Rydell’s Journey
At just 18 years old, Rydell has already faced more challenges than most people do in a lifetime. Born and raised in Houma, Louisiana, his childhood was anything but stable. He entered the foster care system at just eight years old, bouncing between five different placements over the next several years. Each new home meant a new school, new rules and new people to navigate. But it also meant another layer of instability—another chance for disappointment.
By the time he was placed in the Clayton Family Home at Boys Town Louisiana five years ago, he had already developed a rebellious streak. Moving from home to home had taught him that toughness was survival. He put up walls, refusing to be vulnerable, believing that strength meant never showing weakness. But deep down, he wanted more—stability, security and a future he could build for himself.
A Turning Point
By the time Rydell arrived at Boys Town’s emergency shelter at 12, he was just starting to realize that change had to start with him. No one had ever told him how to succeed. For years, he just showed up at school—never doing homework, never studying. But at Boys Town, he found mentors and role models who guided him, giving him the tools to set real goals and take control of his life.
Jackie, one of the first people to truly see him, helped him realize that toughness wasn’t about shutting people out—it was about trusting the right people and allowing himself to grow. Jackie taught him how to build trust by being vulnerable.
He also discovered that education was the key to building the future he wanted. He threw himself into his studies, focusing on school for the first time in his life. He found a love for chemistry and psychology and gained leadership experience through JROTC.
Looking Ahead
Now a senior at New Orleans Military & Maritime Academy (NOMMA), Rydell has his sights set on a future full of opportunity. He has already enlisted in the Louisiana National Guard and will leave for basic training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, on July 1. After completing his training, he will begin his undergraduate studies at the University of New Orleans (UNO) in spring 2025, majoring in naval architecture and marine engineering. He plans to live on campus and continue building the life he once thought was impossible.
A New Perspective on Family
Boys Town was different from any foster home he had ever lived in. It wasn’t about fitting into a mold—it was about adapting, growing and creating a community. Here, he learned that family isn’t just about where you come from—it’s about the people who shape you, support you and believe in you.
Now, he’s not just planning for a future—he’s building one, laying a strong foundation so that one day, he can provide for those around him and create the stability he never had growing up. His journey is proof that with the right guidance, a willingness to change and the courage to be vulnerable, anything is possible.
This year, with Rydell’s permission, we’ll be following his journey as he navigates his final months of high school, embarks on basic training with the National Guard and prepares for his first semester of college. We’re honored that he’s allowing us to share this exciting transition, offering a glimpse into the challenges, growth and triumphs of stepping into adulthood.
Stay tuned as Rydell takes on this next chapter—one built on resilience, determination and a future he’s creating for himself.