A Conversation with YouthServe Alumni

One of YouthServe's greatest goals is that youth who enter our programs would become civically engaged, compassionate, and community-minded leaders, and that they would take these skills with them into their adult lives. Our alumni are proof that it works.

The following conversation took place at our 2024 Youth Leadership Council retreat, when we invited four YouthServe alumni to share their experiences and advice with the newest group of youth leaders. Content has been edited and condensed for clarity.

First, an introduction...

Brooklyn Graham is a 2020 graduate of Clay-Chalkville High School, and is now working as a Pharmacy Technician and nursing student at UAB. Brooklyn was a member of Youth Philanthropy Council (YPC) for three years, and helped to organize the inaugural Alabama Youth Alliance Summit.

Marques McKinney also graduated from Clay-Chalkville High School in 2020, before going on to Mercer University. Marques is now a Financial Analyst at Microsoft. He served with YPC and Youth Action Council (YAC) for a total of four years.

Abigail Shepherd is a 2019 graduate of Indian Springs School. She went on to attend Dartmouth College, and is now working as a Scientist at Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory. Abigail participated in YouthServe's Urban Service Camp starting in 7th grade, and served with both YAC and YPC.

James Thornton graduated from Holy Family Cristo Rey High School in 2017. He attended Tennessee State University and is now working as Community Engagement and Outreach Coordinator at BuildUP Community School. James was a member of YAC for three years.

From left to right: Marques, Abigail, Brooklyn, and James.

Now for their conversation...

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