Where Vulnerable Youth Find Healing, Belonging, and Direction
A New Year: Goals and Growth
As 2025 rolls into February, I take a moment to remember how many people (like you) are needed for Raintree Village to fulfill its mission.
When we count Board members, staff, volunteers, donors, church leaders, and community advocates, the number hovers around 500 annually.
Each, including you, fills a valuable role. We can’t help troubled kids without your prayers and support. So, thank you!
In particular, I thank our Board of Directors for their service and vision. They met here on January 18 to discuss current operations and future plans. I am grateful for their questions, insights, and commitment.
Based on that meeting, let me share key goals for 2025:
- Serve 30 kids on campus by July.
- Earn approval for our Behavioral Health Services program (see more info below).
- Hire more qualified Behavior Specialists.
- Finish our sidewalk project (see more info below).
- Renovate the bathrooms in Live Oaks cottage.
- Pay off the debt of approximately $200,000.
In his second year chairing the Board, Steven Peterson led that meeting. He inspired us with his heart for this ministry! Considering he has served on the Board for 30 years, I encourage you to read his comments below.
Gratefully,
Kenny Holton
Executive Director
Board of Directors Spotlight
A Message from the Board Chair
I’m Steven Peterson, Raintree Village Board Chair and Follower of Christ. Allow me to share why Raintree Village means so much to me.
Thirty years ago, an Elder at the East Point Church of Christ (south side of Atlanta) asked me to consider helping the children of Raintree. As I considered this, I thought of my parents and the love they had for five children who needed a home. My parents spoke with my 11 siblings and me, expressing the need for our family to bring those five children into our house.
That day, three girls and two boys became part of my family! I never looked at my Mom and Dad the same again. They were larger than life to me, and those children are still my brothers and sisters today.
Speaking on behalf of Raintree’s Board Members, we put our thoughts into action because we know who we serve and why. God’s Word says in Matthew 25:40 (NIV), “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” This is the foundation that allows us to work as a body for Christ, always putting our children’s needs first.
Our mission is to provide a God-centered environment based on Truth, where children develop into the young people God needs them to be. They have the opportunity to grow up strong, resilient, and understanding that each is important to the Lord.
As Board Members, we are blessed to serve the children of Georgia and our Lord Jesus Christ. As we look forward to 2025, the Board Members will continue to recognize the needs of our children and will make sure to provide for them in the following ways:
- The young people will grow through education, preparing them for life.
- We will provide a place where the kids understand their safety is paramount.
- Their spirits and bodies will never go hungry.
Raintree Village will be a Light to everyone who goes there!
Program Spotlight
Behavioral Health Services
We believe one of the keys to guiding children and teens through difficult circumstances is providing effective behavioral health services on site. That’s why we are seeking state approval for this program.
Behavioral health refers to the connection between behaviors and the well-being of the body, mind, and spirit.
Our licensed counselors and therapists play a vital role in promoting mental health, emotional well-being, and positive behavior change among residents. Their expertise, compassion, and dedication contribute to creating a safe and supportive environment where the kids can heal, grow, and thrive.
We don’t have space to give details, but here are five benefits of having licensed counselors and therapists for vulnerable youth at Raintree Village:
- Individualized Mental Health Support
- Crisis Intervention and Emotional Regulation
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Skill-Building and Positive Reinforcement
- Collaboration and Continuity of Care
Our goal in providing behavioral health services is to provide the resources and support needed for troubled youth to enhance and manage their mental and behavioral well-being.
Make a Difference!
Why are sidewalks such a big deal?
As mentioned above, one of our goals this year is to complete the installation of new sidewalks across our campus. Why is this important?
For decades, staff and kids have had to walk across grassy areas to get from one building to another. Those treks to various parts of campus wear paths in the grass. As you can imagine, when it rains or snows, conditions become difficult, messy, and unsafe.
Adding the sidewalks solves those problems and enhances the appearance of our grounds!
Phase One was finished last year (you can see one section in the photo below). We need to start Phase Two, but…
It costs $15,000.
Considering the benefits of connecting every building–and adding lights and benches–this is a process we must complete.
Will you consider supporting this important project? Your contribution ensures our staff and kids have easier, cleaner, and safer access to all facilities.
You can also mail a check to:
Raintree Village
c/o Kenny Holton
3757 Johnston Rd.
Valdosta, GA 31601
