Nicole Santa Cruz, Age 15 Goodyear, AZ - "I want to start off by saying, that in the beginning I did not want to attend this class, at all. When I heard I was to be attending I immediately thought “what a waste of my Fridays, when I would rather be with my friends.” Sometimes I was really skeptical on whether to keep attending or just drop out. Many people have come and gone which discouraged me even more on my view on leaving, but with my family that was not an option. As a child I was told over and over to never leave something half way done. My grandmother always told me to never give up no matter how hard or how long it takes. So I stuck it out and I fell in love with it! I yearned more and more to come because they not only talked about how to invest and budget wisely, but more about what the world is and has in store for us. I guess you can say they brought reality to us. In Jeremiah 29:11-13 it says “For I know the plans I have for you. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” With Mr. and Mrs. Dasher I truly felt that they have fulfilled this scripture for me and the rest of the youth that attended this year. I learned so much from spending money to checking tire pressure. I am truly blessed to have such wonderful people in my life to teach me along with my family about all the smarts on how to succeed in life. Because they truly are “Providing Direction for the Next Generation, Affecting Generations to come, and equipping them for Success.” So thank you Mr. and Mrs. Dasher for being there for me and my family and directing me in the way that is the best. Thank You once again and God bless you and your family today and many days to come!"
C. French, Age 14, Goodyear, AZ "When we started this class, I thought it was going to be okay, but it turned out that it was exciting. What we learned was that how to control our behavior, CPR, which was really cool to save someone's life. We learned about gang awareness and the truth about Hip-hop. We learned about health and nutrition, which food is not really good for you and food that is good for you. We learned about personal appearance, how to eat at the dinner table and manners at the dinner table. We learned about obedience and disobedience, how to separate laundry and how to stay organized...This class was very exciting to me...thank you for teaching us these important life skills. I really enjoyed this class."
Jerry F., Age 14, Goodyear, AZ "The things I have learned are amazing! Taking CPR was pretty cool. I'm glad you taught me that...I didn't know you can save someone's life just by mouth to mouth. What I thought was that CPR was used to keep a person alive until help came. Learning the basics of how to deal with money was great. I think you are the only teacher who has actually told what money is all about...In our school, we are learning about personal finance, and how to make your identity, how to read checks, how to read your bank account number on the bottom of the right of your check. I am definitely glad you taught us about mailing. Thank you very much!"
Wyatt F., Age 14, Goodyear, AZ " I learned in this class about responsibility, saving a person, and how to take care of myself. We learned about personal hygiene, and to brush our teeth for 5 minutes and haven't got a cavity since. I learned how to organize my room and clothes. I learned about money and how to pay off a house in 5 years and how to pay off a car in 1 year. Thanks alot for teaching us this wonderful stuff, and thank you for being their for us."
K. Hoffman, Age 15, Goodyear, AZ "As I have participated in TLRC classes I have gained new knowledge as well as expanded and refreshed past learned information. I feel so incredibly blessed to be learning what so many people will never have the change, none the less they take the time to learn. I have learned...how to do laundry without the clothes coming out 7 different colors, to formally set a very nice dining table, ways to improve personal hygiene like body odor, bad breath, dandruff, and overall cleanliness. Management personal finances + staying out of debt. I've learned even more than what I used to, to respect authority and the importance of paying attention. Also to my great pleasure have picked up some useful sayings that I use now and then such as "Organization simply means everything has a place, in 21 days the trends of thought become the chains of habit, procrastination is a convenient excuse instead of a legitimate reason for delay, improvise, adapt, and overcome. Those are some of my favorite among many. Other things such as each lighter foods first (fruits and vegetables) before eating meats to help your digestion, how to perform CPR, how to send certified, express priority, and regular mail, the difference between a credit card and debit card, and the rule of 72, as well as gang awareness and the origination of hip-hop music..."
