We’re thrilled to be able to share the story of Kenvin Lacayo, who took his future into his own hands and seized an opportunity to transform his life.

Kenvin was unsure of his options after high school. Fortunately, he was introduced to a service year at The Literacy Lab’s Leading Men Fellowship, an experience that shaped his future. His service year allowed him to help others and make an impact in his community — all while paving a pathway to higher education.

We’re thrilled to be able to share the story of Xavier Jennings, who took his future into his own hands and seized an opportunity to transform his life.

Xavier had faced an uncertain future, going to six different high schools before he dropped out. Fortunately, he was introduced to a service year at Mile High Youth Corps’ YouthBuild, an experience that shaped his future. His service year allowed him to help others and make an impact in his community — all while paving a pathway to higher education.

“Doing a service year with Teach for America changed my trajectory and got me involved in education, which I will be involved in for the rest of my life.”

“I was involved in an altercation that led me to be put in juvenile hall. When I got out, I told myself I needed to make a change...My service year with Youth Conservation Corps became the vehicle to transform my life."

“What I learned in that [service year]...is that you are an incredible ripple in this big pool that is the world around you. And all you have to do is show up.”