For Gavin, participating in the CCMEP Summer Youth Program in Crawford County meant more than gaining work experience — it gave him an opportunity to build confidence, develop new skills and reach an important personal goal.
Before joining the program, Gavin found it challenging to balance work, school, volunteering and staying active in his community. Through the program, he worked as a custodian at Bucyrus Elementary School, where some of his favorite experiences came from simply getting to know the school staff and lending a hand when someone needed help.
“Doing simple things like helping a teacher move a heavy shelf makes for great connections,” Gavin shared.
While working, Gavin learned how to budget and save his earnings — eventually saving enough for his first car!
He also gained something that will stay with him long after the program: confidence in the workplace.
“I’ve been more confident in my workplace experience. The soft skills I have learned will help me in many future jobs.”
One of Gavin’s biggest takeaways was the importance of asking questions and communicating when you’re unsure — a lesson he knows will be especially valuable in workplaces involving equipment or working closely with others.
Today, Gavin says his experience has given him confidence that he can succeed in the workforce and later in life.
And he summed up his experience with a pretty great piece of advice:
“The more doors you open, the more doors you find behind them.”
Congratulations, Gavin! We can’t wait to see which doors you open next.