Today, Kodie is a typical “All American” kid! He is good looking, well rounded, popular and very focused on his future. This is a far cry from the skinny, tough teen who arrived at the Ranch just two years ago. “I was a pretty angry young kid whose grades were in the pits,” he said matter-of-factly. “Home was not a place I wanted to be and my attitude showed it.”

“When I heard about the Ranch, I was skeptical but knew anything was better than a future filled with trouble.” Soon after arriving, Kodie earned a spot on the Riding Ranches team. He enjoyed working with the horse and began to demonstrate patience, discipline and a good work ethic.

As the school year went by, Kodie’s grades improved significantly. He wanted to move from the school on campus to the school in town and knew it would take both good grades and good behavior. Kodie finally reached his goal entered Suwannee High School this fall.

Encouraged to expand his horizons and take on new challenges, Kodie joined the swim team. He skims quickly through the water as his lean muscular frame moves him on to victory. “I like the swim team... you compete both individually and as a team. It is challenging, tiring and exciting all at the same time!”

Back on campus, Kodie has emerged as a leader in his cottage. When the Ranch received the financial blessings to re-open a closed cottage, Kodie was asked to move into the cottage with the new boys. At first he didn’t understand why he had been chosen, then Boys Ranch Program Director Brad Gregory explained to him that his leadership skills and positive peer influence was exactly what the new kids would need as they adjusted to life at the Ranch. Kodie immediately stepped up and took on this challenge with a sense of confidence and pride.

Striving to carve out his future, Kodie plans on a strong finish during the next two years of high school. He would like to go to college and eventually become an Agricultural Teacher which will blend his love of animals, earth and the outdoors with his leadership skills and talents. Kodie is bright, healthy example of the change that can be made in the life of a boy in need. “The Ranch is the best place in the world for a kid who needs help. I am so thankful our donor friends made a place like this possible for me.”