

Meet Rodrick and his friends— a determined young men who completed high school last year and chose not to waste a single moment waiting for college. Instead, they rolled up their sleeves and decided to learn a valuable skill: welding.
With dreams in their hearts and fire in their hands (literally and figuratively!), Rodrick and his friends joined a local welding workshop to gain hands-on experience. They knew that learning a skill before starting college in September would not only give them confidence, but also open doors to future opportunities — both as students and as professionals.
I’ve had the privilege of supporting them through this journey. From paying training fees and daily lunch to buying the necessary tools, it’s been an honor to invest in their growth. Their dedication and willingness to learn inspire me every day.
As September approaches, Rodrick and friends continue to shape metal and shape their future. I’m excited to see what lies ahead for them in college and beyond — and proud to have played a small part in their story.
Let’s keep supporting young people like Rodrick and his friends who are eager to learn, grow, and change their future — one skill at a time.