Hi suezbee.
I think your nephew (and neice) would be really glad to know that they have somewhere to go and other options. Even if they don't tell you so, or even if they don't realize it right away. Many of us think that our relatives don't care about us at all (because we never hear from them).
Just a word of advice if I may -- don't be harsh or negative toward Scientology with your nephew. Let him set the tone. If he feels like he is being interrogated or that you have a pre-conceived notion of "hating the Church" he'll just shut you out. For a lot of us, even when we leave Scientology with our lives in shambles, cannot bear to hear negative things said about them. It's just so ingrained into us not to even think bad thoughts about them. Plus it's very painful to face the truth that you've been lied to. I think you should go ahead and ask him quesitons and spend time with him, I'm
not trying to say not to. Just don't push him too hard or he'll feel attacked and run away.
Even if he isn't at the point where he wants out, that doesn't mean he won't want to go to college. There are kids who do, it's just a bit rare. In going to college he'll get life experience and learn things about the real world that he never would have. I think it's great that you are willing to help him with that.
If his mom and dad are in the Sea Org or on staff, he's probably feeling the fact that they are not there. Having you around to talk to or even just do "normal" things with (like shopping or golfing or whatever regular families do) and spending time with your kids too (and seeing you be "mom" to them) would probably be good for him.
Just my two cents.
Somebody has to speak for these people.... no more running. I aim to misbehave.... If you can't do something smart, do something right. (Serenity)