Emotional, Meaningful Day at CCC Statewide Graduation

All Corpsmembers know a thing or two about hard work in the California Conservation Corps. For those who are also working on their high school diploma, the work is even more difficult.

It’s why the annual statewide graduation in Sacramento is so meaningful to the Corpsmembers, their families, and the staff that support them. And 2023 was no exception, as the emotion of crossing the stage will lead to even greater journeys in life.

“I was supposed to graduate high school back in 2017 with all of my friends,” said Corpsmember Issac Rey. “But I dropped out. I let a lot of people down, especially myself.”

After bouncing between jobs, working as a dishwasher and packer, Issac joined the CCC to pursue his love for the outdoors and transform his life. He said, “I knew right away that this was the place for me to be.”

Each day, following ten hours of project work in the field, Issac received two hours of individualized mentorship and completed school assignments with one of the CCC’s partnered charter high schools. Fast forward seven months, and he now has his diploma in hand.

“I just want to make my dad proud and show him that, even though, I made a couple mistakes along the way, there’s a way for me to correct it,” said Issac.

Earning a diploma—and getting paid a monthly stipend while doing so—is just one of the many career building opportunities available in the CCC. Corpsmembers can also take community college courses and gain hands-on training related to careers in firefighting, forestry, culinary arts, and more.

“I’m really interested in becoming a park ranger. Having the diploma and certifications I earned during the year is even better for me. Everything is lining up for me,” said Issac. “I’m walking proof. If I can do it, then you can do it too.”