YATC Cool Wheels Car Show
“Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.”
In 2006, I started temping at JM Family Enterprises. Every Wednesday, my boss and one of the other women in my department tutored at the Youth Automotive Training Center (YATC). I was curious about their tutoring sessions, which led me to ask a lot of questions. I learned that YATC was aligned with my philosophy of educating individuals and giving them the resources they need to build a better future for themselves. I wanted to tutor, too.
In September 2008, I was able to turn my desire into a reality. I have been tutoring and volunteering for YATC ever since, which brings me to the Cool Wheels Car Show.
Fun fact: YATC boasts an 89% success rate.
YATC trains at-risk youth in basic automotive repair skills, academics, job readiness, and life skills. The Cool Wheels Car Show was launched to network and partner with people in the automotive industry who can potentially hire YATC graduates. Although many students will utilize their automotive repair skills in the workforce, others will pursue college or jobs unrelated to cars. Thus, companies such as Publix, Home Depot and Target would also make great hiring partners. Passion and ambition will ultimately determine each student’s career path.
Fun fact: 88% of graduates have not experienced any legal trouble, and 85% have not spent any time in jail.
YATC looks for hiring partners in the community because every youth who walks through its doors has a colorful 
history. Finding a job can be quite challenging when the job application asks, “Have you ever been convicted of a felony?” and the answer is “yes.” YATC prepares students for jobs and will never send anyone to an interview until he or she is ready to work.
Fun fact: 96% of graduates have not used drugs since graduation.
The 30 students selected each year have the potential to succeed. They go through a vigorous interview process, and the best are chosen. They are drug tested. They come from the rough part of town. I have tutored several students, and they are sweet and well-mannered. They hold the door open, insisting I walk into the room first. Their file does not match the kindness I experience when I am with them. But, then again, if you or I were born into the same circumstances as they were, how would we look on paper? Probably not much different. These students WANT to turn their lives around, and YATC gives them a second chance.
Fun fact: YATC was founded 30 years ago by automotive legend, Jim Moran.
Thank you to all of the sponsors and volunteers who made this event possible. A very special thank you goes out to Joe and Mona Aliseo for all of their efforts in driving the Cool Wheels Car Show and hosting a great event.
Learn more about YATC.
- Catch the Cool Wheels Car Show highlights, including the Best in Show winner, on Car Show Television: http://www.carshowtelevision.com/cool-wheels-car-show-helps-get-kids-on-the-right-track/
- Car Tracks Newsletter (page 8)
- YATC: Welcome, Class 37! Blog
- My favorite charities
I am new to blogging and admire your write-up. You definitely have impressive article content.
Thanks for sharing your ideas with this blog.
Thanks for sharing your ideas here.
It’s actually a cool and helpful piece of info. I am happy that you just shared this useful information with us. Please keep us informed like this. Thank you for sharing.
I actually appreciate your content. The article really peaks my interest. I am going to bookmark your website and check for new information.
Thanks for the good write-up.
Keep doing what you are doing – looking forward to more posts.
Excellent article.
bookmarked! I really like your website!
I couldn’t resist commenting. Very well written!
Can I just say what a comfort to discover somebody that truly knows what they’re discussing on the web. You certainly realize how to bring an issue to light and make it important. A lot more people need to check this out and understand this side of the story. I was surprised that you’re not more popular because you definitely have the gift.
This is very interesting, You are a very skilled blogger.
I’ve joined your rss feed and look forward to seeking more of your magnificent posts.
Also, I have shared your web site in my social networks!
Saved as a favorite, I really like your website!
Spot on with this write-up, I actually believe this website needs much more attention. I’ll probably be back again to read more, thanks for the info!
You can certainly see your skills in the work you write. The world hopes for more passionate writers like you who aren’t afraid to say what they believe. Always follow your heart.
Some truly nice stuff on this website, I like it.
You seem like you know what you’re talking about! Thanks
Remarkable job!
You have made some really good points there.
Hey There. I found your blog using msn. This is an extremely well written article. I’ll make sure to bookmark it and come back to read more of your useful info. Thanks for the post. I will definitely return.
Oh my goodness! an incredible article dude.
Good write-up. I definitely love this website. Keep it up!
Saved as a favorite, I love your blog!
Hello! This is my 1st comment here so I just wanted to give a quick
shout out and tell you I truly enjoy reading your articles.
Excellent blog you have here. Kudos!
Howdy! I could have sworn I’ve been to this website before but after going through many of the posts I realized it’s new to me. Regardless, I’m certainly pleased I came across it and I’ll be bookmarking it and checking back frequently!
great topic. Thanks for excellent info.
You ought to be a part of a contest for one of the most useful websites online. I will highly recommend this web site!
I’m amazed, I must say. Seldom do I come across a blog that’s both equally educative and engaging, and without a doubt, you have hit the nail on the head. I am very happy I stumbled across this in my search.
Wonderful story.