When CJI began offering recreation nights at a local custody facility Aidan* eagerly joined the games and sports. He was excited to see the volunteers each week and got to know some of them personally.

As Aidan was preparing to go back to the community he asked Bill and a few other volunteers if they would be part of his Circle of Support. Though they helped Aidan with practical things like finding housing and a job, what Aidan needed most was friends. Currently hr marts his Circle once per week.

“Aidan has not had too much success in terms of school yet he has to be one of the most hardworking youth I have ever met in my life.” Says Bill. Aidan works 40+ hours a week as a roofer and even supervises crews with men much older than himself. One day he hopes to start his own business.

But his hard work isn’t just about making money- Aidan also uses his skills to give back. Full of compassion, when Aidan heard that a neighbour couldn’t afford a new roof, he arranged for shingles to be donated to her and did the job for free!

“Aidan is one of the few youth that I know who puts others first before his own concerns,” says Bill. He adds, “I am very proud of his accomplishments.”

*name changed