Alumni Stories

The Speed of Trust Program Stories 2024

Woodland High School February 2024

The first group to learn from ALMS Speed of Trust. Listen to these ten students first experiences with the program, and what they have learned about trust.

Pioneer High School March 2024

A new group of ten young people, who shared what they learned about trust. Listen to their experiences and stories, and prepare to hear many more soon, as ALMS teaches more youth the importance of trust.

Ally Is Referred To Job Corps (2023)

Ally Finds Success (2024)

Carlos Perez talks about ALMS.

Diana is a 4-year alumna of ALMS, and is serving during the COVID crisis.

"I started ALMS 4 years ago, and it has given me the confidence and skills to speak in front of a crowd of people, and assisted me in getting my first job. ALMS has also given me some of my closest friends, and I will always remember my mentors for how much they cared about me!"

- Ed

Mercedes is a 5-year alumna of ALMS, and was a student participant in our Pilot Program.

Meet Rauhiyah, a student of ALMS visiting from Tanzania.

More Alumni Stories

"The most beneficial part of this program is that it has helped me to realize my strengths and weaknesses, and taught me how to speak and act more articulately. I loved the 'Job Interview' and 'Leadership' sessions because of the confidence they instilled in me. I feel that I am better prepared in how to dress, keep calm, and conduct myself for a job interview. I feel more comfortable being around and interacting with others. I now also recognize that I’m not the only one that has problems in these areas. I never felt adequate before, but I’ve met new people and learned more about the things I have struggled with. I love everything about the program – all the lessons, the people I've met, everything! My only regret is having missed any of the lessons at all! I recommend ALMS because it prepares you for life in so many different ways."


"I liked learning about realistic scenarios in life and how to handle them. My favorite session was one in which one of my peers taught the class; I was inspired - I want to learn how to teach a class too! I really enjoyed learning how to present myself, and to be enthusiastic and positive in the things I do. I feel more content in myself, and see other people in a more positive way as well! We are all so different, and yet everyone goes through struggles in life. Session 9 was my other favorite session; I had a blast learning more about public speaking, leadership qualities, etc. And, the ALMS staff couldn't be more supportive, always answering questions and encouraging a positive outlook on life. I recommend ALMS because it reassures you in approaching life with confidence."

"ALMS taught me how to perform in a professional setting. The program was essential in preparing for life in the workforce, and how to handle situations at work and with coworkers. My favorite overall was the 'Perceptions' session, specifically how it teaches that our perceptions show out in and effect our behavior. Though, regarding job skills, I would really like to repeat the 'Job Interview' session. I feel the skills I learned from it have made me more mature and focused. The ALMS staff are incredible because they made me feel welcomed, safe, and heard - there wasn't a question I felt I couldn't ask. They made all their participants feel more confident, and better prepared us all to consider and discuss our futures. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be in ALMS and to get to know the wonderful people I can count on!"


"My favorite session was 'Dress for Success'. Through the session, I was able to both learn more about myself, as well as how to get through a job interview. I am particularly grateful for the job interview training because it helped me land a promotion at work! It also helped me with my job before the promotion, teaching me how to properly dress and converse with coworkers and supervisors professionally. The program has taught me how to stay collected mentally, and reminds me that nothing is more important when it comes down to my future. I love working with ALMS because they were there when I needed them most, guiding me through the interview at each step. I would recommend ALMS to everyone because I believe it really is an eye-opening experience."


"The sessions better prepared me for the workplace, and how to work alongside others. The ALMS staff helped me find my interests, and motivated me to achieve beyond my limitations. My favorite class was Session 9, where we talked about Leadership, Respect, Character, and Entitlement. I was very motivated by the ethical concepts presented in these sessions, and enjoyed learning about personal responsibility, humility, interpersonal trust, and respect."

What Mentors and Parents are Saying

Services are Exceptional

“This is one of the best organizations I have ever worked with. The services they provide to the students are exceptional, and all of the staff are friendly and enthusiastic. The results they achieve really speak to the quality of the program.”

— Trevor B., Volunteer

Thank you is not enough

"You all get a thumbs-up from me! And thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the work and time you have taken on my son. I can see a difference in him already. Before he wouldn’t get up in front of family and talk. Now he’s getting up in front of a crowded room and speaking. He has confidence that I’ve been trying to pull out of him for years. Thank you is not enough to express my feelings but... Thank you."

— John S., Student Parent

The following is a survey completed by one of our volunteers, a retired teacher, about their first experience in one of our job readiness courses:

What is the strength of the program?

"It encourages young people to reach higher, and challenges them to pay attention to small details."

What do we need more of in the program?

"Students, Volunteers, and community participation."

What is working well?

"Making connections to new partners in various businesses, particularly local businesses and agencies."

What do the kids really love?

"The small group discussions, and the love and acceptance they receive from the staff."

What is a weakness in the program? 

"It needs more funding."

Additional Comment

"I’m amazed at what the folks here at ALMS have been able to accomplish in a short time."