Eckerd Connects grad joins the Navy, says it’s “an honor to serve”

John Matthews always knew he wanted a different path for himself than the one he saw playing out in his Delaware neighborhood.

“A lot of guys end up selling drugs or working odd jobs,” explained John.”I don’t want that for my life.”

In 2017 , when he enrolled in the Eckerd Connects Delaware County in school youth program, John took the first of many steps in the right direction.

“I figured if this program can help me and provide me with more options,” recalled John,”then it’s worth a try.”

Seeing his mother work hard to provide a better life for him and his siblings has been his motivation to one day provide for her.

Through Eckerd Connects, John was introduced to the many benefits of joining the military. Now John has a career with the United States Navy and a future he’s excited about.

“I’m going to get to see the world man,” he said. “Plus, it’s an honor to serve”.