Marcus came into 71Five’s VoTech Training quiet, unsure, and carrying the weight of a lot of past disappointment. At 17, he had bounced between schools, struggled with attendance, and never really found something that gave him a sense of purpose. He often said, “I’m just not good at anything,” and believed it. During the first few weeks of the basic auto maintenance course, Marcus barely spoke. He stayed in the background, watching the other students. But when we got to the section on changing oil and checking fluids, something clicked. With a wrench in his hand and his head under the hood, he came alive. For the first time, he wasn’t just listening he was engaged. He started asking questions, staying late to help clean up, and even helping the other students catch up. What stood out most was when his mom told us that for the first time in years, Marcus was excited to get up in the morning. “He’s talking about cars nonstop,” she said, holding back tears… “He told me, ‘Mom, I think I found something I’m good at!’”

 

More than learning how to maintain a vehicle, Marcus discovered that he’s not a mistake, not a failure. God used a simple tool and a basic skill to speak truth into his life that he was created on purpose for a purpose. Through 71Five VoTech, Marcus saw a glimpse of the man God created him to be capable, valuable, and not forgotten. This is why we appreciate your care for these young people!