TEXT
Welcome to Youth Direct Ministries
Heaven in a Wildflower Receives International Recognition
In New York City in July 2015, Don received an International exness mt5 Photo Award for portraits in his book Heaven in a Wildflower.
There were 5,117 entries from 62 countries. Don won 2nd Place Award. Two of his photos will be displayed in the Heritage Museum<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Heritage Museum</span>
</span> in Malaga, Spain September - November 2015.
Don said: "I am humbled and grateful for this honor. I thank God because all gifts come from Him"
Heaven in a Wildflower
Heaven in a Wildflower
. This epic work is an amazing collection of color photos, scripture and text. What makes this book different metatrader 5 exness
This deluxe hardback coffee table book is a value at just $29.95 and all proceeds go to ministry to troubled youth. This book makes a great gift, also.
Examine the book for yourself to realize the beauty and depth of a book you will long treasure.
Don's Book Recognized
The text, design and photos in Don's book Italia was recognized with a special award.
McFadden Ranch-December 7th
Join us Saturday at this state facility, as we minister to 50 boys there. This is our last event of the year https://www.e-trading.in.th/exness-metatrader-5. The open setting always makes this a good experience for volunteers. If you intend to participate you must email Don no later than December 3rd at
Father & Son Bonding Book
Don's 12th book, Italia ; A Father & Son Journey, has just been released. The trip is a metaphor for father and son bonding. Many readers have been moved by the story. With over 200 full color photos, this "coffee table" book is a $60 value priced at $22. Order today and receive a free CD of an 80 minute interview with the author. Order the book by contacting Don at
Here is what people are saying:
" Italia: A Father and Son Journey<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Son Journey</span>
</span>by Don Smarto<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Don Smarto</span>
</span> is a one of a kind book. The story line follows a father in his sixties and a son in his thirties who take a trip to Italy.
Don was able to pass blessings onto his son. Don demonstrates for every father that you can touch the heart of your son at any age.
This book has something for everyone. A great story line for the reader. Detailed history for those enjoy the past. Pictures for kids and adults alike to marvel at. Italian recipes for the aspiring cook.
Dr. Heath Marion<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Heath Marion</span>
</span>, Pastor
"I have several books of photos depicting the glories of Italy, but none comes close to measuring up to yours. You did a magnificent job !
Kingdom and the gospel."- Dr. Tony Campolo<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Tony Campolo</span>
</span>, Author & Sociologist
" Italia, A Father & Son Journey"has something for everyone. At first look it, it appears to appeal to fathers and sons of all ages which it certainly does well. However you can imagine my surprise when my wife grabbed it out of my hands and said, "Me First !"She was drawn to the beautiful photographs of architecture that reminded her of her journey through Italy in her younger years. She was also captivated by "Mama's Recipes" that provided her with her next culinary challenge that will transition her from the science of cooking to the art. That was enough for her to begin reading the account of Don's and Luke's journey through the old country.
After I got my chance to read, it was clear from the beginning that this was not just a journey through the streets of Italy, it was a father's journey through the heart of his son. As Don shares the history of his ancestors, you feel as though you are there with he and Luke as they explore both the famous and the obscure places of ancient Italy. This includes churches, paintings, sculptures and the tender father and son exchange that go with it. The breathtaking photographs are spellbinding with such color radiance and clarity that one becomes entranced.
As I paged through Don's book, I heard the whispers of Malachi's last words in the Old Testament, "And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children..."(Malachi 4:6a) and I know Don heard it too. "- Dominic Herbst<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Dominic Herbst</span>
</span>, Clinical Psychologist
" Italiawarmed my heart. What a beautiful book. It is a legacy to families. I love this book !"- Raeanne Hance, Prison Fellowship State Director
"I was truly touched by this book. I have never seen anything quite like it; a father-son travelogue and memoir celebrating God's gift of life !"- Dr. Phil Ryken<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Phil Ryken</span>
</span>, President, Wheaton College<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Wheaton College</span>
</span>
"What a beautiful book ! Your book about father and son bonding makes the point as well as any I've seen. You pulled out all the stops to produce and incredible piece of work. It is emotional and powerful."- Paul Heidebrecht<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Paul Heidebrecht</span>
</span>, Christian Leader and Author
Italia: A Father and Son Journey<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Son Journey</span>
</span>.
