The Fort Smith Boys Shelter has been in business for 46 years! Something we are very proud of. We also understand that during those 46 years many wonderful people and supporters paved the way for our success. Importantly, our success is not about being open, but helping thousands of children during that time…
We are committed to making a difference in the lives of young men, who by no fault of their own have found themselves in very difficult situations. Consistently, we hear heartbreaking stories of abuse, dysfunctional and frankly unliveable and unbearable situations. .Our mission is to give them a safe environment, both physically and emotionally and try our best to NORMALIZE their lives.
Every organization has its direction and beliefs based on the needs for youth in their care. Many of which are helpful and acceptable. We believe Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, while a motivational theory is spot on in terms of reasonable needs for the youth in our care. Those needs include:
- Physiological needs: Basic necessities like food, water, and shelter.
- Safety needs: Security, stability, and protection.
- Love and belonging needs: Social connections, relationships, and a sense of belonging.
- Esteem needs: Self-esteem, recognition, and achievement.
- Self-actualization: Fulfillment of personal potential and growth.
Above all we work hard on the Safety Needs, understanding that if that need is not met other needs cannot be reached. Then by opening their world to education and opportunity, amazing things happen….
How We Began
Prior to our 40th celebration in 2018 we proposed a name change, one that would more adequately describe our mission and purpose. That subtle name change would be the Fort Smith Boys Home! Why after 40 years would we change it? Because while we understand this is not their home, we have worked very hard to make it more of a home environment, one that the boy's could grow, learn and appreciate. Today, I am happy to acknowledge that we have accomplished that and will continue to improve our home.
Many times, when picking up boy's from appointments, school or work they say, “ are we going home?” and the answer… YES!
A Boys Needs a Dog
Almost always, youth come to us and talk about their pets, most notably their dogs. That appeared to be an easy solution, and we were off to the Shelter to find the perfect fit. That fit was sitting in a cardboard box near the front door being quiet, while other dogs were barking at the top of their lungs. That sold me, a sweet dog who wasn't excitable and would like all children and help make our place a home. So Diesel quickly became one of the boy's and fits in nicely. Almost every boy that comes to the Boys Home says when they leave they want to take Diesel with them! Diesel also thinks he is one of the boy's and always sits upright on the couch believing he is… Sadly, for us, Diesel has moved to another home. It was nothing that he did, it was a matter of some new residents struggling with him and our youth always taking priority. Plans were to bring Diesel back but his new home was perfect, understanding that there is always opportunity for another man’s best friend in the future.
As Paul Harvey would say, “Now the rest of the story” August 15th 2024 the decision was made to find another companion and plans were made to visit with Rocko and mixed breed that needed a home. On that fateful day, I walked in and Rocko didn't seem very interested and “Chevy” walked right up to me and the rest is history! Chevy has been everything we could have hoped for and given staff and all the boy's all the love and attention needed. All he does is lower blood pressure, help anxiety and dissipate anger… so I guess we will keep him!
