Youth Highlights

At the LA Conservation Corps, our primary mission is to offer at-risk young adults and school-aged youth with opportunities to succeed by providing them with job training, education, and work skills training with an emphasis on environmental and service projects that benefit the community. Here are just a few stories of the young people who are improving the quality of life in L.A.

Joshlynn Pryor, 25
Young Adult Corps
Attending LA Trade Tech College
Joshlynn grew up in a very difficult family that didn't support her personal decisions. She was forced to leave home several times. She recalls once that her dad nearly drowned her because he didn't approve of her decisions.
The Corps was a place without judgement. It offered her the opportunity to complete her High School Diploma and get valuable job training. Joshlynn excelled at the Corps, becoming President of the Leadership Council and spoke on behalf of the Corps in Sacramentio.
Joshlynn will enroll in LA Trade Tech College this Fall to study Landscape Architecture.

Crystal Dickens, 19
Clean & Green and Eco Academy High School
Attending Humbolt State University
"For 18 years of my life I wondered why my family abused me mentally? Why they never loved me?" Crystal grew up with her grandmother, uncle and young nieces and nephews in a 1-bedroom home. Her mother left her when she was just 2 years-old and her father has never been present in her life. Her uncle is mentally disabled and three of her nieces and nephews living with her were autistic. She grew up in a family with little support, both financially and emotionally.
"The Corps helped me and molded me into the young responsible woman I am today." At Eco Academy, Crystal received the personal attention she needed to succeed in school, as well as the emotional support from her teachers.
Crystal graduated with a 3.4 GPA and has been accepted to Humbolt State University for Fall '10.

Gerardo Soto, 19
Young Adult Corps
Attending East LA College
Gerardo grew up in a very tough neighborhood. His siblings were all affiliated with gangs. His brother is currently serving juvenile life for his gang offenses. He got into many fights because of his siblings' affiliations with gangs. When Gerardo dropped out of school, he got kicked out of the house. With nowhere to live, Gerardo found his way to the Corps. Through the Transitional Living Program, Gerardo was able to get a place to live while also learning valuable independent living skills. The Corps also gave him hands-on job skills training opportunities that makes him valuable in the workforce.
Gerardo is currently attending East LA College. He is very interested in Math and wants to eventually pursue Engineering.