Don expertly weaves stories of historical interest, references to films, and applications of theological concepts as the reader follows in the footsteps of this 15-day Italian adventure with his son, Luke. Part reminiscence of his childhood as the son and grandson of Italian immigrants, part self-exploration of his relationship with Luke, and part travel guide, cookbook, and photographic record, Don draws the reader in with his masterful prose and mouth-watering descriptions of Italian food that will have you planning a trip to Italy on your own.
Sarah Crouch<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Sarah Crouch</span>
</span>, Author and Professor
Also available, a CD of the author interviewed about the book. It is 80 minutes and only $3.
Herbst Seminars Bring Real Recovery
Nationally know therapist, Dominic Herbst<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Dominic Herbst</span>
</span>, has been a frequent and popular guest on the ministry radio program Parenting Today's Youth. Visit his web site for opportunities in your city and to join seminars by phone and video conference. Dominic says "the root of all psychological and emotional problems are spiritual". That is why secular programs and "pop" psychology fail. If you have or know of anyone with relationship problems, these seminars are essential. Visit restoringrelationships.org or sign up for their proven materials and at home sessions via webcast. Youth Direct endorses this excellent source of true Christian counseling. Here are services the Bethesda<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Bethesda</span>
</span> team offers:
Personal Interactive Webcast
We offer personal webcasts to take you and/or your family through The Four Steps To Emotional Healing. You will not have to leave your home for this personal and individualized healing journey. Call us today at 570-523-0605 to find out how we can lead you to victory and restoration.
Private In-Home Family<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Private In-Home Family</span>
</span> Restoration
There is no better place to heal relational conflict and restore precious family relationships than in the privacy of your own home. It is completely private, deeply personal and totally confidential. Call 570-523-0605.
You owe it to yourself, your spouse, and children to seek true healing of the emotional baggage we carry. "I wish every juvenile facility in America used these effective materials. Crime would drop. Families would be healed and we could begin closing juvenile prisons !", says Youth Direct President, Don Smarto<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Don Smarto</span>
</span>.
Collin Creek Counseling<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Collin Creek Counseling</span>
</span> Services
Thomas L. Sessums<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Thomas L. Sessums</span>
</span>, PhD
Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor
Youth Direct receives many requests for counseling. For those in the Dallas area we recommend the Clinical Counseling Center<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Clinical Counseling Center</span>
</span> located at the Collin Creek Church<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Collin Creek Church</span>
</span> in Plano. Call for an appointment at 214 215 2867 or check www.collincreek.org
Following are some of the issues they have expertise with:
PARENTING TODAY'S YOUTH - NOW "ON DEMAND"
After seven years, the popular and well received radio program Parenting Today's Youth is available ON DEMAND. Just go to WBAP.com and enter the keyword: family.
At no charge, you can download programs into your IPhone, IPod, or computer.
Each week, five programs will be offered. With the continued sponsorship of Five Star Ford, new dynamic guests, including teachers, authors, pychologists, and other experts will give valuable information to parents grandparents, and caregivers.
This is an important program for the whole family.
Visit WBAP.com and enter keyword: family Listen ON DEMAND
EXCITING NEW BOOK
We are pleased to announce the new streamlined edition of the powerful book Mended by God with a new ending written by Tony Pack<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Tony Pack</span>
</span>. Sales benefit our outreach to youth.
See the video below and visit resources to obtain a copy.
After 16 years, the new Director's Cut of A Pale Horse is being released on DVD along with the dynamic soundtrack.
Acclaimed for its use of atmospheric low key lighting, the film won over 9 awards at film festivals nationwide.
With a riveting and chilling performance by Jeannette Clift George<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Jeannette Clift George</span>
</span> (The Hiding Place) this PG-13 rated film is based on a true story.
Click RESOURCES to order your copy.
NEW BOOK - Heart of the Young Gladiator
After two years of writing, Don Smarto<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Don Smarto</span>
</span> has completed his tenth book.
