AmeriCorps and Job Corps Changing Lives

Ulysses Harris (r)

Ulysses Harris has a quiet, somewhat humble demeanor. Despite that, he shows an attitude of assuredness. What is most impressive about Mr. Harris is that, he “Models, Mentors and Monitors.”

He Models by following the “Peer Normative Culture” of Job Corps. He dresses appropriately. He follows the guidelines of Academic and Trade completion goals. He responds appropriately to re-direction. Most importantly, he sets goals for himself. He shows initiative. Perhaps that is why, he was chosen for on-campus Leadership. Mr. Harris served as, The Chief Justice on the Leadership Council.  This is a position, which demands trust and mature judgment. Upon speaking with Mr. Harris, I learned that he not only had short-term, but long term-goals. During our conversations, Mr. Harris explained that he wanted to remain in the area. He was known as the most capable Barber on campus. “If you want your hair cut, Ulysses is the man” was the word on campus.

As I got to know Ulysses, I also got to know his long-term plans.  “I want to go to Barber School and open my own Barber Shop.”  Not long after learning of Mr. Harris’ desire, Little Rock Job Corps partnered with Odle Management, to put on the first ever all Job Corps, Job Fair in Arkansas. Mr. Harris and many of his Little Rock Leadership Peers, assisted with the administration of the Fair. I noticed that AmeriCorps was a vender at the Fair. I knew Jackie Stubblefield, the (Disability/Promise Fellow Coordinator from AmeriCorps Division of Volunteerism) who was working the booth, from my term of service in AmeriCorps. I introduced Mr. Harris to Ms. Stubblefield and explained, I thought he might be right for the program. Shortly after that Little Rock Job Corps had its own Job Fair. I telephoned Jackie and asked, if she would attended as a vender and allow our students to learn about AmeriCorps’ opportunities. Due to scheduling conflicts, she could not attend but sent another representative in her place. After a series of interviews, meetings and a ton of paperwork, Mr. Harris met his MAAC 10 Goal by becoming an AmeriCorps Service Volunteer. While serving in AmeriCorps, Mr. Harris, will receive a Living Stipend; Health Benefits and after service an Education Award, to pay to receive that Advanced Training in Barber College.

Mr. Harris serves as in a local area school, working with “At Risk” youth in the area. I asked him about his service recently. “What do you do, are you class room assistant?” I asked. “I do that some times, but I also have my own class room.” He answered. AmeriCorps and Job Corps changing lives…