A psychology student at Auburn University, Michael Carter’s first contact with Youth Villages was as an intern on our Bartlett Campus.

That summer, Michael lived on the campus of Christian Brothers University in Midtown Memphis along with a group of interns from across the country. For most of them, the internship was their first hands-on experience counseling children.

Michael was one of several interns who were hired on full-time after their internship ended.

“I loved working with the kids and the joy that came from seeing the smiles on their faces,” he says. “Many of the kids hadn't experienced much joy in their life and seeing them happy is a great experience.”

Of course working with troubled children does not always bring smiles, and being with children with serious behavioral and emotional problems can be challenging.

“Each resident is different, and staff has to approach each in a different way,” Michael says. “I had to read about each resident and try to relate to them, which helped me get some ideas of how to talk to them when they were feeling upset or mad.”

Michael has been promoted to senior overnight teacher-counselor. Although there are other advancement opportunities, he says he has been holding back because he enjoys working directly with the children, something he would get to do less in a more management-oriented position.

Michael’s workday begins at 2 p.m. with a pre-shift meeting with fellow staff and supervisors. He and other staff then walk to the campus school to pick up the kids and walk them back to the cottage. Once there, the afternoons are divided between group therapy, gym time, leisure time, life skills training and other activities. After dinner, staff supervise as the kids complete their chores and get ready for bed. Shifts end at 10:30. giving staff time to complete paperwork before heading home.

“The culture of Youth Villages is embodied in its mission statement – helping children and families live successfully. That’s why we are all here, to make sure that children are properly helped so they can return to the community and their families if possible. The staff, we are a family, and we work together to give our best to help children. It’s very rewarding to see the children go back home to their families or guardians. It makes me feel accomplished helping children get a start on a new life.”