A lingering question has fallen on many of our youth today and it’s along the lines of: how do I fit in today’s world? This notion is intimidating because it is enacted at a young age perhaps even when the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” is asked, does it take effect. Though every adult can relate to the answer that includes a shrug of the shoulders and a “dunno” that follows. This may be rhetorical to the vision we all imagine in a classroom after drafting out what the next five years may look like. Because if the answer is still one big question mark then how do we guide our youth? YTC takes a stab at this by being recognized as one of the forces who are creating a world where every young person has the resources, confidence, and support to turn challenges into opportunities. Because even if no one may have a true answer as to what they want to do with their life, the real answer is: it’s not about what you want to do but how you do it. Your way of life influences the career choices you are presented with and the doors that open to help you achieve your goals. The guidance YTC offers is one that includes through
clothing, mentorship, media, entrepreneurship, and wellness to build sustainable futures. These may roll off the tongue easily, but in actuality they are instrumental to one’s development. By utilizing mentorship, you learn the lessons that may have taken some decades to grasp. Through perception you can craft your image and brand, this may derive from the clothes you wear or how you articulate yourself. Ways the youth can be prepared for what’s happening in the world doesn’t start from fearing the grand scheme of things but being open-minded. To not block any of life’s blessings or teaching moments, and to act on windows of opportunities.
Recently, YTC’s board member and Treasurer, Emily Patton hosted a financial seminar that demystifies the FAFSA and financial aid process while building confidence and agency. Students left the meeting with their FAFSA account set up and a checklist to follow for next steps. These are one of the many ways the youth can take the confusion of independence and gain a clearer understanding of how they can set themselves up for success. It starts with learning and stepping away from procrastination.
The Community Chest Networking Webinar Series, launching in 2026, represents a significant step in expanding support for youth as they prepare for life beyond high school. Designed to equip students with essential knowledge, practical tools, and the confidence to navigate their futures, the series offers interactive workshops, expert‑guided conversations, and real‑world insights into career pathways and higher education. The webinar, held on January 3rd, marked an important beginning, one that sets the tone for a year of meaningful connection, mentorship, and opportunity. Through continued programming, the series remains committed to empowering the next generation to unlock their potential and move forward with clarity and purpose.
An early sneak peak of what more is to come is the reimagined Turn-Around podcast that will be on all streaming platforms in the near future. It’s a podcast highlighting youth, creatives, and community leaders transforming access into opportunity (Stay in the loop by checking out yadestinytreasurechest.org/).
So if you are reading this and still feeling lost, just know that all you have to do is start. YTC helps the youth by giving them programming to help them regain control of their willpower and have a sense of purpose. This kind of drive is what one should be striving for not seeking for a singular employment to define them.
You make the choices.
