Reno Taini

Upon return from the retreat, everyone was friends and more students wanted to attend. It was a place where students could express who they were in a safe place. Things continued to get better, funding improved, they got a Federal grant. The school district wanted peace, to keep kids in school and cheap. There were community resources—no one said no.
A video was shown, unfortunately the sound quality wasn’t great, but we could see student interviews, plenty of activity scenes and a Ross MacGowan piece featuring Jefferson High School’s program.
His approach with kids is personal and he shares his story with them. The orientation is to reorient them back into their lives. They backpack in Los Padres Forest, face challenges and work together. We saw several testimonials from students who participated in the program. Several said it instilled confidence. They helped one another with a ropes course. They spoke of the leap of trust. There is a ten day shake down hike through tough terrain with huge packs. Teamwork is reinforced over and over again.
Reno has also gotten the kids involved in other projects like helping AIDS victims. They prep and deliver meals.

Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
United States of America