Heart of the Young Gladiator is an essay about the incarcerated youth Don taught Creative Writing to. He chose the best poetry and prose from the youth. Clearly, these young people have talent that in many cases the school system did not discover or encourage or "labels" defeated their spirit.
The reader will enjoy this varied collection of humor, insight, loneliness, and faith. You will discover, as Don did, the creativity and potential of these young men.
This promises to be one of the most powerful and exciting books released about the hope for change in delinquents. (click Resources to order your copy)
Consider giving a CD on PARENTING, GRIEF, HEALING EMOTIONAL WOUNDS, MARRIAGE, ABUSE, EVANGELISM, and many more topics to a friend or family member going through tough times.
Don Wins International<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Don Wins International</span>
</span> Award
Don was one of 34 photographers awarded from over 1,024 entries from 45 countries for the photographs in his book Heart of the Young Gladiator.
The award was announced in York, England , February 1, 2011.
His photos will appear in the book Storyteller by WonderPick Publishing.
The award honors talented photographers from around the world.
(see press release)
Gladiator Book Wins Angel Award<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Angel Award</span>
</span>
Angel Award<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Angel Award</span>
</span> for his new book Heart of the Young Gladiator. The award given by the Excellence in Media Foundation<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Media Foundation</span>
</span> was for a work of "Great social and moral impact".
Previous winners have been Tom Hanks<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Tom Hanks</span>
</span>, Bill Cosby<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Bill Cosby</span>
</span>, Steve Martin<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Steve Martin</span>
</span>, Art Linkletter, Randy Travis<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Randy Travis</span>
</span>, George Burns<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">George Burns</span>
</span>, Pat Boone<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Pat Boone</span>
</span> and Roy Rogers<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Roy Rogers</span>
</span>.
Don has tied Billy Graham<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Billy Graham</span>
</span> (Worldwide Pictures) for the most awards given to one person.
Click here to read the entire press release from the Excellence in Media<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Media</span>
</span> organization.
Tony Campolo Praises<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Tony Campolo Praises</span>
</span> New Book
On September 22 , 2010, author and international Speaker Tony Campolo<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Tony Campolo</span>
</span> said "Heart of the Young Gladiator looks brilliant. The photographs of the young men were incredibly moving. I hope this book sells well. It could do a lot of good for the Kingdom if it gets out there where people can get hold of it."
Josh McDowell Recommends<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Josh McDowell Recommends</span>
</span> New Book
On October 7th, acclaimed author and international speaker endorsed Don's new book. "Heart of the Young Gladiator is a great resource ! I enjoyed the book. Thank you so much for sharing this book.
FREE BEHIND BARS
By Don Smarto<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Don Smarto</span>
</span>
Are some prisoners authentic Christians? Are some inmates freer than some church people?
At first glance, these questions seem simplistic. Those in Prison Ministry<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Prison Ministry</span>
</span> know many offenders are authentic Christians.
In a later passage, Jesus relates the freedom he is talking about to truth. We tend to think in black and white; either we are captive or have freedom. But Jesus was not talking about mobility. Paul was free although in prison. John was free although in exile.
Youth Direct Featured in Newspaper<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Newspaper</span>
</span>
Don and his work with troubled youth was a feature story in the October 10th edition of the Dallas Morning News.
The story was on the front page of the Sunday edition, written by reporter Jon Neilson<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Jon Neilson</span>
</span> who visited with Don several times at the Youth Direct headquarters in Duncanville and accompanied him when he spoke to incarcerated youth and when he conducted a Writing Seminar in a Texas Youth Commission facility. The story referenced Don's new book Heart of the Young Gladiator . The story also related how Don overcame his own family crimes to go to college and inspire other young boys to reach their potential.
Midwest Review of New Book
Richard Blake<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Richard Blake</span>
</span>'s review of Heart of the Young Gladiator was published in the Midwest Book Review.
Mr. Blake wrote: "Don Smarto<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Don Smarto</span>
</span> takes the reader behind the scenes of juvenile correctional facilities and into the minds and hearts of incarcerated gang members.The book includes 55 poems and 40 photos of prisoners. The poems are authentic, simple, original, and imaginative marked by a fierce individuality that resonate the inner being of the soul. The still photos are captivating."
