I've never gotten so much as a thank-you from the parents. But, it's understandable. To do that, they'd need to admit that they can't care for their kid without help. That's a pretty lousy feeling.
And I don't expect it from them. They are deeply ignorant people. It's beyond belief. The father is illiterate - he can barely make it through a Sunday comic strip. The mother made it through high school, but God only knows how. They put absolutely no value in education. It's a shame.
The ex-con really appreciates everything. He's in his 60's so he's calmed down from his wild days, and I trust him enough to let him use my garage and tools without supervision. I mentioned the work he's been doing to pay me back. But, furthermore, he used to be a welder. I have a CC welding certificate (among other degrees), and piecemeal, he's been giving me his old welding supplies as well as lessons and advice. He's the most appreciate of the bunch, by a long shot.
For the kid, I don't think it quite computes. For her, this is just normal. I hope 10 years down the line she realizes that I do this as a kindness, and not because it's just something that needs to be done. But she's worth the effort.
She has two older sisters. One was disowned. She's in her mid 20's, has three kids with two fathers. The most recent father is currently in jail for stealing stuff from a Walmart, but I haven't heard about her in years. The other sister is 23 and has a baby with her abusive 40 year-old boyfriend - I've met them a few times. HOLY SHIT.
But this kid is innocent. She's really sheltered. She's entirely honest: I could leave hundred dollar bills on the floor and she'd never touch it. I have a full wet bar, with a pool table, stools, neon signs, even a fireplace and probably 75 bottles of booze on the wall. She's never messed with any of that.
She needs a chance at life. I fear her fate is already sealed, but just maybe I can save her from a living hell. I've already worked out a deal with her so she can attend community college - she has to attend summer and winter, get B's or above, and I'll pay for it (or hopefully her folks will do some financial aid and I'll cover the difference). Then, during the spring semester, she can fly down and do whatever Florida BS they do down there. She was really excited about that deal. So, I'm getting through a little bit. But, she's still going to be hindered by her upbringing for the rest of her life, without a doubt. But, maybe I can save her from 20, pregnant and on welfare. If I do that, then I'm happy.