Good Works: Helping youngsters find the right path

05:40 PM CDT on Tuesday, July 5, 2005

By Jerome Gray / 11 News

Click to watch video

It may look like basic training or boot camp, but Seaborne Challenge is neither.

KHOU

Those who choose to attend Seaborne can get their G.E.D. and so much more.

"We're an alternative program to high school for 16 to 18 year olds who basically aren't gonna graduate from high school," explained Director Peggy Baldwin.

Those who choose to attend Seaborne can get their G.E.D. and so much more.

"I got into a little bit of trouble," said Lucia Lopez, 17.

When she was ready to turn her life around, she turned to Seaborne. It wasn't easy at first. Then a few simple words changed her attitude and her future.

"They told me, 'We see potential in her,'" remembered Lucia.

Along with directing Seaborne Challenge, Peggy Baldwin is also part teacher, cheerleader and parent.

"The lifestyle they live is not for everyone. They pop out of bed at 5 in the morning. They go to bed at nine o'clock at night. Their time is structured," explained Baldwin.

While the program she runs starts with getting kids the academics they need to succeed, it doesn't end there.

"It includes physical training..., it includes what we call leadership-followship..., we teach them to write resumes, we teach them to do interviewing," said Baldwin.

In about five months, graduates have their G.E.D. and new goals.

"Now I'm applying at Galveston College," said Lucia.

"This is a program where, every single day, you see the results of your efforts," said Baldwin.

So we salute Peggy Baldwin and everyone at Seaborne Challenge for all of their Good Works.