Down by the river ... Audra Towsley enjoys a day canoeing with her husband Ted and her two sons Aidan and Shawn.
Dear Friends,
When I met the Argiros family over 20 years ago I had no idea what an impact it would have on my life. I was a sophomore in high school when my parents became friends with Tony and Betty. All that I really understood was that these people were involved in AA like my dad, that they took kids who needed help into their home, and that their home was on a farm. I love animals so it really sounded good to me!
I had an opportunity to spend a weekend at “The Family” when I was 15 years old. Things were much different than they are today. It was at a different location, it was a working farm and I believe there were about 15 kids with them at that time. I had such a fun weekend. Everyone worked and played together, and it really was just like a family.
My family kept in contact with the Argiroses and my father, Bob Runge, ended up going to work for Tony and Betty several years later.
In the spring of 1996 I came to visit my father, and Mike Argiros offered me a job. It sounds a bit cliché but that is how it all started. There were about 70 students here at the time in three families.
When I started work I never thought that my life would take such a dramatic turn physically, spiritually and emotionally. It has been one of the best things that ever happened to me aside from marrying my husband and having my two sons. The school is a place where I have been able to give back every day the graces that God has given me. I used to tell people there is no other place I could get paid to help people and have fun doing it–playing volleyball, soccer, going shopping, and teaching kids how to have fun in sobriety using the 12 Steps.
Of course it hasn’t all been easy. There have been days when the only way I survived was by reciting the Serenity Prayer and the Jesus Prayer nonstop! But between my Higher Power and the 12 Steps, I always made it through.
I have been blessed by all the families I have come into contact with over the years. It gives me great joy to see families reunited and to know God has bestowed that gift after lots of hard work. My life has been enriched by so many people that have come and gone from here. My first son is named after Shawn M. C., a former student, one of three killed in a car accident. Shawn had become a young man of integrity. Ted and I have hopes that our son will grow up to be as fun-loving, respectful and honorable as Shawn became.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010 was my last day at The Family Foundation School. It concluded almost 14 years of laughter and tears. It was a difficult decision but my sons must come first. Even though few of the staff are actually family members of mine, they all feel like family. It has been hard to say good-bye, but I will keep the school, the staff and the students in my prayers.
I have been given a great gift. Thank you to the Argiros family, and to all the families of The Family Foundation School.
Fondly,
Audra Towsley
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Audra, I was sad to hear you are leaving the Family Foundation School, there will be an empty spot, because I saw first hand how great you are with the kids. I wish you the very best and the joy of raising your two boys and the joy of being withthem as they grow…….
Maryjane Faatz
Dear Audra,
I was sad to read that you left FFS. Thank you for all of your care and support with Ted and all of our family. Of course, your sons must come first. Best to you and your family. You will be missed.
Kim Mandel
Audra, Thank you for friendship at the FFS. I wish you, Ted, and the boys the best in your new journey. You definitly made an impact on many people, staff and students. You and Ted will be missed. Keep in touch.
Your Friend, Tommy