Jonathan’s Story
With his neat tie and bright smile, Jonathan is a cheerful presence in The Sharing Place – LSA’s community thrift store. He has been volunteering in the store this fall to meet his community service requirement as a sophomore at Cristo Rey High School. And he likes the work. “I like helping clients find what they want because they thank you, and that’s a good feeling,” he says.
Though he started volunteering this fall, he’s not new to LSA. In fact, as a graduate of LSA’s nursing and early childhood programs, Jonathan has been a part of the LSA family since his birth!
Jonathan’s mother, Alva, first came to LSA for nursing care when she was pregnant with Jonathan. Our nurses helped ensure that she remained healthy throughout her pregnancy and after Jonathan was born. Alva enrolled Jonathan in our early childhood parenting program and was actively involved in LSA’s parent groups. With the help of LSA, Alva took ESL and GED classes. Eventually, she even started working with LSA to provide childcare for children while parents attended special workshops.
Although it was a long time ago, Jonathan still remembers coming to LSA with his mom. “I used to come hang out with my friends,” he says. “I feel comfortable around here because everyone knows me, and I can just be myself.”
Today, Jonathan is a successful student. He likes math and wants to pursue a career in technology. We are proud to have a graduate of our programs giving back to the LSA community and wish Jonathan a world of success!
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Photo by Micah Rubin.