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LIFE STEPS: SUCCESS STORIES  
Appreciating DifferencesAt the age of six, Keith, along with his mother, father and three older brothers, immigrated to the United States from the West Indies in search of a better life. Shortly after the move, Keith's parents separated. They couldn't make their marriage work. It was a trying time for everyone in the family. As Keith grew older, he became increasingly aware of being different from the other kids in his school and neighborhood. His dress and manner of speech revealed his West Indian heritage. The other kids didn't understand him and made fun of him. Keith so much wanted to be like everyone else and to be accepted; he was frustrated and started to misbehave. Keith stayed away from school, got into fights, came home late, and got involved in criminal activity. Keith's mother didn't know what to do; she took him to court, hoping they could help. The court referred Keith to Partnership with Children. Now, fifteen years old, Keith is getting the help he needs. He regularly meets with a counselor, who has weathered many storms with him and his mother. He has participated in Life Steps groups, where he meets other teens and learns how to relate to others in positive ways. His school attendance has improved, he no longer gets into fights, and he doesn't stay out all night. As a result of his involvement with Partnership with Children, Keith is beginning to understand himself and appreciate his differences instead of denying them. | ||||||||||||
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