E’Dayjia came to YouthBuild Lake County with ambitious plans for her future, including a career in healthcare. What she needed was a place to begin.

Through her three-week Work Experience and career readiness support from YBLC’s staff, she gained experience and began preparing for the workforce. When transportation became a barrier, YouthBuild Supportive Services connected her with a donated bicycle. She used it to get to Work Experience and support her job search.

After earning her high school diploma, E’Dayjia was hired as an ABA Specialist with Action Behavior Centers. As shared in YBLC’s 2026 Annual Report, she was also pursuing a healthcare pathway at the College of Lake County to continue advancing her career.

Her story shows how education, work experience, and practical support can work together. With a diploma and a place to put her skills to use, E’Dayjia began turning her ambitions into a career.