Lafourche Parish Government would like to spotlight one of Beyond the Bell’s very first youth members Mr. Dontarius. He was recently featured as a top student for the Youth Build Program. Lafourche Parish would like to wish him well with all of his future endeavors. You can read his testimonial below.
The Problem - Dontarius lost his motivation when his mother passed away when he was 9 years old. He resorted to marijuana to relieve his stress. His living situation was abusive. He stopped caring about himself and his education. He dropped out of school in 10th grade.
The Solution - The Wallace Center in Raceland, LA became his safe place. The director, Ms. Heather Benoit, took Dontarius in as one of her own and guided him in the right direction. He found a positive living environment with his girlfriend and her parents, made healthy choices, and his self-motivation returned. He enrolled in START Corp YouthBuild, became an adult education student at Fletcher Technical Community College, and a Louisiana Work Connection client. He is earning certifications in Basic Life Skills,, National Center for Construction Education and Research, and Customer Service. In addition, he will complete an FDIC Financial Literacy course and Northstar Computer LIteracy certification. He is also working towards earning his high school diploma. He has enjoyed community service at both The Wallace Center and YouthBuild.
The Outcome - Dontarius is thankful that he has the opportunity to gain employability skills with YouthBuild. He is interested in pursuing a business career, along with welding, both beginning at Fletcher Technical Community College. He is proud to represent YouthBuild as a Louisiana Association for Public, Community, and Adult Education ambassador, and he is grateful for all the people who have encouraged him and impacted his life and his future. He is creating a better life for himself.
