Success Awards | Jeremiah
Program: Eckerd Connects | Residential Academy of Candor
Age: 14
Achievements: Academic Success, Behavioral Management Achievements, Positive Life Transformation
“I want a YMCA membership to give me a safe place to play basketball and stay away from trouble. I will have something to do beside be in the streets… It would really mean a lot to be able to have my own new pants that actually fit me, instead of old dirty ones.”
When Jeremiah entered the Eckerd Connects Program, he was failing in school and his family was struggling with homelessness. He had been placed in an alternative school based on poor behavior. When he joined the Eckerd Connects program, Jeremiah’s personality and intelligence began to shine. Jeremiah was able to bring his grades to an A/B Honor Roll level and he dedicated more than 32 hours to community service. He also participated in an off-campus trip to work with individuals with disabilities and received praise for his active engagement. To really shine, Jeremiah asked Eckerd Connects for a YMCA membership with a bicycle to get him to a place where he can safely play basketball. The Eckerd Connects Success Award provided this, along with the new clothes he so desired.
“I will never forget about this, again thanks a lot…You have really blessed me and my family…. You could have picked anyone else, but you chose me. Thanks a lot.”
Additional Stats:
- Jeremiah comes from a single mom with four children who works part-time to try to provide for them.
- They recently moved into a home after three months of homelessness.
- Getting a bicycle and new clothes give Jeremiah invaluable tools to help with his overall well-being and self confidence.