Youth leadership
Interview with NYEC Youth Advisory Council
NYEC’s Inaugural Youth Days in Washington, D.C. had an incredible turn out of young people from all over the country. The youth and young adults’ sessions were a huge success, with over 30 young advocates, leaders, and thought leaders in attendance. The second day of the conference afforded attendees the opportunity to meet with a…
Read MoreMeet Essence Gray: Overcoming Trauma and Tragedy to Build a Life of Strength and Service
Quick Take. Essence Gray overcame extraordinary hardships by focusing on her desire to serve her community. With the help of EmployIndy, she completed several training programs, found her footing, and now serves as a Life Coach at the IndyPeace Fellowship where she counsels and supports justice-involved Opportunity Youth. Early Years. From her earliest days, Essence…
Read MoreJaylene Hernandez: Pursuing Her Dream and Finding Her Passion
Quick Take. With few opportunities in her hometown, Jaylene Hernandez moved to Tucson, AZ with her entire family where she attended Pima Community College and worked part-time. She hoped to transfer to a four-year institution but soon realized that the cost was prohibitive. Not sure of her next steps, Jaylene visited the Youth Employment Center,…
Read MoreLiam Chavez: Finding Help, Community, and Promise for the Future
Liam Chavez: Finding Help, Community, and Promise for the Future Quick Take: Liam Chavez overcame physical and mental health challenges in childhood and adolescence by channeling his energies into academic success. Uncertain of a career path after college, he found the Unity Council, where he completed a WIOA-funded program that placed him on a path…
Read MoreHannah Johns: Finding Strength in Adversity and Charting a Path Forward
Quick Take. Hannah Johns overcame a difficult childhood in rural Nebraska to complete high school, enroll in community college, and, with the help of the state Department of Labor, land a full-time paid internship with Riverside Discovery Center, a park and zoo complex. Early Life. Hannah was raised in Garing, a small community in western…
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