In ALMS — I Grew in Confidence, Competence, and Character
By Matthew Borrelli
In 2022, while attending community college, I struggled to find a sense of belonging and purpose. I struggled with self-hatred and questioned my future. I kept many of these feelings to myself because I didn’t know how to express them, and I believed no one would try to understand me or dismiss my feelings as stupid. That was before being introduced to All Leaders Must Serve (ALMS).
I started attending the ALMS weekly Toastmasters Club and movie nights, and was eventually allowed to be a student intern, which would change the course of my life. My role included assisting Jayne Williams, Executive Director, with various tasks and participating in and teaching the Job Readiness program. At first, I struggled to focus, but rather than seeing my weaknesses as a liability, Jayne would meet with me individually to help me recognize my strengths, build on them, and improve in my areas of weakness. Her caring attitude and generous patience showed me what ALMS was all about. This support and mentorship made me feel more confident and capable. This opportunity was not just a job, but a time to grow and be a better me. Jayne worked closely with me to help me through that improvement process. I grew in my confidence, competence, and character. I participated in various Job Readiness classes, led sessions, and spoke on behalf of ALMS at a few community meetings. I also provided recommendations and feedback on the newly written ALMS Trust series.
The ALMS programs and internship helped me recognize my strengths and passion for helping others. The joy of helping other young people who are, or were, in a situation similar to mine fueled an excitement unlike anything I had ever felt. It gave me a sense of purpose, confidence, and belonging, and I watched high school students in the program experience those same feelings, which gave me the confidence to go to college.
I am now a senior at Chico State and hold a cabinet role in the Chico State Neurodiversity and Disability Club. I also travel and speak on behalf of Neurodivergent students at educational conferences. I continue to use the skills and confidence that ALMS built in me to give back to my community, and I know my future will be bright!
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This program works! It gives hope and let's us know that
ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!
