The year 2009 has marked a quarter-century of Rite of Passage’s unwavering commitment of providing the best possible services to at-risk youth. From humble beginnings in the Nevada desert with just a few motivated staff and a handful of wayward teenage boys, Rite of Passage has evolved into one of the industry’s premier residential programs. Rite of Passage now provides services in 17 states, operating residential and non-residential programs, as well as community and aftercare services. Nearly 1,200 youth benefit from services provided by Rite of Passage’s 900 dedicated employees each year. Rite of Passage’s incredible growth is a result of a commitment to delivering the most progressive and proven intervention methods while staying true to the company’s original core values. In doing so, Rite of Passage has kept pace with the ever-changing needs of the youth it serves. By utilizing evidence-based practices, positive youth development, cognitive behavioral therapy, and providing dynamic educational offerings, interscholastic and club sports, and real world vocational skills development, thousands of youth have learned how to be pro-social, productive members of the community. On April 29th, Rite of Passage hosted an Open House, inviting stakeholders and the community to share in the celebration and to commemorate the company’s achievements. During student and staff led campus tours, Rite of Passage showcased its newly constructed high school classrooms, dining facility, and dormitories. It was a perfect day to share memories, Academy updates, and to recall and recognize important devotees who have contributed so greatly to its many successes. The campus bustled with guests who took tours on foot and in golf carts. Even Ollie the Trolley was on loan to escort visitors to the outskirts of the campus where they could observe students tending to ranch duties, training in the pool, and learning hands-on skills in their trade of choice. Many commented on how impressed they were with the site improvements. Advisory board member and lawyer, John DeWulf stated, “This campus is really impressive. It will serve thousands of youth in the future.” First Lady of Queen Creek, Brenda Sanders, expressed her excitement regarding the student culture, “I am so encouraged by the boys. There is an obvious light on inside of them. They are genuinely excited about what they are doing here.” A special recognition lunch at the campus’ Saguaro Café was hosted by Chef McCallie and his culinary students. Honorary Ram Awards were given to former House Minority Leader, Art Hamilton, and Queen Creek Mayor and First Lady, Art and Brenda Sanders, for their continued support of Canyon State Academy. Recognition was also given to long-term Rite of Passage volunteers, Father William Mitchell and Barry McBride. The community spoke as well, giving praise to Rite of Passage for exceptional volunteerism with the Special Olympics, Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA), and the Grand Canyon State Games. At the culmination of the day’s events, it was evident that 25 years of positive growth and maturation could not have been accomplished without the combined efforts of dedicated employees, customers, stakeholders, and community involvement. |
