Growing up in unstable environments, Kyle often lacked the consistent support every young person deserves. At 16, after years of moving between difficult living situations, Kyle left school. But when he moved in with his friend’s family—into a home free of substance use and full of stability—his outlook began to shift.
That’s when he found Discovering Choices High School, and through it, Youth Central.
Wanting a full high school experience, Kyle joined our Youth Council program. He made new connections, volunteered in his community, and discovered the power of giving back. Through GRADitude, he received a suit for graduation and future job interviews—something he wouldn’t have felt comfortable asking his new guardians to afford. He told us that moment helped him feel “prepared, respected, and seen.”
Kyle’s perseverance earned him recognition as a 2025 YODA finalist and made him a role model to other youth in our programs. And his words to our supporters say it all: “Although Youth Central isn’t the largest organization, it has massive impact. Things are challenging right now, the world is changing and people like you are a backbone. Giving a helping hand is one of the best things you can do.”
