My 17 year old has Runaway

[Guest]

My 17 year old son, who has always had a passion for wanting to travel and live off the land, has left home to follow 'what he calls his passion'. He first left on Thursday, we went to the police, had helicopters and searches out for him. He was found by a school mate who had been out searching for him. He did not want to go with them to be returned home but did so once he learned that the police were searching for him. We have spent the last 2 days, talking and discussing his actions, his desire to leave again and had an agreement that when he turned 18 (in 3 months) we would fully support his choices, provide guidance, assist in researching or helping him in any way to keep him safe but allow him to follow a dream. Yesterday we had a great day together as a family, playing board games, talking about life, goals, dreams... There was no arguing, no fighting, no degrading or putting him down for his choices a few days ago. This morning we woke up and he was gone again.
We have again contacted authorities and filed the reports, the questions that I can't seem to get answers to right now are many. Should I contact child services for assistance? The schools are not open until Tuesday, I know that I need to go there, but what are they going to tell me to do. If he is found, I have been informed that there will be no charges against him, is this because it is legal for him to leave home at 17? I'm not getting firm answers to any of these questions. I'm being told to 'not worry'.. as if that is an option.

[ccsmod9]

Hi there,
Thank you for writing to us here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We understand it takes great courage to reach out, and we appreciate you sharing a little bit about what’s going on. We want you to know that we are here as support to help you through this challenging time. We can best help by phone or chat as NRS believes we can handle he information necessary better by phone or chat.
Our contact information is 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929); www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button).
If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately.
We hope to hear from you soon.
Be safe, NRS