Calvin Dowell came to the IYIP program as a young father expressing a desire to make a better life for himself and his son. He had a legal situation and was determined not to let that discourage him from seeking better experiences that would allow him to improve the quality of his life. At the beginning of the application process, Calvin showed that he sincerely wanted a positive change. His vibrant personality and ability to display his desire for change attracted the attention of the IYIP staff, and it is still a pleasure to work with him.

     After completing the IYIP enrollment process, Calvin was accepted into the inaugural brick layers class offered by LBDNH and the Bricklayers Local 8 Of Illinois Apprenticeship. The class was held for five weeks or 150 classroom training hours. As his case manager, I was able to monitor his progress, and I was greatly impressed because he continued to show that he wanted a better life and to obtain employable skills to make that happen. I remember receiving calls from him, making sure that he was at the right building on campus or in the correct classroom. His attendance was stellar, and his instructors reported that he was a joy to work with as a student.

     Upon completing the program, Calvin was named valedictorian of his class and offered words of encouragement and inspiration to his fellow graduating peers during the completion ceremony planned by the IYIP staff. He has received a qualifying letter from Bricklayers Local 8 of Illinois Apprenticeship informing him that he has met the qualifying requirements for Local 8 J.A.T.C. Apprentice Program as set under the guidance of the U.S. Department of Labor.

     He is now employed with A.K. Rentals, responsible for waterproofing buildings prior to bricklaying in the Parkway School District of St. Louis County. Because of his desire to make a better life for himself and his son, Calvin now has earned a valuable skill, learned to network with others that can enhance his career, and has become a role model for other young men in need of a new direction. Congratulations, Calvin, on a job well done!