Daniel Brito

Self Confidence goes a long way, by Daniel Brito, Construction Training Program Graduate at YouthBuild Boston

Three years ago, I would have told anyone that I wouldn't be where I am today. School was hard, so I didn't focus and I got in a lot of trouble. I spent most of my teenage years in juvenile facilities. It got so bad that I wasn't allowed into regular classes in Boston Public Schools. I thought about dropping out.

But I got to a point where I realized it was all on me. I knew I didn't want to be like my parents, I wanted to be better. I set a lot of goals, the main one being to graduate. I realized that nobody was going to do it for me. I gave it a serious chance, and I received the attention I needed. I found that I learned different from others so I was put in a small class and had an IEP (individual education plan)--I liked to learn as much as any other student. Math was my favorite subject. I knew I'd use it no matter what I did in life. There were many ups and downs, and it was tough. But I did it. It was only a matter of me taking advantage.

But when I graduated a year ago, I felt lost. I knew it was just the beginning of my life. I knew college wasn't for me--I'm more of a 'hands-on' person. It was tough because I had no support system, but I had teachers who cared. One of my teachers went out of her way to help me find what fit me, and I found YouthBuild Boston. I followed my heart towards carpentry.

Today I feel so happy with the track I'm on. I love what I do, I am making money doing it, and I have a girlfriend that loves and supports me. I feel like I couldn't ask for more. I hope that I am inspiration to others at YouthBuild Boston. All it takes is to believe in yourself.

Daniel made quite a turnaround during his seven months at YouthBuild Boston. Although he had a rocky start in the program, he soon established himself as a peer leader. As a young man without a support system and no career path, Dan recognized that he had found a pathway to success. Daniel is now an apprentice with the Carpenters Union Local 67. He is currently working for Capeway Interiors, of Haverhill, MA, earning more than $17 hourly plus benefits. He still strives for self-improvement, taking extra math courses and honing his craft.

Visit www.ybboston.org for more information about YouthBuild Boston and their programs, including Project Advantage (youth 16-18 years) and Construction Training (youth 18-24 years).