Where do your referrals come from?
The boys are referred and placed with Carpenter's Way by the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS). The children have been removed from their homes by DFCS due to abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
How many children live at Carpenter's Way?
About 24 boys currently live at Carpenter's Way.
What are the ages of the children at Carpenter's Way?
We accept children from age 6 through 18. Currently, the youngest is 7
and the oldest is 18.
What do the boys do there?
The kids do the same normal activities that most children do -- go to school, do chores, participate in extracurricular activities such as sports like basketball, soccer, bicycling, and karate. Several enjoy music and drama. On weekends, we go to places like Pine Mountain, Callaway Gardens, a baseball or hockey game, or Hollywood Connection when possible. Children are allowed more privileges and activities by showing proper behavior, respect, and responsibility at home and at school. In addition, some boys have jobs and work after school and/or on weekends.
Is Glenn Davis involved at Carpenter's Way?
Yes. Since founding Carpenter's Way in 1991 (and opening in spring 1992),
Glenn Davis has primarily been involved behind the scenes getting the community involved. Glenn is an active board member and public speaker. He works regularly reaching out to businesses, churches, and community groups to inform them of how they can participate. His vision is for Carpenter's Way to be community-operated.
Are you planning to have girls at Carpenter's Way?
We hope to open a separate girls' home in the near future, possibly before the present 40-acre boys' site is complete.
What happens to the boys after they leave Carpenter's Way?
Many boys continue their education, go into the military, or find employment in a profession they've been trained for. Some have, in fact, gone into the army or are currently working. Some of our boys are adopted by their resource families while they are completing school. Occasionally, we have had to discharge a child for extreme disruptive behavior that affects the other children. These children usually go into more intensive treatment programs or a therapeutic foster home.
How is Carpenter's Way funded?
Approximately 75% of our funding comes from the State of Georgia. We receive a per diem for each child that helps to cover many living expenses. We also have special events each year to raise funds. The rest of our funding comes from various individuals, churches, companies, foundations, and community and civic groups that make annual gifts or pledge monthly sponsorship funds. We call our supporters "our extended family members" since they are directly helping raise the family of children we have at Carpenter's Way.
How can I help or become involved at Carpenter's Way?
One of the greatest needs is "resource families." Your family can become a visiting resource family to one of our boys thus getting involved directly in one child's life. You can also sponsor a child, make an annual gift or monthly pledge, or contribute in-kind gifts and services. Additionally, you can volunteer as a tutor after school, help us research and write grants, and more — It's up to you!
What is needed at Carpenter's Way right now?
Food and clothing are always needed. Teenage boys grow fast and are rough on clothes, especially footwear. They either outgrow or wear out clothing and shoes quickly. Right now, we also need new carpet in one house, a backstop for our athletic field, and some furniture in the Vardaman Community Home. Tickets to special events, movies, football and hockey games, and other activities are always helpful.
