Metro Flint Youth Build Program Partnership Success
Genesee County – Kaleb Johnson was referred to GST Michigan Works! in June 2018 through our Metro Flint Youth Build partnership. Kaleb is a former ward of the state and high school dropout that had recently relocated to Flint to live with his sister and secure a better life. Despite various personal setbacks/life struggles while in Flint, he decided to pursue a GED and career training with a positive attitude.
GST Michigan Works! provided career coaching, outside agency referrals and general support to assist Kaleb during the program to overcome his various barriers of employment/personal setbacks. Both his Career Coach Kim Streeter and Metro Flint Youth Build staff immediately recognized his natural leadership and communication skills. He quickly became a role model to the other participants and a positive force for the program. Upon attaining his GED and completing BCON training in 11/2018, W.T. Stevens, Inc. immediately hired him for an internship as a Residential Renovation Chief Supervisor until January 2019.
Following his internship, Kaleb encountered another setback… he became homeless.His career coach closely monitored this situation and due to the efforts of Metro Flint Youth Build staff, Kaleb now has a permanent residence. Shortly after securing a new home, Kaleb was hired as General Construction Laborer for Premier Plastics, Inc. in February 2019 at $13.00 per hour.