YouthBuild Lake County / Success stories
Gissel
Finding her future and the support she wants to give others.
In her own words
Hear it from Gissel.
Gissel is 1 of 3 alumni sharing their YouthBuild journey in this Spring Benefit Mission Moment Video from 2025.
After losing her father, Gissel left high school to help take care of her family. She was working at McDonald’s and unsure what she wanted her future to look like when she found YouthBuild Lake County.
A place to begin again
At YBLC, Gissel applied herself in class and became an active member of the Youth Policy Council. She earned multiple scholarships through her service hours and the support of YouthBuild donors who recognized her determination.
“YouthBuild has always felt so warm and cozy – it honestly feels like my second home.”
Gissel
The one-on-one support she received made a lasting impression. It helped her discover an interest in early childhood education and the kind of teacher she hoped to become.
Taking that support into the classroom
“I didn’t have the one-on-one support in high school like I did at YouthBuild. I want to give the kids I am teaching that same support.”
Gissel
A member of the Class of 2025, Gissel continued her education at the College of Lake County with the goal of becoming a Pre-K teacher. Her next chapter builds on the confidence, leadership experience, and encouragement she found at YouthBuild.
“I know my dad is looking down on me and is proud that I am on the route of finding my dream career.”
Gissel
The Bigger Picture
One student’s future.
Many children’s possibilities.
Early childhood educators help children learn, grow, and prepare for school. Supporting a young adult’s education can also help prepare someone to support the next generation.
U.S. preschool teachers
66,700
projected job openings
each year, on average
From new jobs and the need to replace workers who leave these occupations.
Preparing tomorrow’s educators.
Projected U.S. employment growth, 2025 to 2035
Lake County research also identifies gaps in access to high-quality early childhood programs.
National projections for 2025 to 2035. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Preschool Teachers and Occupational Projections. Local context: Lake County Scaling Up Project, March 2026.
Help the next story begin.
Gissel’s journey shows what opportunity can make possible. Your support helps more young adults build a foundation through education, career training, and real work experience at YouthBuild Lake County.
