Thomas’ journey from trauma to triumph is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of love, support, and guidance.
Growing up in Washington, D.C., Thomas faced immense challenges, including being bullied and, before his 11th birthday, being shot. Despite these hardships, Thomas found strength in his experiences, which became the foundation for his journey of healing and resilience.
At 16, Thomas arrived at Boys Town, uncertain and anxious. "I had never been in a group home before," he recalled, but his fears quickly dissipated. Upon arrival, he was greeted with warmth and care. For the first time, he experienced the stability of a family and the love of consistent parental figures. "That was the first time I ever ate dinner at a table. And it felt like love," Thomas said.
At Boys Town, Thomas thrived under the guidance of his Family-Teachers®, who taught him essential life skills and helped him transition to adulthood. In addition to practical guidance, they introduced him to faith, forging a strong spiritual connection that would guide him throughout his life. He refers to his Family-Teachers as "godparents" for the spiritual foundation they provided.
With the support of Boys Town, Thomas pursued higher education, earning both an undergraduate degree in psychology and a master's degree. Inspired to give back, he returned to Boys Town as the Director of Community Support Services. “I applied for a job at Boys Town Louisiana and ended up getting the position,” Thomas shared.
Today, Thomas uses his personal experiences to advocate for youth in the foster care system, helping others navigate the challenges he once faced.
His story is a testament to the transformative power of Boys Town’s approach to caring for the whole child—mind, body, and spirit—and its lasting impact on young lives.