Basia Mosely, Age: 15, West Covina, CA "Trinity's Resource Learning Center has made a significant impact in my life. When I first heard that I was going to be taking a class on Thursday nights teaching me how to make my life easier by learning some of the essential fundamentals of life, I wasn't exactly thrilled. I told my mom it wasn't anything I would learn in life anyway. My mom kept trying to tell me it would make my life easier if I learned it right now. That first night I walked in there, I was even angrier. I was the only person my age. I was in the class with a much of little kids. I always left with an attitude and I always came in with one. Little by little I forced myself to open my heart and mind to be able to receive what being instilled into my life. Since I've started the class, I've been able to manage my time better, have a better attitude about things, and I have been able to apply some of the skills I learned in this class. Trinity's Learning Resource Center will always be the reason why I have a better understanding of the life ahead of me.
Cheyenne Roberts, Age: 14, Fontana, CA
“I have learned a lot of things from attending my seventh week of class. I’ve been having a lot of fun too. One of the best things I’ve learned so far is how to keep myself organized. I needed a lot of work on that subject. My backpack has been clean and it is a lot easier to find my assignments. I’m still working on keeping my drawers clean and folding my clothes the right way. I think I’m getting use to it. So far, I found that toothpaste has a chemical that can help clean your shoes. I found out that it works very well. The other thing you can use instead of toothpaste is shaving cream…another thing I learned is that I should never throw papers away the teacher passes back to me. If it was an assignment I did not do well on, I can study the problems I got wrong so I can get the answers right on the test. One of the most important things I learned was about teamwork. Each person on a team should have equal importance in the group. If you have a lot of team work, people can achieve many successful things. When there is teamwork, you get things done faster…It’s good to be polite and say thank you when peole do something to help you or something nice for you. You should always use your manners and say please, if you want something. Ladies always go first in everything. You should treat people the way you want to be treated…I also learned my social security number. I found out that I need the number to apply for a job and to go on my college application. The next thing I learned was that practice improves performace and after twenty-one days, the trends of though becomes the chain of habit.”
End of Session Testimony
"From participating in the program at Trinity's Learning Resource Center, I have learned to improve my performance in the classroom. I have learned to make my learning experience easier by asking my teachers questions and approaching them after school if I don't understand the material in their class. By doing this, I let my teachers know that I am interested in learning and I make them aware that I am making an effort in their class. I also learned how to keep my things organized. Even though it was a hard thing to do, I found that every time my things were in order, my assignments were easier to find. When everything is in order, I found things being less stressful and I didn't have to search through a pile of papers for a specific assignment. One other thing I learned was how money works. The Rule of 72 helps you to determine how fast your money will double with the amount of interest you earn. With being in the program I learned ways to keep me out of debt and simple ways to spend money on things that are important. Basically, I learned to plan ahead which makes me think more about the future. I was also taught that it is important to stay healthy. I should drink eight cups of water daily and take vitamins. When your body has enough nutrients, you will have enough energy to perform.
LaShante Ellison, Age: 15, San Bernardino, CA "Before I entered Trinity's Learning Resource Center, I thought I was well prepared for the future that was ahead of me. Although, I went into the class with an open mind, I thought, "What could they possibly teach me that I don't already know?" That all changed when the first class with Mr. Dasher ended. I learned that he would be teaching us things that could not only benefit us financially, but in life threatening situations. We learned things from balancing a checkbook, to how to change a flat tire, to filling out job applications. These are things that adults don't even know how to do, but because of Mr. Dasher and his wife, kids in my generation will be different. We will be educated on things that will not only benefit ourselves, but society, and I am very grateful for the time and effort he has put into this class at Trinity's Learning Resource Center and know that God will continue to bless him in his attempt to better the lives of the future."
Recent Questions Asked of 8-13 year olds:
Before entering Trinity's Life Skills Program, how were you feeling? What did Trinity's Life Skills program do for you or give to you so that you can realize your life goals and live successfully? What do you see yourself doing differently than if you never went through the program? How do you feel now? Can you see your way through?
