| Referral Methods | |
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Wherever possible, the Gauchos provides support systems necessary for their players to stay in school. Students who receive failing grades are taken out of play and Gauchos staff member's work with the schools and other city programs to arrange tutorial help. An on-site tutoring program is in the planning stages and on a limited basis, tutoring by Gauchos volunteers is currently available at the gym. Often a youngster's difficulties at school or in the gym are indicative of a larger family problem. Gauchos' staff can do what they can to address a family's real needs. If a youngster needs advice he gets it; if he needs shoes, he gets them; if his family needs help in charting a course through the maze of city welfare agencies, we refer them and give them guidance. The Gauchos' staff have gone to court, raised bail, and otherwise served as the youngsters' advocates and champions during especially distressing periods in their lives. The staff members are the middle ground. They are there to help the youngster through the teenage peer pressure. Gauchos' staff provides kids with counseling on selecting area high schools, SAT preparation classes, colleges and junior colleges and other programs and services. Staff interest in Gauchos players does not end with high school or even college graduation. Graduates who go away to school are in frequent contact with staff for advice and encouragement. From time to time, staff travels to visit them at school, providing a friendly contact from home. The youngster really likes getting the visit because it means someone really cares and has a true interest in their success. |
