In June of 1996, I left the Eastside of Bakersfield and headed to the Sequoia National Forest for my first day of R.M. Pyles Boys Camp. At that time, I was only 5’2’’ and 180lbs and did not have a lot of direction in life. My family was split, I lacked confidence, and I spent a lot of time indoors. As I stepped off the bus, I felt both nervous and excited, but had no idea that this would be a critical changing point in my life.
Over the next few years, I earned the opportunity to come back and be part of the Pyles Camp Family. I learned how to set goals for myself and overcome adversity, work with others to improve the functionality of a group, and communicate effectively as a leader. At 17, I was given the responsibility to become a counselor and I knew I wanted to be a better person, the best version of me, for the boys. This was a defining moment for many reasons. I knew I had the opportunity to make a difference in the world, so I pushed myself for others. I took this mentality back to the city and started working both in and out of the classroom. I set goals to perform well in school, strive to help others, and live a meaningful life. Not only did I want to make my family proud, but I wanted to make Pyles proud.
Gizmo, seen in the blue bandanna in front, with the 2018 PLTs
Because of Pyles, I was able to graduate from San Diego State University with my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Master’s degree in Education, and eventually earned an Educational Specialist degree in School Psychology. In addition, I was recruited in 2013 to teach courses in San Diego State’s Counseling and School Psychology Program, where I continue to train new school psychologists to this day. As a school psychologist, I’ve been able to help thousands of kids find hope by using some of the same strategies Pyles once used on me.
However, my biggest success has been becoming a father. The morals and teachings of Pyles camp live in my every step, which my children see. My two youngest children are happy, healthy, and enjoy the stories I tell them about camp. My oldest, Charger, has also worked his way through camp to become a counselor. As a result, Pyles has really come full-circle and I am forever indebted to my home away from home.
-Gizmo