A path to the future: Jaizhon's story of determination

Check out this incredible story of one of our YouthBuild students who found success and is now on his way to a career in the Skilled Trades. Thank you to the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) and the Lowe's Foundation for believing in Jaizhon and giving him a path to a future he can be proud of.

Jaizhon Reeder felt stuck, searching for the right career path in Detroit when a friend told him about MiSide’s YouthBuild Academy, a skilled trades career training program for young adults supported by Lowe's Foundation through LISC. It proved to be a life-changing recommendation.

During the 24-week program, Reeder learned foundational carpentry skills in the classroom, earned key credentials for employment in the sector, and got hands-on experience building and rehabbing affordable housing in the community.

Along the way, MiSide’s coaches provided Reeder with invaluable support and encouragement, ultimately helping him secure a paid apprenticeship with the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters & Millwrights. Now, he's eager to build a lasting career in the #SkilledTrades.