In February 2022, the Red Barn Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Farmington, Utah, abruptly closed its doors, leaving many in the community anxious about the fate of the students who had relied on its support. The closure marked the end of an era for the center, which had served as a crucial resource for rehabilitation. Nearly a year later, many of these students have successfully transitioned to the John Volken Academy, located just a short distance away in North Salt Lake City. Ely Burns, the student council president at John Volken Academy, shared his experiences from the tumultuous time surrounding Red Barn's closure. Having spent 14 months at Red Barn, Burns recalled the heartache that accompanied the announcement of the facility's shutdown. "I was looking at staff, and they’re telling me everything was going to be OK. Coming from my background, I really don’t trust people, but for some reason I trusted them, and John Volken came in, swooped us up, and adopted us," he said. Burns was among the 86 men who faced uncertainty about their futures when the news broke, but the transition to the new academy has since brought hope and new opportunities. The move was not without its challenges. "A lot of work went into the big move, but it’s nothing the students can’t handle," said Nate Workman, another student at the academy. Workman reflected on the difficulties of relocating and adjusting to a new environment. "Just the things we had to do, move out of there and look for a place to live, and then have John Volken step up, and then put the work in. It’s been more than tough, but it’s been really rewarding," he noted. Many students echoed his sentiments, emphasizing how the transition has brought them closer together, reinforcing their commitment to support one another in their journeys toward personal growth. The John Volken Academy operates as a men’s residential vocational school, requiring a two-year commitment aimed at fostering behavioral change through education and life skills training. Program director John Tervort explained that the curriculum is designed to transform students from their initial struggles to becoming responsible individuals. "When students first come here, they can’t even turn the lights on or off. Six months later, you’re giving them the keys to a truck and asking them to take care of the guys and come home safe," Tervort stated. He emphasized the observable transformations that occur, noting, "They grow, and they change. You can see the light in their eyes. You can see their smiles. You can see them do hard things and be proud of themselves." A unique aspect of the academy is its staff composition; many are former students who have successfully completed their own rehabilitation journeys. This shared experience fosters an environment of understanding and support. Jaynee Paulson, the academy’s president, expressed gratitude for being able to bring over both the staff and students from Red Barn to the new facility. "It’s about literally saving people’s lives. To me, it was like as many people as we can fit, the more people we can bring, the better," Paulson said. The continuity in staffing provides a sense of stability and reassurance for the students, who are navigating the complexities of rebuilding their lives. Remaining in Davis County has allowed the academy to maintain its connection with the local community, which has been crucial for the students’ recovery. Paulson noted the community's support as vital to the students' progress. "I think that watching the community kind of rally, it felt like they were seeing and speaking about the things I see every day. Just getting that type of recognition that these guys matter. They make a difference," she remarked, highlighting the importance of community involvement in the rehabilitation process. As students continue to organize their new classrooms and thrift store, the commitment to personal growth remains unwavering. The resilience shown by the students during this transitional period has been remarkable. "Just the way that this has come about has been nothing short of a miracle," Workman concluded, emphasizing the positive impact of the academy on their lives. While the past year has been filled with challenges, the stories of Ely Burns, Nate Workman, and their peers serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of those seeking to overcome adversity. With the support of the John Volken Academy and the surrounding community, these students are not just surviving but thriving, setting the stage for a brighter future ahead.