12 Kids of Christmas: Meet Kevin

Reason to Give #6: Get to Work

It’s not surprising that our kids are unemployed. Yes this is a tough job market, but even when times are good our kids struggle. Many haven’t worked before. They don’t know how to look for a job, put together a resume or handle themselves on an interview. And with all of their pain and anger from past abuse and neglect, sometimes they have trouble with authority. It is so important that we work to provide opportunities for our young people, instill work values and help them maintain a job once they find one. Without employment our kids can’t move forward. Help them gain the tools they need.

Meet Kevin.
Kevin is 18, resides in Rights of Passage and is now a Street Outreach Junior Staff.

We asked him his story, here's what he said:

Why did you come to Covenant House?
I was homeless and living in a park for a week before coming here. Basically my family was very unstable. I remember staying in abandoned houses with my dad when I was little. I ended up being taken away from my parents and put in foster care.

If you could pick one thing that Covenant House has helped you with, what would it be?
I've had a lot of bad experiences happen to me and my siblings. I have a lot of anger because I felt so helpless and couldn't make things better for us. I especially have a lot of anger for females. Covenant House, especially Ms. Bosley has helped me through a lot of things and when I see the staff who are majority female helping me, it's hard for me to continue to be angry. They have also taught me to have more tolerance, not to judge people and get to know them and to be more independent.

What are you grateful for?
To have staff who are willing to help when need be. I'm also grateful for this new position as a junior staff. I went through the total me program and did everything I was supposed to. Part of the program is attending the job club where they teach you how to look for a job, handle yourself properly and keep a job once you get it. Since I have anger issues they have been teaching me how to cope so that when I am working and something comes up that makes me mad, I can keep calm and stayed focused. Because of my good behavior, timeliness, and willingness to attend all the classes, I was recommended by a number of staff for this position. I look forward to working with the Outreach Team and helping people.

What's your best memory at Covenant House?
The Calling All Angels event was great. I got to have a good time and talk with a lot of different people. I also liked going to the art opening in Birmingham. I got to create something and meet more new people. Oh and of course being told I got the junior staff position. I still can't believe it!

And finally, what do you want to accomplish in the new year?
Work, plan and be a good staff.

Yes! I want to give today to provide job skills and help all your kids, like Kevin, succeed!

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