Pin It

The Misfits

Doyle Robinson has found his place -- in with the outcasts.

A A A Comments By Harrison Fletcher Thursday, Nov 28 2002

Doyle and his dad have reconciled. Pee Wee and Doyle's mom even renewed their vows in 1990, with Doyle performing the service. Things are still strained at times, but they've found a way to love each other.

In Denver, Doyle has found his niche among the agencies helping street kids. By offering emotional support and a living-room atmosphere at Sox Place, Doyle has tried to complement the health care, recreation activities, GED courses, job training, overnight shelters and temporary housing offered by Urban Peak, Stand Up for Kids, Dry Bones and The Spot, among others.

John Johnston

In from the cold: After years on the streets, Gutter Boy found a haven at Sox Place.

More About

Like this Story?

Sign up for the Weekly Newsletter: Our weekly feature stories, movie reviews, calendar picks and more - minus the newsprint and sent directly to your inbox.

"I think the kids really like him," says Matt Wallace, an outreach minister with Dry Bones. "He'll hug them and love them like the father they never knew. And that's something a lot of them are looking for."

The street kids have their own way of showing their appreciation. A while back, two junkies snatched Doyle's cell phone, intending to sell it for drugs. When another junkie saw it, he snatched the phone away and announced: "I'm not going to whip your ass this time, but I'm taking this back to Sox."

"They've got my back," Doyle chuckles. "They really do."

Dole is also keeping an eye on the proposed redesign of Skyline Park, which is back on track after an earlier deadlock between preservationists and redesign advocates. Last week, an advisory committee reviewed a proposal to keep some original features, including two of three fountains, but to add kiosks, footpaths and a lawn. A final recommendation is expected on December 18.

Whatever happens and wherever the street kids wind up, Doyle knows he'll find them.

After so many years of searching, Doyle is settled now. Content. He's found his calling, his place, among the gutter punks, runaways and misfits. On Thursday, he'll even host a Thanksgiving dinner. With the wayward youths of Denver, Doyle is home.