The Genuine Change Agent
By Don Smarto<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Don Smarto</span>
</span>
For many years I have been perplexed by people's criticism of the criminal justice system in one specific area. It takes the form of this basic question: Why doesn't the system change criminals? Implied is a change for the better, meaning transformation into a stable citizen and law abiding person. The disapproval is aimed at Prisons, Probation, and Parole in particular.
If we define criminal behavior as sin, the work of regeneration never has been and never will be the work of any secular government agency but of the Holy Spirit, and it is the role of the Church<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Church</span>
</span> to restore a sinner through Salvation, confession, repentance, prayer, discipleship, and accountability, which is to say as an instrument of God's grace.
In Youth Ministry<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Youth Ministry</span>
</span>, Having a Good Heart is Not Enough
In three decades of working professionally with delinquent youth, I have seen many well intentioned people fail. There is often "God talk" and emotion but working with minors requires a higher vigilance and degree of professionalism. One incident of physical abuse, sexual misconduct, or neglect is enough to shatter a ministry permanently, not to mention criminal charges and a civil law suit. Many "wilderness" programs have" hit the Press" in the past ten years. The papers are in the business of selling papers and will rarely back off from an opportunity to expose a ministry has been irresponsible.
The "Best of" Parenting Today's Youth Now Available
The radio ministry of Youth Direct has produced 1000 programs. Many wonderful guests have been interviewed. Now, some of the best programs are available on CD at very reasonable prices. From interviews with Josh McDowall<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Josh McDowall</span>
</span> talking about why youth are not accepting basic church doctrine, to Dr. Jim Denison<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Jim Denison</span>
</span> discussing the real threats from radical Islam, and Judge Grace Lewis<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Grace Lewis</span>
</span> reflecting on the origins of crime, plus many more guests and subjects, these CDs will be a significant addition to your library. Redeem your commute time in traffic, listen from your PC or I Pod on a plane trip, or play at home for spiritual growth and information. The interviews are lively and engaging and filled with useful facts. Whether you are a student, pastor, or parent, there is something for everyone in these recordings. Each CD is only $5.00 (plus shipping & handling)
Visit the RESOURCES page to purchase several, today. You can safely use your credit card using PayPal.
Is The Door Closing?
By Don Smarto<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Don Smarto</span>
</span>
For many years, I heard prison ministry leaders talk at conferences about the "open door in prison ministry". That was back in the 1980's. They were right. The open door was an unprecedented accessibility of faith based programs into the prisons, jails, and juvenile facilities of America.
There were several reasons. Many wardens and superintendents were Christians and bold about their faith. As an example, Norm Carlson<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Norm Carlson</span>
</span> the Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons would welcome Charles Colson<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Charles Colson</span>
</span> and ex-offenders into his Washington, DC<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">DC</span>
</span> office with discussions about the role of faith in regeneration. Chaplains were often strong evangelicals like Harry Howard<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Harry Howard</span>
</span> of San Quentin, Manny Craig<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Manny Craig</span>
</span> of Leavenworth, Al Worthly of Springfield, and Emmett Solomon<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">Emmett Solomon</span>
</span> of the Texas Department of<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Texas Department of</span>
</span> Corrections.
Don has created a new seminar Planning Adult & Juvenile Reentry. This dynamic Powerpoint incorporates the latest research and Don's personal travels to view over 200 aftercare programs in 25 states.
He presents model programs in Pennsylvania, Georgia, Florida, Arizona, California, Missouri, North Carolina, and Texas. The seminar presents ideas on ex-offenders keeping jobs, accountability, learning styles, and experiencing community.
Elaborating on the ideas in his books: Keeping Ex-Offenders Free, Faith-Based Mentoring, and Lost & Found, Don gives practical examples of why some juvenile and adult ex-offenders succeed and why others fail.
This is an important presentation for correctional professionals, prison ministries, and churches that mentor and work with ex-offenders.
Don presented this seminar at the Texas Corrections Association<span itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Organization">
<span itemprop="name">Texas Corrections Association</span>
</span> Annual Conference in Galveston in June.