Jaime’s Story

Jamie is a student of the Plan Ahead Youth Program he was referred to us through one of our partner organization, Family Resource Center. When Jamie first arrived to the youth program, he was in danger of not passing the fifth grade. His report card showed lacking comprehension in all subject areas. The students that enter the youth program often struggle in areas of language arts, mathematics, and critical thinking. The youth counselors within the program, therefore approach each student with a specific focus area. Jamie enrolled in our youth program in April, he was expected to raise his grades before the school year ended in June. His mother was concerned about her son’s academic pressure. On Jamie’s first day at the program, he had exhibited some shy behavior, hesitation, and a little self-doubt. He had some difficulties comprehending his academic assignments. Despite the challenges Jamie was facing within his academic environment, he was determined to overcome these academic obstacles. Jamie wanted to learn more and improve himself.
With the help of our youth program counselors, they were able to ensure that The Cambodian Family remained a safe space for learning and improving. The youth counselors provided leadership activities focused around health, life skills, and future planning.

During a career day presentation focused on law enforcement and fingerprinting, Jamie began to express more of his interest. After the career day presentation, Jamie started discuss potential future careers within the science, video game design, and archaeology field. Jamie became very engaged with his peers. He was able to be more social and make friends within a safe and empowering environment. He began to break away from his shyness and answer questions in class. Over the weeks, Jamie had shown a great deal of confidence within his work. At our annual graduation event, Jamie proudly received his certificate of recognition. His parents expressed that they are extremely happy and thankful for the youth counselors’ dedication towards helping their son pass to the next grade level.