A True Home for Us All

Hello everyone, my name is Carlentz and I was a student at Project HOME’s Teen Program for two years. 

Through these two years, I have nothing except great things to say. My friend told me about this program and honestly I saw it as a way to get some extra cash during the school year. But as I came in more and more, I realized just how special this program is. Starting off with the adults, they were for sure a highlight. Ms Liz, Ms Ra, Ms Cam, and Ms Sheena especially. They made this program feel like home and overall a safe space to be who we are and share our voice. Big thank you to them. And a special thank you to Chef Khy, she fed my love for cooking deeper than it was through culinary elective. Her and this program provided the equipment and space to try new recipes and skills that I wouldn’t be able to do otherwise, so thank you for that. 

This program also opened many doors for me. Through networking and internships, especially. The internship I did for two summers was at Sanctuary Farm and it honestly changed me for the better. When I used to think of careers, I would always think of what could make me the most money the quickest. But working on the farm made me realize how deep my love for others is because through the community work we did, I saw how much I can do for people. Without this internship through Project HOME I wouldn’t be able to realize it. Now I value more than just money when thinking about long-term careers. 

The main take away career-wise is finding opportunity. They’ve taught us to do this through relationships with others. They taught us to do this with networking, fairs, communicating, resumes, Linkedin, and more. Next year, I am going to be a part of AON’s apprenticeship program, where I will be working with finances and insurance while going to [Community College of Philadelphia] at the same time all through the program. I actually met the AON representative at Project HOME’s College and Trade Fair. After hearing about the program, I worked hard to get in, applying and going through several interviews. By using the knowledge that this program taught me, I got into AON’s apprenticeship program. Ms. Jamie has played a huge role in my success so big shoutout to her, another person that made this place feel like home. 

Overall, this program has been a true home for us all. Being somewhere we can go and express ourselves in ways we may not be able to in other places. They give us the resources to explore our interests and opportunity to expand on them. The community here is refreshing and this is a place I can call home. 

And finally, before I wrap up, I need to thank the individuals who have made this program, and this incredible learning center possible. First, Lynne and Harold Honickman. Thank you both for your vision, your compassion, and your long-time leadership in support of education within our community. I would like to thank Sister Mary Scullion and Joan Dawson McConnon for bringing Project HOME to life, and for their steadfast 35 years of leadership. And to Project HOME’s CEO Donna Bullock, thank you for continuing to champion this organization’s mission and vision. 

Thank you all.