Bethseda Home for Boys

Letter from the President

Greetings from Bethesda:

During Bethesda's storied history as the nation's oldest continually operating charity for children and youth, our mission has never wavered. We believe that children grow and thrive when they are introduced to the founding values first articulated by Reverend George Whitefield, Bethesda's founder, in 1740. A love for God, a love for Learning, and a Strong Work Ethic are principles and values that are as valid today as they were when they were first penned by Bethesda's founder. And yet, the world of a child today is quite different than the time when Savannah and Georgia were struggling with all the challenges of a burgeoning colony and a new nation.

Given the longevity of our mission to youth, Bethesda has been a buttress and safe haven against a myriad of the transformative changes that have enveloped the world of children and youth. Today the Bethesda School and our Home for Boys offers students a life transforming experience that becomes a springboard to a bright future against the doubt, confusion, and sometimes helpless and hopeless conditions that captures too many boys in our society.    

At Bethesda boys are introduced to a boy friendly culture. Academic instruction in a small classroom setting, with ample opportunities to learn outside the classroom fits the development needs of many of our boys. Athletics, team work and school pride are evidenced throughout Bethesda's spirited competitions both on the intramural level and interscholastic level. Opportunities to gain potentially employable life skills are fostered through the enterprise programs where boys gain experience in the video production studio, computer lab, culinary arts, landscaping or maintenance environments. And boys experience their value and worth in moments of reflection during weekly chapel and convocation offerings. Bethesda is an environment that works for boys on multiple levels and it is through this holistic environment that Bethesda can create "a gateway to a bright future."

As we continue to build a culture with opportunities for boys that address their unique challenges today, you can participate in the Bethesda experience by considering a referral to our residential school environment, making a donation, or providing some measure of support that will provide the margin of excellence that these young boys both need and aspire to. As a private institution Bethesda seeks to support those boys that will most benefit from the life-changing experience that Bethesda offers, and we trust this publication will provide a glimpse into the Bethesda experience.

Best wishes,


T. David Tribble, D.Min.
President