Two brothers facing long summer days, wondering how to fill them

School is out for the summer.

There are as many different reactions to this annual event as there are children in the communities. Some are excited and anxious to begin a more carefree existence, at least for a few months. Some are apprehensive about joining summer programs that are totally new to them. Some are looking forward to spending more time with family, neighbors and friends and still others are wondering how they will fill their days.

The two brothers we will introduce today are wondering how they will fill their summer days. Jake is 13 and Kevin is 11. They live about four miles out of town and will be home during this summer while their mother works. Mom works 10-hour days so they are on their own for the better part of most days. Dad left several months ago. They aren't sure why he left or where he went, they just know he isn't there any longer.

Jake is a very outgoing young man. He is an excellent conversationalist. He loves to fish and he would love to learn more about hunting. He has passed his gun safety classwork in hopes that he will someday meet someone with whom he can share this interest. He enjoys athletics but doesn't feel a partner would need to be an athlete, because there are so many other things they could do. He would love to learn woodworking and carving. He would also enjoy hiking.

Kevin also shares his brother's desire to become a more active fisherman and hunter. He has a particular interest in collecting old bottles and jars. He would love to visit museums and places that have collections of things from the past. Additionally, he would like to spend some time on a lake. He would love to go for a boat ride and maybe go to a beach to swim.

The boys were doing well in school and the hope is that they will continue to do well when they resume class in the fall. The concern is that these boys need male role models who will in some small way help to fill the void left by someone who left without warning and without a goodbye. There is a need for someone who will make a commitment of a couple hours a week for one year.

If you are able to help re-build a trust level for one or both of these boys by sharing their interest for a couple of hours each week, please call the Brainerd office at 829-4606, Crosby office at 546-7308 or the Pequot Lakes office at 568-4015. We would be pleased to answer any questions or provide any information you may need.