“Join the Corps! It will change the way you see the world.”

That’s the best advice Corpsmember Anthony can give to young adults out there looking for their next step. After almost two years at the Corps, not only has Anthony’s view of the world changed, but he has also changed how he views himself.

Anthony, 20, joined the Corps at the suggestion of his brother who was also a Corpsmember. But he had all his family on his mind when he signed up. “I wanted to help my parents. My stepdad was the only one working in our household and I felt it was my responsibility.”

And while the wages he has earned in the program have been a huge help, the technical and life skills have meant just as much. He has worked on a variety of projects and is now tackling an administrative job at one of our sites.

“The Corps helped me take off my shyness,” he shares as he thinks about what comes after the Corps. “Who wouldn’t like someone who is confident.” Anthony has been practicing his networking skills as he gets ready to go back to school.

Last summer, Anthony and several other members of his household contracted COVID-19. It was a particularly stressful time as he struggled to keep it away from his younger sister who is immunocompromised. Anthony recovered and his sister stayed healthy, and the experience has strengthened his positive attitude and pursuit of his goals. This winter, he learned that two of his aunts had passed away, but his grief is tempered by his determination.

“Always have a goal. It’s going to drive you every day to go to work.”