As I approach my 5-year anniversary with Bald Ridge Lodge (BRL), I am filled with gratitude and excitement. Since I began as Executive Director in January 2020, much has evolved, yet our core mission remains steadfast. BRL continues to provide teen boys with a safe and therapeutic home-like environment, a mission that grows more profound with each passing day.

Our Group Home has become more than just "home-like"; it has truly become home for many young men who have stayed with us for years. This transformation is a testament to our dedicated volunteers and donors whose unwavering support makes our life-changing work possible.

Over the past five years, we have witnessed significant changes. The boys who come to BRL are generally older, stay for longer periods, and are more likely to age out of Foster Care while with us. This shift means our residents are experiencing more milestones and major life events under our roof. Currently, we have seven residents at various stages of working toward their driver’s licenses and car ownership—a clear indication of their growth and progress.

Inspired by these changes, we embarked on developing an Independent Living Program to help young men transition into adulthood. Next month, we celebrate the 1-year anniversary of this innovative program, a milestone made possible by YOU, our incredible community of supporters.

Your generosity and care have empowered the young men in our community to experience transformed lives and brighter futures. As I reflect on the past five years at BRL and the past year of the Independent Living Program, I am overwhelmed with appreciation for all you have contributed to making BRL a place these young men proudly call home.

Thank you for being an integral part of our journey and for continuing to support the young men at Bald Ridge Lodge. You are making a lasting difference!

Gratefully,

Angela Dikes

p.s. Please join us on October 6th as we celebrate launching new futures with our Independent Living Program! Click on the above picture for information on the event.