Before coming to Portland YouthBuilders in 2014, PYB graduate Jesus was struggling to find the support necessary to advance his education and pursue his career. He describes feeling a bit lost when he first came to PYB, as both his home life and school life were unstable at the time.

His cousin Sam, a former student of Portland YouthBuilders, recommended the program to Jesus. Jesus enrolled in our technology training program and found the support and environment he needed. Jesus credits the emotional support of the staff at PYB, saying “I was able to connect with people at PYB like I couldn’t before.” He now works as a Community Healing Initiative Mentor for Latino Network, where he supports youth in our community who are at risk of incarceration. Jesus is also a working artist and has created many incredible murals to brighten up his East Portland neighborhood.