At Youth Making Changes Inc., we believe every young person has the potential to succeed when given the right support, encouragement, and opportunities.
This page is dedicated to celebrating the accomplishments, resilience, and personal growth of youth who have participated in our programs. Each success story reflects determination, perseverance, leadership, and the courage to overcome challenges while working toward a brighter future.
From educational achievements and career milestones to personal development and community involvement, these stories highlight the incredible potential of young people and the positive impact that mentorship, guidance, and support can make in their lives.
We are proud to recognize these young leaders and share their journeys as a source of inspiration for others. Their success reminds us that with dedication, hard work, and opportunity, anything is possible.
Every story matters. Every achievement deserves recognition. Every young person has the power to create a successful future.
Against the Odds: A First-Year College Success
Keshanna Jones is a shining example of resilience, determination, and perseverance. Having grown up in foster care, Keshanna faced challenges and obstacles that many young people never have to experience. Along her journey, she encountered people who doubted her abilities and told her she would never make it to college let alone successfully complete her first year.
Instead of allowing those doubts to define her future, Keshanna used them as motivation. Through hard work, dedication, and an unwavering belief in herself, she enrolled at Monroe Community College (MCC) and has now successfully completed her first year of college.
Keshanna’s story is a powerful reminder that your circumstances do not determine your destiny. She has proven that with courage, persistence, and determination, it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve your goals. Her journey inspires other young people, especially those who have experienced foster care. to dream big, work hard, and never let anyone tell them what they cannot accomplish.
Congratulations, Keshanna! Your Youth Making Changes family is proud of you, and we look forward to watching you continue to grow, succeed, and inspire others.
Keshanna Jones
Perseverance Through Adversity
Shaqeal Rutland’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, determination, and perseverance.
After experiencing the devastating loss of his mother, Shaqeal faced one of the most difficult challenges a young person can endure. Despite his grief and the obstacles that followed, he refused to allow adversity to define his future.
Already holding an Associate Degree, Shaqeal remained committed to his educational goals and returned to college with a renewed determination to succeed. Today, he is enrolled at SUNY Brockport, where he is pursuing his Bachelor’s Degree.
With only one semester remaining before graduation, Shaqeal continues to demonstrate strength, focus, and dedication to building a brighter future for himself.
His story serves as an inspiration to other young people facing life’s challenges, proving that even in the face of loss, it is possible to keep moving forward, achieve your goals, and create a successful future.
Youth Making Changes Inc. proudly celebrates Shaqeal Rutland and wishes him continued success as he completes his Bachelor’s Degree.
SHAQUEAL RUTLAND