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We're proud to share that we've been recognized as District 6 Community Heroes by Councilmember Michael Mulchay. This recognition reflects the incredible work our corpsmembers are doing every day to strengthen neighborhoods across San José. From cleaning local waterways to maintaining public trails, corpsmembers are leading hands-on projects that not only improve our environment but also build skills for a climate- resilient workforce. In just the past month, corpsmembers dedicated more than 5,000 hours to revitalizing Guadalupe River Park, enhancing public spaces that thousands of residents rely on for recreation, connection, and well-being. This award belongs to our corpsmembers. Their dedication, teamwork, and commitment to service create real, visible impact in our community. We're grateful for the public investment that makes this work possible and for the leaders who believe in the power of young people to drive meaningful change.

Brenda was with the Corps for about a year and a half. During her time here, she experience a lot of personal and professional growth. Hear more about Brenda's journey in the video below. With a long commute from Gilroy and no car, she decided moving into our Tiny Home program would provide the stability she needed to stay focused and build independence. With support from staff and supervisors, Brenda stepped outside her comfort zone and became more confident in her abilities "I've always loved working with animals, being around animals. That's something I've always wanted to do." Brenda is now working as an Animal Care Attendant for the City of San José. In this position, she will be responsible for feeding, cleaning, and caring for animals. We're proud of Brenda's journey and thrilled to see her step into a career that aligns with her passion! Brenda at her new job. "I do something different every day. Today I was working with cats. I'm enjoying it so much!"

Before joining the Corps, Jason felt stuck working in fast food, unmotivated, and burnt out. “I didn’t have any motivation,” he said. “Working at the Corps, I wake up every day ready to go to work. I have the drive to make a change in my community.” Since joining in August 2025, Jason has enjoyed being out in the field, learning how to use new tools, and stepping outside his comfort zone. He earned his chainsaw certification and is currently enrolled at San José City College, studying Construction Technology. “It feels good going to work every day at a place that helps me grow and earn certifications that open opportunities for future jobs.” Jason's story is just one example of what's possible when young adults are given the chance to learn, grow, and lead. You can help more corpsmembers like Jason build brighter futures and support the next generation.

As a single parent, Hector was looking for an opportunity to complete his high school education and advance his career to support his daughter. Hector found that opportunity at the San Jose Conservation Corps and Charter School in 2018, where he was able to earn a stable income, gain job skills, and attend school. Hector found the support and flexibility that the Corps offered helped him to not feel overwhelmed, and played a big part in ensuring his success. As a corpsmember, Hector supported our recycling efforts, which provided him with valuable professional and personal growth that he was able to apply to future careers. Hector went on to gain further job experience working in our emergency shelter operations during the Covid-19 pandemic. Hector reflects that he “really enjoyed the experience,” and “being able to give back to the community and help out others.” More of Hector’s highlights from working at the Corps include his AmeriCorps Education Award, volunteering, obtaining certifications, and being able to network, which led him to his next job at HomeFirst as a Resident Coordinator. From there, he was able to work as a Case Manager at Bill Wilson Center, during which time he housed young adults. Hector was motivated to share his experience with other young adults and encouraged them to apply to the Corps. Hector later returned to HomeFirst as a Case Manager to house veterans. These job experiences allowed Hector to further expand the connection he had built with our community as a corpsmember at the Corps, and the ability to leave a direct positive impact. In addition, Hector found that these experiences helped him on a very personal level, as he was able to almost double his income in just three years. “That really helped me a lot, being able to support my daughter and save money for retirement.” Hector enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he is currently serving as an Aviation Operations Specialist. Hector shares, “I never really imagined being here, you know, serving in the Marines. I’ve grown so much in the past 6-7 years. I’m very, very proud of myself.” Hector recommends the Corps to young adults in need of a high school diploma or job experience, stating, “I would definitely recommend the Corps to anyone who has fallen behind in school or doesn’t have enough credits to graduate. If you attend the San Jose Conservation Corps, you get so much experience, and working at a non-profit, working with your community, that’s really going to help you stand out from others.” Hector’s advice for incoming corpsmembers is to take advantage of any opportunities that come their way. “Take advantage of the job opportunities. Get that scholarship. Do what you’re passionate about.” One of Hector’s many accomplishments from his time at the Corps is earning scholarships and his high school diploma, which played an instrumental role in opening doors to new opportunities. “Knowing about the Corps really helped a lot, because I was able to go back to school and obtain a full-time job. So I’m very proud of that, being able to be a single dad and have that flexibility to go work and go to school. It made a lot of things possible.” Hector adds, “I feel like I’ve done a lot for the community and for myself. And you know, being in the Marine Corps is just the beginning.” Hector’s goal after serving the U.S. Marines is to earn a Masters in Social Work. He is currently in the process of completing his Associates degree in Child and Adolescent Development. Hector envisions himself as a case manager with the Department of Veterans Affairs in the future, which will allow him to continue connecting with our community and leaving a positive impact.

Every corpsmember journey is different and filled with challenges, growth, and transformation. Get an inside look at the unique journey corpsmembers experience at the Corps! The Corpsmember Journey at the San Jose Conservation Corps + Charter School is more than just a year-long program, it’s an opportunity for exploration, growth, and discovery. From the first week of orientation, corpsmembers are introduced to a variety of trainings, workshops, and daily tasks that help them learn new skills and explore potential career paths. For many young adults, the corps is a place to make connections and gain hands-on experience in fields they might not have considered before. Corpsmembers earn industry-recognized certifications, participate in career readiness workshops, and gain valuable skills that extend far beyond their time at the corps. The job training program isn’t just about work, it’s about growth, accountability, and self-discovery. Corpsmembers reflect on their goals, develop professionally, and build confidence while contributing to our communities. From beautifying local parks to working alongside peers and supervisors, each experience helps prepare corpsmembers for future opportunities. Whether it’s pursuing further education, earning professional certifications, or landing seasonal and permanent positions, the skills and relationships built during their journey continue to open doors long after their time at the corps ends. Full video: https://youtu.be/wQZVVi8k4EU