|  By: YouthBuild Fresno Staff
Earlier this month, our staff and students from our very own YouthBuild – including LCC Director Shawn Riggins, YouthBuild graduate Ismael Barajas, and current YouthBuild student Kevin Williams – along with Associate Executive Director Paul McLain-Lugowsky joined YouthBuild programs nationwide as they advocated on behalf of the program to members of Congress. Ismael and Kevin shared their personal stories and how the program has helped transform their lives.
During the visit, the group met with Congressmen Jim Costa (D-CA) and Devin Nunes (R-CA), as well as staff members from Congressman Jerry Lewis’ (R-CA) office and the Senate Appropriations Committee. In a chance meeting, they were able to take advantage of a photo opportunity with Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-OH), and while at Reagan International Airport, bumped into and took a photo with Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA). Our Corpsmembers made a huge impression on those they met – including members of Congress and YouthBuild USA Founder Dorothy Stoneman.
After their advocating work, Shawn led Ismael and Kevin on a tour of American historical sites such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Monument, the new Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the White House. The duo was grateful to have the opportunity to participate in the visit to our Nation’s Capital. Their feelings were best summed up by Kevin. He said, “This trip brings honor to my family.” |
