Judge Clouse believes Pierceton Woods helps students rediscover a sense of self-worth through participation in the Academy’s academic, athletic, and vocational programs.
There’s nothing more important to the staff at Pierceton Woods Academy than the well-being of the young men in our care.
For nearly 20 years, we’ve provided our students with education, rehabilitation, and counseling services, and equipping them with coping strategies so they can become productive and responsible adults. It’s incredibly difficult work, but it’s truly life changing—and not just for those in our care. Our work also has a broader impact of improving the communities these young men call home.
We’re incredibly proud that we have become a trusted partner to some of the most well-respected leaders of criminal justice throughout Indiana. One example is the Honorable Steven Clouse, Judge of the Noble Superior Court, Division 1. Judge Clouse was appointed by Governor Eric Holcomb in 2021 and has since overseen numerous juvenile delinquency cases, including those requiring residential placement. The next step is often a referral to Pierceton Woods.
“I always tell the kids,” Judge Clouse says, “this is not where you want to be. But this is also not forever. If you take advantage of this opportunity, you’re going to find yourself a better person when it all ends.”
Judge Clouse speaks highly of the dedication demonstrated by the Pierceton Woods staff, describing them as strong partners to both him and the juvenile probation department. He also notes their willingness to collaborate in facilitating family counseling sessions when needed. Most importantly, Judge Clouse believes Pierceton Woods helps students rediscover a sense of self-worth through participation in the Academy’s academic, athletic, and vocational programs.
“Most of these kids are going to return to this community—to grow up here, work here, and have families here,” he says. “So, if we can have an organization like Pierceton Woods that can teach them some skills and redirect them, that’s a very positive thing.”
The impact of PWA’s work is perhaps best understood through the eyes of former students like Michael Vanover. Michael is a Staff Sergeant in the United States Army, a husband, father of five—and a Pierceton Woods graduate.
When he came to PWA, his prospects were uncertain at best. Coming from an environment where he says he was “poorly guided, raised wrong, and never taught how to live,” Michael was in desperate need of support and direction—and that’s exactly what he found at Pierceton Woods.
“They truly care,” he explains. “They made me feel like I was one of their children. The ideals, views, and leadership skills they teach are all awesome things.”
Vanover’s story exemplifies what Pierceton Woods makes possible. By giving our students a sense of self-worth through academic, athletic, and vocational programs, we transform what’s possible for them and bring out their true potential.
Judge Clouse says this has a ripple effect for generations—if these young men are given a second chance somewhere like Pierceton Woods.
“The perception is that these are ‘bad kids,’ but they can do tremendously positive things that can have a lasting impact.”
