A program in Florida takes troubled teens around the world as a step to healing.
Tyler Howell is your average 18-year-old boy. His family loves him, his whole life is ahead of him, and he’s made some mistakes. Unfortunately, Howell has made more mistakes than his peers, and since 9th grade those mistakes started him down a path of trouble. “I’ve learned from my mistakes,” the teen says now though.
The teen’s troubles began when he took to a life of crime and drugs during his freshman year of high school, sending his life spiraling out of control. According to him, he had more than 30 arrests and his parents were desperate to save him.
“I would bet my life against it, I never thought we would be headed down this path ever,” said Howell’s mom, Andy.
It was during Howell’s last court appearance that he learned about an innovative program in Florida that helps the most critical cases of troubled teens. He was chosen to sail around the world with “Sail for Justice.” It’s a program co-founded by Mark Hunter, a man with his own past as a troubled youth.
Hunter was a troubled teen himself, leading him to start the charity in his Florida community. The program has received hundreds of applicants from around the world, but only seven slots are available to participate in the World Atlantic Rally. One of these spots will go to Howell.
“We were looking for individuals that the system consider too far gone. You know, in and out of programs for most of their teenage years and there is nothing left,” said Hunter.
A second chance for Tyler and his family.
Howell’s parents have spent their lives as a paramedic firefighter and an ER nurse, taking care of people. Now, they are thanking the community and God for helping them take care of their son. The kindness of others led to the opportunity, as donations to the non-profit program are responsible for their son’s second chance.
“I do not know how many times I thank God for this opportunity,” said Jerry, Tyler’s dad.
“I believe it is going to save his life,” adds his mother.
Tyler knows he can’t put a price on hope and the opportunity he’s received. “I know I can turn my life around,” the teen says.
In just two weeks the teen will embark on a sailboat journey for that chance. A documentary crew is following his every step.
“Sail for Justice” is a program for critical troubled teens who need it as their last resort. While the program offers an incredible once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, its limited availability makes it a small chance for families in need. For other families who need to help their teen and need a program to turn to, Turning Winds offers innovative services to help teens and their families heal.
Turning Winds Academic Institute is a therapeutic boarding school in Montana that provides help for troubled teens and their families with an exceptional degree of success. Here, you’ll find the benefits of a wilderness program, a therapeutic boarding school, and a residential treatment center (RTC), all in one safe, beautiful, and peaceful location. Find out if our program may be right for you and your family by contacting us at (800)-845-1380.
