Even though his classmates were all headed to third period, Draven decided to skip school.

He would often leave school (or not show-up at all) in favor of hanging out with classmates.

Eventually, things got to a point where Draven had to go to a youth shelter, and he wasn’t thrilled.

Eric Scott and Sam Laguerre, youth care specialists for Lutheran Services Florida, greeted Draven and soon learned that he was known as a “runner”. He ran away from home, school, and even the Oasis Youth Shelter. During one of his “escapes”, Jacob Swihura—an intensive care manager — searched all over for him and found him at the library. He learned that Draven was having intense family troubles, and they spent the next minutes figuring out a plan for how he could better resolve conflict and face his issues head-on in a healthy way.

The three LSF employees worked to help Draven identify what his goals were for his life, and Draven told them that he wanted to join the Army.

They all knew that there were physical and academic challenges that could prevent Draven from reaching that goal.

The employees worked together to help him form proper routines to build his physical strength and endurance. They also worked to arrange for him to take the GRE.

The Lutheran Services team offered guidance; Draven put in the work.

When he’s not focusing on his goal of joining the Army, you can find Draven drawing or rapping. He is known for being caring and—despite the struggle and hardships they had—he puts his family first.

Now Draven encourages others at the shelter not to run away from their troubles, and he’s determined to use his experience as an inspiration for young people who are struggling to find their way.

With the Lutheran Services Florida team and his family in his corner, Draven has turned a corner. He’s now focused and hopeful, and he thanks Lutheran Services Florida for helping to show him the way.