Roberto and a Cornerstone Craftsman participant had a brief text conversation soon after Roberto helped him connect with the Steam Fitters Union. The participant’s dad is earning his HVAC certificate while incarcerated. The young man asked if Roberto could help him get into HVAC because he wanted to find a way to bond with his dad when he was released. 

Roberto: “I’m proud of you, homie.”

Participant: “Thanks, boss man, for being who you are and showing me and all the guys there is more than what we see around us.”

Participant: “It’s critical because most of the war our brothers fight is in the mind, thinking there is no other way or nothing better for them.” 

– Father and Son Learn HVAC (5.30.24)

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“I will request to the courts that all the kids on my caseload can go through Roberto’s program. I’m grateful that the kids in this City have an opportunity like this pre-apprentice program. The work Roberto is doing is the only one I know of in Alexandria City.”

– Alexandria City Probation Officer (5.16.24)

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“We have a young man who spent two years in our program, is now off probation, has a full-time job, and is on track to graduate high school.”

– Roberto Gomez (5.14.24)

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“My son has matured and developed a clearer vision for his future since joining the Even Scale program. He’s inspired to pursue entrepreneurship thanks to Mr. Roberto’s guidance. He sees himself as a future leader and businessman. As a proud parent, I love seeing my son excited to go to Even Scale each morning. He’s learning valuable skills to prepare him for whatever comes after high school or college. I’m incredibly grateful to Mr. Roberto for his dedication to these young men. Even Scale is a true example of a ‘village’ supporting our children’s growth.”

– A Parent of a Program Participant (11.5.2023)

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“I’m 15 and a student at Alexandria City High School. This program has helped me in so many ways. I’ve learned many new skills I can use for the future, whatever path I choose. It’s also helped me develop my communication skills, making it easier to talk to people. Plus, the program keeps me focused and out of trouble and the streets.”

– A Program Participant (11.5.2023)

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“We are so proud of our son’s progress since joining Mr. Gomez’s program at Even Scale LLC. He is gaining different skills, knowledge, and know-how that are different from the classroom. It makes me so happy that he joined this program. He is more confident, motivated, and ready to go. The program has instilled a sense of community involvement and sparked an interest in potential career paths like real estate or construction. Thank you so much, Mr. Gomez. Please keep up this good work. As parents, we highly appreciate you and will always support you.”

– Parents of a Program Participant (11.3.2023)