Why did you choose to work at Youth Villages?
Because I enjoy working with children and making a difference in the lives of young people.

What positions have you held?
I have held many jobs in my life, but at Youth Villages, I started as a residential counselor, then became an overnight teacher-counselor and now am a teacher.

What do you love about being a teacher at Youth Villages?
I love the challenges and having the opportunity to use the skills I’ve learned over the years working with troubled children.

What does a typical day look like working at the campus school?
There is not a typical day on the job; every day offers a new and rewarding challenge, and there are always unpredictable situations that I face daily.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in your first year at Youth Villages and how did you overcome them?
I really can’t remember any challenges during my first year at Youth Villages.

What benefits or advancement opportunities have you taken advantage of?
I love the fact that Youth Villages offers full medical, dental, life and disability benefits. I’ve taken advantage of all these benefits.

What is one piece of advice you would give someone who is considering working for Youth Villages?
I would tell them they should love to work with troubled youth with many challenges, ranging from mental to physical and learning disabilities. I would also tell them they must have patience.

How would you describe what it’s like working at Youth Villages?
Working at Youth Villages is what you make of it; if you love what you do, you will stay and continue to work here like so many of us.

How would you describe the work atmosphere and your colleagues?
It’s a pleasant atmosphere, and my colleagues are friendly.

What has been the most rewarding experience so far at Youth Villages?
The most rewarding experience is when I see a young person march on graduation day, discharge successfully and their parent and/or guardian is there to witness the event.

What are the children and families like that you work with?
Many of them are ordinary people who are going through very serious problems as a family. They all need our help to get through and move on to a better future.

What is the best thing about working for Youth Villages?
I get a chance to help a troubled youth make changes in his /her life so they can become productive leaders for tomorrow.