Thank You for Inspiring Korey!

In 2004, high school freshman Korey decided something in his life had to change. He felt like he didn't fit in and school just wasn't for him. Frustrated with the situation, he chose to drop out.

Nearly eight months later, a friend put Korey in touch with YouthBuild, a local program for youth supported by United Way. During his first visit with the organization he learned he could help build or reconstruct housing for low to moderate income families. The program promised to help him get back into school while giving him valuable experience and job training skills. He would even have the opportunity to earn an income. Korey knew he wanted to get involved.

It's been three years since Korey started working with YouthBuild. He's helped build three separate homes and has spent quite a bit of time remodeling his own home. He's learned how to read plans, run electrical wire, install plumbing, and draw plans of his own. When asked what his favorite part of the program is Korey stated, "The deconstruction. It's fun to swing the hammer and tear down a wall!"

Korey has also built a positive future for himself. In March he will graduate from high school. He has a part time job on the side at AutoZone and would like to earn a degree in auto mechanics. Korey's thankful he's found a place where he can learn new skills and he feels like he fits in!