by Thomas Russell

Created on: June 13, 2008   Last Updated: January 24, 2009

The word "Awesome" is so overused these days. People tend to throw it out only because they can't think of a better adjective to describe something.

When Seth Maust repeats that word (and he says it a great deal), there is an unequivocal passion in his voice. He really means it. Couple that with a smile that never seems to disappear from his face and you see a man whose passion for life rubs off on pretty much anybody he comes in contact with.

As one of the co-founders of the Five Star program with his brother, Justin, Seth works tirelessly in providing a positive outlet for at-risk children. There are so many children who are desperate for a chance to step outside of their lives filled with adversity. These kids are surrounded by volunteers who nurture them, who prod them to become more than they thought they could become.

Seth and Justin developed this program to go into the intermediate schools and teach children certain core values that build character. It's a challenge, to say the least, but their focus and the team's focus is very clear: Their singular intention is to uplift children's lives, to spread some positive reinforcement and to sprinkle genuine concern over every child they can reach who is seeking a warm embrace of love. Simply put, these children are shown that they are champions in every walk of life.

They have organized a team of coaches and volunteers who mirror the duo's enriching philosphy. They would be the first ones to admit that the strength of the program is not accomplished by their efforts alone. It requires the like-minded effort of every volunteer.

They invite these children to summer camp for three days. In the serene setting of a 230-acre ranch, they take the kids and put them in a different environment, far away from school. The challenge they present to the kids, however lies in the activities they offer. The usual amenities are available, such as fishing, horseback riding, swimming and crafts, but the true test of character is the 30-foot rope course they must negotiate. The goal is to allow the children to face their fears and conquer them.

It's a menacing sight to behold, to be sure, with two levels of rope, wood and steel cables to traverse over, but most of the kids seem to welcome the challenge. It's those kids who have that grave fear of falling, however, that proves the value of the entire Five Star Program.

It would be easy to allow a child to wilt in their fear, but the coaches will not accept any person to fail because

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