We are honored to share Stevenson’s inspiring journey, showcasing what’s possible when determination meets opportunity and strong partnerships pave the way. Junior Achievement’s remarkable support, combined with leveraging its strong partnership with MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board, enabled Stevenson to not just survive, but thrive.

Celebrating Stevenson’s Success, Hard Work, & Journey to a Brighter Future When Stevenson arrived in New Bedford from Haiti, he brought with him a heart full of ambition, a sharp mind, and a dream for a better life. But life threw him some serious challenges. Forced to leave high school due to circumstances beyond his control, Stevenson found himself in urgent need of support. That’s when Junior Achievement stepped in. Junior Achievement quickly mobilized resources to meet Stevenson’s immediate needs—ensuring he had access to emergency housing, providing daily essential items, and even offering a gym membership so he had a safe, welcoming space during the day. But Junior Achievement’s support didn’t stop there. Stevenson was enrolled in the Out-of-School Youth Program through Junior Achievement’s partnership with the MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board. This program offers up to a year of comprehensive support, helping young people like Stevenson gain financial literacy, earn their high school equivalency, and build the skills needed for long-term career success. And Stevenson seized every opportunity. With his natural charisma and determination, and with the support of Junior Achievement and the MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board, he earned a career credential in customer service and sales, landed a job in retail, and soon transitioned into a better opportunity in the manufacturing sector. Today, he’s studying for his high school equivalency exams, preparing to get his driver’s license, and—perhaps most exciting of all—he just moved into his very own apartment with his brother. Stevenson’s story is a testament to what’s possible when talent meets opportunity. With the right support, he’s not just surviving—he’s thriving. And Stevenson is just getting started, the sky is the limit for him! Junior Achievement has been supporting me through everything. They never gave up on me. They helped me get my career credential, my job, and now my own apartment. I’m working towards my high school certification now, and I just want to say thank you to everyone for all of the support. I’m excited to see how far I can go.” – Stevenson