Lisa’s* grandchildren, Ricky* and Jaime*, experienced trauma even before they were born. Their mother was addicted to drugs. They were abused and neglected as babies. Lisa and her late husband obtained full custody of their grandchildren when Ricky was 2 years old and Jaime was 6 months old.

The trauma Ricky and Jaime experienced at such a young age still affects them to this day. Now teenagers, they are rebellious, confused and have mental health challenges. They struggle with anger and aggression.

Last fall, their defiant behaviors got them into trouble, and put on probation.

“We were a mess before Highfields,” said Lisa. “I was not in control, the kids were. There was no discipline or structure.”