Oklahoma Man Uses Rodeo To Help Round Up At-Risk Kids

A man is inspiring kids to get in the saddle, from the seat of his wheelchair. He was paralyzed in a horse-riding accident, but he's encouraging teens in trouble to replace gangs and drugs with rodeo.

The director of The Tulsa Outlaws, Charles Owens, said his mission isn't just to win rodeos, he's trying to teach young men responsibility, and in the meantime, he said he is saving lives.

"I know if I got them here Tuesday and Thursday's nights I don't have to worry about these kids because they are with me. Saturday we are rodeoing, we are always together, we are like one big family,” said Owens.

8/14/2014 Related Story: Oklahoma Man Paralyzed In Rodeo Accident Meets PBR World Champion

He said feeling like they have family prevents dozens of Tulsa's teens from turning to crime, gangs and drugs.

Hours before a recent practice Tulsa Police arrested a 16-year-old in connection to a deadly shooting just a few blocks away.

Owens said the risks of bull riding and horse rodeos pale in comparison to the trouble on Turley's and Tulsa's streets.

It's a bold statement, considering Owens was hurt badly and paralyzed while riding in 2009; but he still encourages his young men to take the skills they learn - patience, practice and persistence - then apply them to life.

"I always encourage them to stay in school because if you stay in school it can lead to bigger things,” he said.

He mentors tots, teens and college grads.

The nonprofit organization runs on donations, so kids don't have to pay, but they must meet two requirements which have nothing to do with skill or age.

"To keep good grades in school and not get in any trouble,” said student Darius James.

If you would like to see the regional competition, the rodeo is Saturday at 6 p.m.

If you want more information on how you can donate or get your young one involved you can call 918-346-8978.