TLP Youth Receive Awards

“Your achievement reinforces the importance of creating opportunity for our youth. On behalf of Youth Advantage, Your Leadership, Guidance, and Support…has not gone unnoticed.” These words, etched on the two plaques honoring the Children’s Home Society’s Parkersburg Site, and the Transitional Living Program, as Partner’s of Excellence at the 10th Annual Youth of Excellence Awards, symbolize what the TL Program aspires to do daily for those youth participating in transitional services.

Presented by Workforce West Virginia, in conjunction with Youth Advantage, the awards were humbly accepted by TL Case Manager Lisa Doyle- Parsons on June 23, 2011, at a luncheon. More notable than the agency recognition, was the recognition and honors received by two outstanding TL youth.

Aaron Pratt, a 21 year old youth who entered the program late February this year, received a $500 Scholarship to WVU-P for the fall term; A Youth of Excellence Rising Star Award; and was elected to serve on the “A Team,” a youth advisory board for Youth Advantage. Prior to joining the TLP, Aaron, then unemployed, had spent the last several months shelter surfing, often maxing out his time before moving on to another city with another homeless shelter. Currently Aaron is doing well living in his own apartment, is employed at Workforce WV, participates in life skills training and community service activities, and is on target to attend college at WVU-P in the fall.

Twenty year old Kim Reisinger, who completed the TL Program in April 2011, was the recipient of a $100 Saving Bond, a Mid-Ohio Valley Time to Shine Award, and the Youth of Excellence Award. Kim entered the program underemployed, and unable to afford housing or transportation on her own. During the six months spent in the program, Kim located and resided in her own apartment, obtained her driver’s license, purchased a used car, enrolled in and completed CNA training, participated in life skills training, and was active in community service activities. Kim successfully exited the program in April and is currently in the process of purchasing her own home; became involved in a positive healthy relationship; upgraded her car; and is working 3 jobs while seeking employment as a CNA. The Transitional Living Program proudly acknowledges and congratulates our “Youth of Excellence,” Aaron Pratt and Kimberley Reisinger.

Posted By: Lisa Doyle-Parsons