Shyanne W., Age 8, Waddell, AZ
Before: "Scared. I did not want to go to my class. I was going through problems. Hiperness. I did not understand stuff."
After Enrolling: "They (Trinity) helped me be organized. They helped me be respectful. I can see my way through life. I think this program was really good for me and my sisters"
Sarah W., Age 9, Waddell, AZ
Before: “I was different, not as responsible or independent..."
After Enrolling: "I feel smarter, more skilled, and more independent. I can see my way through. I recommend this to youth age 9-13 so they can learn skills at a young age. It is fun, skillfull..."
Alan M., Age 12, Toleson, AZ
Before: Negative. Life tired (most of the time), and I feel no desire in life (most of the time).
After Enrolling: Taught me to be more positive in what I do each day. I see myself positive in things I do.
David R., Age 12, Litchfield Park, AZ
Before: At first I thought this class was just a waste of my time and I was pretty angry about being signed up for it.
After Enrolling: The class helped me realize what I was going to face in the future and it gave me a better attitude. I see myself more successful and not being affected by other bad influences. Ending the program, I feel glad that I joined TLRC and I would recommend this program to anyone.
C. Clark, Age 9, Buckeye, AZ
Before: I was feeling sad sometimes. Sometimes I felt like I couldn't protect myself from bad people and things. It was just like I didn't know anything.
After Enrolling: It gave me ability. I am now able to tell people, "Hey, I can do that!" If I never went through the program, I'd probably feel almost unable to do a lot of things. I now feel more mature and intelligent. I would recommend Trinity. Trinity is a good program because you learn a lot and it's something you can look forward to each week."
Marshall H, Age 9, Goodyear, AZ - "My desire was to do better in school. It gave me more faith in God. I would strongly recommend it to a few people. I know and I have more faith in God."
Damian L., Age 13, Goodyear, AZ- "I was scared. I got successful in what I was doing. I experience not to be scared and I learned more about God. I feel much better and I am not scared and I am successful because I have confidence."
Antoinette S., Age 13, Buckeye, AZ - "I am very thankful to have this opportunity to be in this class. The three most important things that I learned are how to manage money, use better manners, and how to organize. This class has given me confidence that I'll be more successful in life. I just want to thank you for this opportunity to be in this program."
Melissa M., Age 13, Buckeye, AZ - "Before I started coming to Trinity Life Skills Program. I felt that I wasn't really that focused on my goals and I wasn't doing well in school as I knew I could only because I wasn't putting my best foot forward and the way I did things wasn't the best. TLRC helped me to be more responsible in everything I do. I've also learned to respect people more for the choices they make, but to also guide them to make good choices that will help them succeed. I see myself being more organized and responsible. My faith and relationship with God has grown. I've also helped people with their faith. I can definitely see the change I've made. If someone was considering coming, I would tell them it's worth the time and they will learn things. Thank you for taking time to teach me."
Sabrina S., Age 11, Waddell, AZ - "When I came to Trinity's Life's Skills Program I thought it was going to be boring. I was unsure if I would be adopted or not. My attitude was bad. I disrespected my parents. My desires were to do good. TLRC helped me to be organized, respectful to my parent and organize my clothes, shoes, and my backpack. My goals went up a lot and my life became more successful. This program really helped me to get my grades up higher, respect my parents, and organize my stuff. I feel like I learned a lot in this class. Yes. I can see my way through life. Yes, I would tell youth and young adults." (See Foster/Adopting Parent Recommendation)
Vanessa M., Age 11, Buckeye, AZ - “Before I started coming here, I felt kind of upset with myself. TLRC has helped me a lot. My attitude was horrible. I would always get very angry for the littlest reasons. TLRC has helped me learn to be more responsible. TLRC has helped me to respect others more. I feel that TLRC has really improved my attitude. I feel more responsible. I can see God's path more clearly. I would absolutely recommend TLRC to someone else. I am so glad I have gone to this program. I feel very thankful for God to lead my path here."
