September 2019 Newsletter

Growth = Change

As simple as that equation above might seem, there’s actually a lot of “math” that factors into it. As we’ve attempted to clear up the uncertainties surrounding our Short Term Residential Treatment Program (STRTP), we’ve gotten away from what truly works for our population. That makes NOW the perfect time to “Get Back to Basics,” and reestablish a solid foundation that will set our programs up for continued success.

Accountability, especially self-accountability, must be part of that foundation. We have to hold ourselves accountable to accepting (and even embracing) change and to achieving our goals, even when those changes scare us and those goals seem out of reach.

Growth is uncomfortable. It is challenging, and it is difficult. But it’s not impossible … because nothing is. You may not be able to see beyond the next turn on your personal road, but having faith in your ability to handle the journey is half the battle.

Together, we will make it to our destination!

Kevin Jordan

Executive Director

Dr. Juan Bautista

This month, we’d like to spotlight loyal KYJO partner Dr. Juan Bautista, who is one of our most consistent supporters.

Dr. Bautista is a former Fresno State football player (and team co-captain) who went on to study pre-med at Columbia University in New York before graduating from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Dr. B has always been interested in nutrition, exercise, and global health – which is why he’s been such a strong supporter of KYJO’s Big B.A.N.G. Weekend football camp. In fact, for the last few years, Dr. B’s medical team has volunteered as our official medical staff for the weekend.

But Big B.A.N.G. Weekend is not even close to the only way in which Dr. Bautista gives back to our community. He consistently donates free services to underserved high school athletes, and he provides scholarships to area students through The Bautista Foundation. In fact, one of KYJO’s own case managers, Terrance Dennis, just received an “Unfinished Business” scholarship from The Bautista Foundation, which will allow him to return to school and obtain his law degree.

Dr. Bautista is more than just a doctor; he’s a man of the people. Be sure to check him out online, and join us in thanking Dr. B for all he’s done not just for KYJO, but for our community.

This summer, our residents took cooking lessons, volunteered throughout our community, and built friendships among themselves with an all-house BBQ! They also practiced self-care by enjoying a day of hiking, seeing waterfalls, and swimming in the lake.

To round things out this month, we’d like to issue a special shout-out to our youngest KYJO resident for dominating at our 10th Annual Summer Olympic Games – by winning 1st place in the essay division, 2nd place for his artwork, and being voted Most Inspirational by his team.

– Katie Counts, Life Skills Coach

In the middle of August, our Foster Family Agency celebrated the last weekend of summer at Wild Water Adventure Park in Clovis, before our foster youth headed back to school for the fall. We hope everyone had a great day at the waterpark (and is having an equally great time back at school)!

– Sienna Curtin, FFA Operations Manager

This Month’s Rock Star: Katie Counts

This month’s Rock Star is the type of staff member you don’t come across very often. She possesses a strong will and the desire to better our residents, her co-workers, and our organization, regardless of the obstacles she must overcome to do so.

Life Skills Coach Katie Counts recently added two more residential homes to her already-full plate, because she knew those residents needed her help. Understanding the word “sacrifice,” Katie altered her schedule to make sure our residents have access to the coaching they need. She did this absolutely of her own accord, without any prompting from us.

Katie, KYJO appreciates your desire to make a difference, and we want to continue to support you and see you grow! That’s why you’re this month’s KYJO Rock Star.