About 12 years ago, Melanie embraced the opportunity that YouthBuild Newark offered -- a chance to earn a trade and develop herself as a leader. And from that opportunity, Melanie has built a life for her and her family that’s full of possibilities.

Today, Christian confidently knows his worth, but there was a time in his life when he didn’t know his value. So between stop signs and crosswalks, he makes sure to tell the young people he meets that they have the power to change their community.