This month we are highlighting Izaiah Lear.  He participated in our APPS program last summer. APPS (Applying Purpose and Passion to Service) is a City of Columbus job readiness program where participants gain real-world, paid work experience. 

Izaiah, who will be 17 this year noted on his pre-survey that his primary motivation for applying for APPS was to have his own source of income.  When asked what skills or abilities he hoped to gain, he replied “the ability to learn, work, and be happy.” 

In addition to working across programs at FACCES, he participated in a daily seminar around the Ohio Means Jobs Readiness criteria.  Izaiah was reliable, punctual, and had a strong work ethic.  Over the summer, he showed growth in multiple areas including collaboration and teamwork, critical thinking and problem solving.

Once you got to know him you realized he is a creative thinker with a penchant for humor.  Izaiah continues to be a part of FACCES as he volunteers at our Fresh Market every second and fourth Arbacada. You can often spot him tearing down all the boxes and hauling the cardboard to the dumpster.   His goal is to earn his CDL and be an over the road truck driver.