Veteran Receives GED and Associates Degree

Kenny is now a college student with a part time job.  However, in August of 2012, Kenny was a high school dropout who had lived in 4 different states in the last few years.  He was estranged from his mother and living with friends.  At the age of 17, he was on his own and knew he had to make changes in his life.

Kenny, enrolled in Oconee Adult Education with the goal of earning his GED.  Kenny, who lived with friends, was determined to pass his GED and enroll in Tri County Tech.  Once in Adult Education, he learned about Palmetto Youth Connections and was eligible for the program.  Kenny stated that he was always the type of person who wanted to do well in life, but knew he would need an education and some additional guidance to do so.

Palmetto Youth Connections was able to pay for Kenny’s GED and Workkeys certifications.  Kenny passed his GED and also earned a $150 bonus for this.  Kenny is also one of the few youth who earned a Gold level in Work Keys.  While attending classes he also had transportation incentives.  Kenny met with the Workforce Development Specialist, who was able to offer training to him in resume, and interviewing skills.  In addition to these skills he also completed the NIOSH safety class. Kenny earned incentives for taking these classes which, in turn will help him with finding suitable employment.

Kenny, who has experience as a volunteer fireman, was given the opportunity to work in a work site placement.  Kenny was placed at Haven of Rest thrift store, where he was trained in customer service skills.  He also took the initiative to enroll in Tri County Tech and recently completed his two-year Associates Degree in Business, while working a part time job and also continues with the fire department.
Kenny met his long term goal to take part in the University transfer program to Clemson and was accepted to begin majoring in Construction Science and Management. He has also enlisted in the military and is scheduled to be deployed in October 2014.

“PYC is a great program that helped me get my life on track.  I wanted to further my education, but did not know where to start.  My career coach, Ann Marie Baker, and I spent numerous hours establishing goals and making plans.  We looked at what would be best for me to have a successful life and career.  Thanks to my career coach, and PYC, I can say that I am truly pleased with where I am in my life.” — Kenny Doll