Luis's Success

Luis is a 17 year old Hispanic male that has been involved with Maryland Choices since December 2009, stemming from threats to blow up his school, and for his gang involvement. He has received two extensions in the program due to the nature of his situation. Luis’ child and family team has been supporting him with school achievement and attendance, effective family communication, immigration status issues, and helping the family with basic necessities.

Shortly after the team obtained the first extension from the Local Coordinating Council for Luis and his family, Luis’ mother was detained by immigration police. She remains in detention pending deportation. The absence of Luis’ mother has greatly affected Luis and worsened the already strained relationship between Luis and his stepfather.

In addition to his mother being detained and out of the home, Luis’ aunt, who had planned to take Luis in, was also detained by immigration. Further aggravating his challenges, in early 2011 Luis’ stepfather was also detained by immigration. He was released the same day but is now under house arrest. Luis assumed care-giving responsibilities for his two younger siblings, ages 13 and 6.

Luis’ team is helping to address many needs. Luis is currently involved in weekly individual and family therapy sessions. As Luis has a history of conflict with his stepfather, the stepfather participates in family therapy when appropriate. To help him academically, Luis also has weekly sessions with his guidance counselor at his high school. His goal is to continue onto the 11th grade and graduate on time with his classmates next year. The team was also able to obtain “Bridges for Success” vouchers to help Luis and his family with basic necessities. The team also supported the family with financial assistance for legal representation and housing purposes, and has coordinated psychiatric evaluation for Luis, who is now responsibly taking medication to address his ADHD diagnosis.

Luis is now successfully employed in Silver Spring, Maryland. Not only does Luis continue to care for his two younger siblings, he has also increased his financial contributions in the home. Luis has learned to communicate better and has learned to implement coping skills when things in the home become hostile. Both Luis and his stepfather are coping without Luis’ mother being present.