The following are letters written to GWR Counselor Kris Kampf from the mothers of two of our recent Gray Wolf graduates.

Dear Kris,

I am not very good with words and expressing myself, but I need to let you know how much we have appreciated you during Justin's residency at Gray Wolf. We thank God for so much that is happening in Justin's life, but would also like to thank you for being a wonderful counselor. You have taken the small things seriously and helped tremendously with the big-ticket items. We can't thank you enough for taking such an active role in allowing Justin to enroll at Port Townsend High School. We know that Justin has a special bond with you and will encourage that relationship to grow for years and years. Who knows? Maybe he'll be working with you someday at the Ranch!

Thanks for the opportunity to say what I need to say. Justin is very fortunate to have been involved with Gray Wolf Ranch and their team of experienced, loving, and understanding staff. Again, we owe you many thanks.

(From Justin's mom)

Dear Kris,

Monte had his 18th birthday a couple of weeks ago. I went up for the day, at the end of which we were sitting in his car, talking about what had transpired in this last year, which pretty much took off right after his 17th birthday. It takes my breath away, I am so grateful for where he is today. Earlier in the day we were taking a short drive out to the river, and I asked him if he felt he had received the tools he needed for his recovery. He said, "Yes…at Gray Wolf."

Thank you so much for your patient, careful, and wise work with him (and with all of us!).

(From Monte's mom)

At Gray Wolf, we take pride in the qualified, dedicated individuals who fill our staff positions. We'd like to introduce you to one of them.

Karen Colton, the chef at Gray Wolf Ranch, grew up baking pies and cookies with her grandmother. After thirty years in the kitchen, she still has a passion for cooking wholesome, home style meals. A native of Washington, Karen has lived in the Port Townsend area for over 33 years. She has two children, Kristin, 29, and Michael, 18.

If you ask Karen what she likes most about Gray Wolf, she'll reply, "I love the boys! They're my extended family and life. Our young men come from all over the world and I love it when they come in to visit. I chuckled when one young man from New Jersey told me, “Your cooking is balmy!”"