My name is Ethan*. I am 13 years old and from Kansas. My favorite color is purple, and I enjoy reading and playing NBA 2K. I have a mom and dad, and I have two siblings. My sister just got married about a month ago, and she lives across town from us. I also have a brother. He previously worked for Tyson Chicken and moved to Georgia about a month and a half ago. He is also married, and he has three kids.
I have lived at Boys Ranch Town (BRT) for almost nine months. It was an adjustment getting used to waking up at 5:30 a.m. every morning and living in a house with a bunch of other boys. Every morning I go down to the barn at 6 a.m. Afterward, I eat breakfast, and then we do a devotional as a cottage. From 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., we are in school, and then we are in the barn from 1-5 p.m. At 5 p.m., we go back up to ourcottages, and we have dinner and wind down for the night. I have really enjoyed my time at BRT. I particularly enjoy the show program. I learn important life skills while working in the barn, and a friend on campus has helped me grow in my skills in the show program and with the animals. One of my favorite memories in show program was attending the National Junior Angus Show. The show happened in Tulsa, Oklahoma, this past July. This was the first show I ever really put any effort into, and I was proud of myself for doing so.
My houseparents, the Bashaws, have really made a difference in my life. When I am having a really down day, I know I can count on Mr. Bashaw to be there for me and be someone to talk to. Their son, Brody, has also really become a close friend. Brody is such an encouraging person who is there with me and supports me at all times. I am really grateful for my support system at BRT that helps me become who I am.
Will you join us in bringing love into action for children and families across Oklahoma by seeking help or giving to one of our programs that matter to you?
*Name changed to protect privacy.