RTI International

“At Navy Federal, we’re not just hiring talent—we’re investing in potential,” Holly shared. “Jaziah is a shining example of what happens when young people are given the tools to grow—both in their careers and in how they manage their lives and finances.”

“To see Jaziah walk through the same doors where I’ve worked for years, not as my son—but as a professional in his own right—is an incredible feeling,” said Marquita. “He’s grown so much in confidence and direction, and I truly believe Job Corps and Eckerd Connects helped unlock that in him. I couldn’t be more proud.”

“Before Eckerd Connects, I felt lost and stuck, and didn’t know what to do. My amazing Career Coach, Ella, was great about really listening and genuinely caring about my goals—she provided reliable help and support. It felt good to get a sense of direction from the program. I’m extremely grateful.”

“I think the enthusiasm of the youths and their coaches has been very unique, it allows us to help groom them for our company or even a further career elsewhere. The education that they are receiving I can see has them prepared for the tasks of a trade workplace.”

““I hope that my success story affects the lives of the future Forward March participants.  You all have played a part in my success and can’t begin to thank you enough.””

““With the help of my instructors and new family I can say that I can and will always know how to save and manage my money successfully. The life skills I learned in Forward March taught me how to prioritize areas in my daily life. Forward March is more than just about jobs. Though managing my money is great, I realize the importance of keeping my job.””

““I am eager to learn and have the drive to do more. I realize the importance to focus not only on myself, but others as well. My employer, staff and customers are important to me. I have found that Forward March not only helped me to be more myself, but it helped me to become a better employee.””

““I had a one track mind to get in, get out, and get a job, but discovered that it was so much more. I didn’t just create friendships with my classmates, but we became a family filled with support and care for one another. It was definitely more than just about getting a job.  It helped me to get through a lot with the support and encouragement in the classroom.  It allowed me to open-up, connect, problem-solve, and heal emotionally.””

““I diligently and desperately searched for employment to no avail.  No one gave me the chance to show what I was made of and it seemed nearly impossible to find a job.””

““Forward March not only helped me to be more myself, it helped me to be a better employee.””

““I’ve always loved animals, especially dogs,” Disean said. “The program team made sure I was comfortable in a job I love. I really enjoy working with the people and the dogs. I hope to stay here a long time.””

““The WIOA program has been a huge blessing during my nursing journey,” Hailey said. “Not having to worry about expenses has been a breath of fresh air. I’ll recommend this program to anyone. Thank you for the constant support!””

““The workers helped me overcome my shyness,” Ormani shared. “I used to get terrible anxiety speaking in front of a crowd, but having to present to the board helped me come out of my shell. The biggest benefit of the program was realizing my strengths and learning how to be the best version of myself.””

“I had no welding experience before coming to Job Corps. Now, I’ve received an offer from Huntington Ingalls and am ready to start an exciting new chapter in my career,”

“Thank you to everyone in the Eckerd Connects program for the way you helped me SHINE!”

“Eckerd Connects has really great tutors and they have night classes which allows me to work during the day and attend classes at night. Most importantly they made me feel like I could do it.”

“Mr. Johnson shook my hand and said, Hard work, Sacrifice, Commitment, Success. If you are not willing to put in the hard work, make the sacrifice to commit, then don’t expect success.”

““The staff helps you to stay on top of your school work,” he said.”

“He says the Eckerd Kids program helps build teamwork and discipline and helps youth create a more healthy living environment at home.”

““I’ve struggled so much, but when I found you all, I said, ‘Thank you, Jesus. This is what I needed.’ Eckerd Connects helped me get back on my feet—and now I’m climbing.””

“Collin reports that he is most grateful to have been placed with such a supportive family and looks forward to continuing work with Eckerd Kids to achieve his best possible outcome.”

“Collin reports that Eckerd Kids has provided him the opportunity to continue to be successful with guidance and weekly support that he may not have otherwise received.”

“When my temporary position runs out, I have full confidence that I will know how to find my next path. I never once thought I was employable, as if working just wasn’t something I was capable of doing, but Eckerd Connects gave me everything I could need to finally take a step into the “adult world” and not be so scared.”

“Over the last year I have watched Alura’s confidence and self-esteem grow,” says Alura’s mother. “She has gone from the child who would have full blown anxiety attacks at every award ceremony due to stage fright, to a child who not only attended the school’s Valentines dance, but got up in front of everyone for a dance competition!”

“Thank you all, so much for everything that you have done to help us become a more stable family.”