Youth Program Develops Aspirations

posted 7/10/20 -- At 16, Jonathan Oyola has a clear goal: his own restaurant. Overcoming shyness is just one of the benefits he received from the LCCAA Youth Services Program that brings that dream closer.

“I learned a lot of communication skills,” Jonathan said. “I met lots of different people and made connections.”

Jonathan plans to return to the Youth Services Program as he completes his senior year at Lorain High School. After graduating, he hopes to attend the culinary program at Lorain County Community Action Agency – or head to New York.

In addition to food distributions and holiday events, Jonathan really enjoyed fixing bikes, he said. He was among the youth assisting with the Girls in Gear programs hosted at the Bike Shop.

Coordinator Bobby Taylor says the type of goal Jonathan has is exactly what he hopes for all the youth in the program.

“Our program does more than just provide work experience,” he said.

“We build their character. We allow them to show their worth to the community and we make connections and advocate for them. All of that allows them to fulfill the aspirations and dreams they have for the future.”