Colton's story

August 10, 2009

Everything was going fine for Colton. He was doing well in high school, was well-liked and had good friends. But halfway through grade 11, the bullying started. "I wasn't used to that. It was overwhelming," says Colton. "It was Internet and text-messaging harassment all the time. I was stubborn then and I didn't want to talk to my friends and family about it. I felt alone in making decisions and problem solving." The stress became too much and Colton dropped out of school.

Still, Colton had no intention of putting his life on hold. "I was walking down Front Street [in downtown Strathroy] one day looking for a job," Colton recalls. "I noticed Next Wave and went to check out their hours. As soon as I walked in, I started getting the help I wanted. I came back every day and got support with job searching and other life skills."

Next Wave Youth Centre is a program of Youth Opportunities Unlimited, a United Way funded organization. United Way and Youth Opportunities Unlimited worked to mobilize community partners and address Strathroy's need for a local, safe space where young people could access employment and educational resources and support for other challenges they may face.

And support is exactly what Colton received. Staff worked with Colton from the moment he first walked in the door. He was helped to enroll in an alternative education program to complete his grade 11 credits and build a resume. Colton interviewed for a job placement at Next Wave's cafe. "I got the job," he beams, "probably because I have an amazing oatmeal cookie recipe."

"Colton might not see this in himself but his self-esteem has really blossomed," says Sonya Gill, a Next Wave staff member who worked closely with Colton. "He's a different, happier young man than the Colton who came here after he dropped out. He's going to do well."

Now, Colton is eager to focus on his education and complete his grade 12. "Next Wave changed me and gave me opportunities to be a better person," he says. Colton has also found a new passion. He began teaching guitar lessons at Next Wave and is serious about his band Igneous. Colton is the band's songwriter and lead vocalist.

Looking back on the past year, Colton admits he didn't expect all the success he's found. "I was just looking for a job, but without everything they helped me with I don't know where I'd be. Now, I'm really excited about my future."



Preparing children and youth for future success is one of United Way of London & Middlesex's priority areas. Learn more.