Rawhide Boys Ranch founder John Gillespie recently presented Speaker of the House Paul Ryan and Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Gallagher copies of his newly released book at an event held at Lambeau Field.
In a show of support, Gallagher will present a copy of “Our 351 Sons” to all 435 members of the U.S. House of Representatives this fall.
Republican Sen. Ron Johnson will also present copies of the book to all 100 members of the U.S. Senate.
“We never thought Rawhide would grow to what it is today. We just knew we could help young men whose lives were headed in the wrong direction,” Gillespie said in a statement. “I’m truly honored to have our state and national leaders sharing the story of Rawhide with other members of congress. The support we’ve received from individuals and organizations throughout the state and nation has played a huge role in the success of both the book and the ranch.”
“Our 351 Sons” shares the blessings and challenges the Gillespies faced while pursuing their goal of improving the lives of youth. During their first 35 years running Rawhide, John and his wife, Jan, personally foster parented 351 troubled young men, 10 at a time for about a year each living in their home, hence the name of the book.
The book is expected to bring awareness to the behavioral and mental health programs and services that Rawhide provides young boys, girls and families.
“The principles that Rawhide was founded on are very much still in practice today and are at the core of everything we do,” Alan Loux, president and CEO of Rawhide, said. “Our principles of compassion, trust, respect, faith and service are at the core of helping transform the lives of at-risk youth. It’s what we live by at Rawhide, but they are principles that anyone, anywhere, can adapt in their own lives.”
“Our 351 Sons” is available for sale on Amazon, on the book’s website and through direct sales.
The book will also be sold at Gillespie’s presentation in Iola Monday, Sept. 24 at 7 p.m. and at Rawhide’s next fish fry on Friday, Oct. 19.