Hardships faced at home, from a young age, is what prompted Christian to move out in search of a better environment and a brighter future. Despite not having a plan, he was able to gain housing stability when he enrolled as a residential student on the Flint Job Corps campus. Within a month, he was part of the Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) program and gained the adult support he needed through his JMG Specialist and was excited about his future.
From the moment Christian entered the JMG program in 2019, he took full advantage of the opportunities presented to him and was able to explore career possibilities that would help him define his path forward. During Legislative Day he was able to meet with his State Representative to tell his story and discuss his experiences as a youth in Michigan. He went on talent tours, explored college programs, and prepared for employment by working on interview skills and learning how to create a resume. Over the course of a year, with continued support and participation in JMG activities, Christian was able to develop confidence, gain leadership skills, and explore his interests to narrow down his future aspirations in either political science or education.
Christian has a passion for helping others reach their goals and find happiness and meaning in their lives. He took steps to fulfill his passion and continue to gain valuable leadership skills by joining the Youth Solutions Youth Advisory Council (YAC). The YAC is a group of emerging leaders who dedicate their time, talents, networks, and resources to raise awareness and support for the purpose and mission of Youth Solutions. “JMG has helped me become who I am today. JMG has given me so many amazing opportunities such as being a panelist on a Coffee with a Purpose, participating in two Legislative days, and being able to speak at the Youth Solutions Summer Summit,” expressed Christian.
Along with being an active member of the YAC, Christian is the president of his JMG Leadership Association and has been given leadership responsibilities at the Flint Genesee Job Corps Center. Christian is currently attending Mott Community College and plans to transfer to the University of Michigan to study either political science or education. Whichever patch he decides to take, we are excited to watch him succeed and achieve a future beyond imagination.