David B., Age 13, Surprise, AZ - "Before I cam I felt o.k. about myself, but now I feel better. What TLRC did for me is they helped me to learn how to be more organized. Now I feel more confident with my life. Yes, I would recommend this program to others.
K. Lopez, Age 9, Goodyear, AZ - " I was feeling very excited to be in a place where I can learn things. They told me that I can be positive and that being good is making your life a better place. I learned that everyone can be a friend if they are nice. I feel happy that I don't fight with my brother and I don't get in trouble as much as I used to. I really want it to last forever. I would like to do it again but with more of my cousins. I would tell them that it is going to be a blast for you!"
Rebecca R., Age 10, Litchfield Park, AZ - "Before entering TLRC I was kind of grouchy and I was lazy. I would beg if I wanted something. Sometimes I would get so mad I wouldn't talk to anyone for the rest of the day. Ever since my mom signed me up for TLRC, I have been more responsible and now I'm happy most of the time. Now I realized that if I act better, I will have a better future. If I didn't enter the program I would still be the grouchy lazy girl I was back then. Now I feel grateful, courageous, and responsible. I'm already starting to tell my friends about it. It was awesome! My life is way better than before."
Quenshon Jackson, Age: 13, Colton, CA - “This class has made life a lot easier on me because it shows me how to be respectful to myself and others. I learned to keep myself clean and organized so when someone comes over to visit, they won’t say my room is dirty and stinks. Without it I would probably still get bad grades. It has given me courage and confidence to do what I want to. I learned how to make my bed neater. I also learned that practice improves performance. I learned that it takes five minutes for the fluoride to penetrate the enamel and that teamwork is good. I learned how to do CPR and karate. I feel successful because I learned things that I didn’t used to know and I think I will grow up to be successful. I recommend this class… it is great for people.
Fabricio Velasco, Age: 10, San Bernardino, CA - “At first I didn’t want to come. I was lazy and had a bad personality. I would slack on doing my homework and put all my clothes on the floor and T.V. I got lots of experience through the class like using a snake bit kit. It gave me responsibility and how to get organized. I learned how to iron my clothes and all kinds of stuff. The thing I like is the teamwork lesson, because we had to step on red pads and stay away from the alligator and make sure none of our teammates fall in the water. I love Trinity’s Resource Center a lot. I feel great! It’s a great place for kids and adults to learn how to be prepared.”
Malik Butts, Age: 8, Colton, CA - “When I went to Mr. Dasher’s class, I felt like was okay. I learned about personal hygiene and how to fold my socks. I would recommend this class.
Sharde Mosley, Age 13, West Covina, CA - "Going to Trinity's Learning Resource Center has helped me in many ways by helping me be prepared in life. First, what I think it has helped me greatly in is learning the proper way to clean my room. I think it has helped be me because now my room has become a place for working, doing my homework, and many other things. My room is be come a place for me to do many things besides sleeping. As Brother Carlton says, "When your room is clean it gives you a sense of peace." Second, I think what has also helped me was learning about personal hygiene. I think personal hygiene is important because it is important to be clean. Being clean means taking care of your body, taking showers multiple times a day, brushing your teeth, washing your face, and etc. In conclusion, this class has taught me many things that I can't just write on one page and am grateful for that."
LaKayla Ellison., Age 12, San Bernardino, CA - "Dear Carlton Dasher, Thank you for being amazing. You taught us a lot, from how much does a 37 cent stamp cost (which became a class joke), to conducting preventive maintenance on cars. I personally learned how to be a better person. Now I talk more to my dad and I believe in myself and that I can achieve everything. I really hope the best for you and Mrs. Dasher. I hope the rest of this class and I will still be apart of your class next year. Also the thing I learned was how to set a table, how to write a check, and I learned a lot more...thank you."
