“Unbroken” Book Launch at McFadden Ranch

By Y. Denise Caldwell,   CFRC Northern District

Mentor pairs and members of the Book Club at McFadden Ranch recently had the opportunity to meet with Luke Zamperini, only son of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic runner and World War II veteran and hero.

The occasion was to launch the book study of Louis Zamperini’s life story, “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand.   “Unbroken” tells about his childhood in California, becoming an Olympic runner and his years as a World War II prisoner of war.

It’s also a book of redemption and faith, hope and forgiveness.

Luke, his wife Lisa and an associate, Drake Morton, visited McFadden on Saturday, June 30, where they showed a 34 minute documentary (The Great Zamperini) and Luke shared personal stories about growing up with his father.

He graciously answered several questions from the youth and mentors and expressed his thanks to TJJD for allowing him to be there and his belief in second chances.

“Our main reason for being there is to impact these kids and to spark hope and a desire to do something honorable with their lives. Louis was HUGE on always giving kids a second chance!! We are truly excited for this partnership with you. (y’all!)”, said his wife Lisa.

The Zamperini Foundation gave each youth and mentor a copy of the Young Adult version of the book “Unbroken” and they left a DVD of the movie “Unbroken” as well. They also gave several copies of the book to the McFadden Library and Book Club.

During mentoring visits, mentors will process the story with their youth, underscoring the messages of hope and forgiveness. Faith based mentors can incorporate the spiritual principles as well. The Book Club will be more in-depth as, Barbara Sutherland, the Lead, will use a study guide, and incorporate spelling and topical discussion into the curriculum.

After reading the book, they will watch the movie to further heighten the experience.

The movie ends with Louis leaving the prison camp but a new movie to be released this fall, completes the journey – highlighting the challenges he faced after returning home and how he found the faith to forgive and live a better life.

The Zamperini’s ate lunch with the youth and mentors, and they signed copies of their book for them too.

PHOTO: Zamperini speaks to youth at McFadden Ranch Halfway House.

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IN MEMORY AND APPRECIATION: Trayce Haynes Alexander

Trayce Haynes Alexander, of Cat Spring, Texas passed away in April. She was a JCO IV at the Giddings State School and began her employment with the Texas Youth Commission on January 5, 2009, as a JCO III. She was promoted to a JCO IV on April 1, 2010. Trayce was a hardworking, loyal and dedicated staff member and friend. Her number one priority was the youth in her dorm and she would drive one hour and forty minutes everyday (even in ill health) to try to make a difference in the lives of the youth she worked with. She was well respected by both staff and youth due to her extraordinary work ethic. The boys could always depend on her to hold them accountable. She is survived by her husband Geoff Alexander and two daughters, Kristyn and Robyn Alexander. Trayce was born on September 3, 1952. She earned a BS from Southwest Texas State University in Law Enforcement.

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