Wow! What a difference! During the first week of New Horizons II 2008 I was there to assist with registration, etc. I made some conclusions about my future in this type of work and the type of clients with whom I want to work. I was dealing with young people from a completely different cultural background than that which I know. Some of them realized and understood this, but many did not.

The one thing that I did overlook was that each one of these young people wanted a future. The problem is that they did not have proper guidance. Some of the men would come to the program with their trousers hanging down and some of the women with inappropriate tops.

In six weeks these people learned how to dress and they also learned respect. During the first week they would often interrupt the speaker. On the last day, they listened to what the speakers had to say. I was greatly impressed.

Do we need more programs like this for our young people? Absolutely! We need these programs and we need for our financial leaders, athletic stars, and political leaders to "get dirty" with these kids and show them what is acceptable behavior and what is not. They need positive role models.

On Graduation Day, I drove to the school with fear. But I needed the money. So I went there. I was very pleasantly surprised. As soon as I approached the building, some of the students saw me and waved and say, "Hello, Mr. Bishop." I could feel the positiveness in their voices.

When I went inside, I came across several other students and they all greeted me with respect. They really made me feel special.

I left the school feeling very positive about the students and the program. I hope that the Y of Central Maryland will expand it next year. This year they had only 50 slots. They need at least 100, I think.