Meet Our December Specialist of the Month: Benjamin Leverette

This month, we’re proud to recognize Benjamin Leverette, a dedicated Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) specialist from West Michigan Works! Allegan County Service Center. Benjamin has been with JMG for a year and a half in his current role, bringing experience, compassion, and a genuine passion for helping youth explore their career paths and reach their fullest potential.

Benjamin has spent nearly 10 years working in workforce and job development, building a strong foundation in helping individuals overcome barriers and achieve employment success. He began in 2016 as a JMG specialist at Phoenix High School through Michigan Works! Southwest, later moving to Goodwill Industries, where he managed caseloads and supported youth through a variety of employment services. He also spent two years in housing development and homeless alleviation as the Continuum of Care Director for the Local Initiatives Support Corporation in Kalamazoo County, before realizing his true passion lay in workforce development.

Benjamin was drawn back to JMG by his commitment to helping youth explore a full spectrum of postsecondary options. “College is a great path for many youth, but others may be better served by different opportunities — and that’s okay,” he explained. Drawing on his own experiences navigating career and education choices, Benjamin strives to show students the many opportunities available to them and help them make informed decisions about their futures.

One of Benjamin’s favorite memories as a specialist involves a young woman who had struggled to pass her GED for a full year. With dedication, tutoring, and encouragement, she passed her first test in early December. “She came in like a hurricane this year,” Benjamin said. “Seeing her excitement when she passed—it was great to know she was motivated and ready to tackle the rest of her tests.”

Benjamin sees one of the biggest challenges facing youth today as access to reliable transportation and essential resources. Through JMG, Benjamin works closely with youth to identify solutions, provide guidance, and connect them with the support they need to stay on track, build confidence, and achieve their goals.

One of the greatest joys of Benjamin’s work is the human connection. “I get text messages all day from youth needing help or guidance—that’s the highlight,” he explained. “Being able to solve problems for them or guide them through challenges is what really matters to me.”

Outside of work, Benjamin enjoys reading, particularly classical fiction, biographies, and historical works. He’s also passionate about cooking and baking, especially dishes with sauces—like Italian cuisine or a well-prepared steak with wine reduction. At home, he’s a dedicated father to his two children, Lillian (18) and Maximus (14), and loves spending time with them whenever possible.

Congratulations, Benjamin, on being named our December 2025 Specialist of the Month! Thank you for your compassion, dedication, and the positive impact you’re making in the lives of Michigan’s youth every day.

Nominations are open to ALL, including our employer partners! If you know a phenomenal specialist, we encourage you to [nominate them here] for our January Specialist of the Month.