Meet Dion Jones, Exemplary Youth of the Year from Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! Saginaw Service Center

Dion Jones moved to Saginaw from Maryland after high school, hoping for a fresh start. Without a support system in place, he found himself living in a homeless shelter. But things began to shift when he was referred to Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) at the Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! Saginaw & Bay County Service Center.

With guidance from his JMG specialist, Maria Torrez, Dion quickly began building a new foundation. He secured his first job at JCPenney, received professional clothing and bus passes, and took an active role in planning for his future. His energy, positivity, and resilience stood out immediately. In just three months, he enrolled at Delta College to pursue an associate degree in dental hygiene and moved into his own apartment.

Now working at Volunteers of America while still employed at JCPenney, Dion is on track to graduate in 2026 and continues to explore long-term career paths, including a possible future in the electrical field. His story is a powerful example of how access to mentorship and opportunity can transform lives and help youth move forward with confidence and purpose.

Congratulations, Dion, on being recognized as an Exemplary Youth of the Year at the 2025 Career Development Conference! We are proud of all you’ve accomplished and excited for the bright future ahead!