at Boysville, Marcos has participated in 4-H, FCA, played the lead in the Christmas play, as well as many other activities.

But ask Marcos what his favorite memory is of Boysville so far, and his eyes light up when he talks about Home Olympics (H’Olympics). 

The H’Olympics is an Olympic style competition among children’s home throughout the United States. Children compete in basketball, volleyball, track and field, swimming and softball.

“The best time was in 2004,” said Marcos, smiling brightly.  “We played here in San Antonio and I got to play with the senior boys team.”   Marcos enjoys playing basketball and has played on the Boysville team for years. 

It hasn’t always been easy for Marcos.  Being abandoned left him feeling angry and hurt.  He would sometimes lash out at those who care for him.  Marcos credits Mr. Steve, a relief house-parent, along with our therapists, for helping him see where his anger came from and how best to deal with it. 

When Marcos graduates next year, he plans to attend the University of Houston and major in kinesiology to become a coach.   Even after he leaves Boysville for college, he will continue to receive support through our transitional living program.  This program helps children emotionally and financially as they transition into their next phase of life. 

Marcos knows that he will always have a place to call home in Boysville.