Orlando C. | Grant Woods Branch
When Orlando first joined the Grant Woods Branch five years ago, he was a self-described mischief-maker and struggled to have a positive attitude. He’d lived through a fair share of hardship, and joining the Club felt like another difficult transition. But it didn’t take long for the Club to prove Orlando wrong and give him a sense of belonging unlike anything he’d previously experienced.
The more time he spent at the Grant Woods Branch, the more confident he became. He is known among Club staff and peers as a bright, positive member who is always willing to be a team player. The skills Orlando learned at the Club, such as respect and accountability, quickly translated to him taking additional responsibility to help his mother, who singlehandedly provides for himself and his four siblings.
Orlando is a freshman at Sequoia High School. Outside his Club, Orlando is active in his church’s youth group and plays on his school’s football team. After high school, he dreams of becoming a mechanic specializing in diesel automobiles. He wants to hone his understanding of how these vehicles operate so he can successfully diagnose problems and keep his clients happy.
Q: What’s your favorite quote or saying?
Psalm 23:4 “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” I live by this quote because it gives me the inspiration and confidence I need every day.
Q: If you won $100,000 today, what would you do with your winnings?
If I were to win $100,000 today I would first give the staff at the Grant Woods Club who has made an impact on me some of my winnings because they change my life in the best way possible. The rest of my winnings I would give to my mom because she got me to where I am today, to be able to show my appreciation to her for all she has done for me and that it has not gone unnoticed. I love her with all my heart and to be able to give her something in return would mean the world.
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