The students in the Youth Impact Program have powerful stories about
how the program changed them. Below is the inspirational story of
Justin Terrell Johnson. There are
many more stories from players about how YIP has been a positive effect in their lives.
This
is Justin Terrell Johnson. In 2006, Justin had practically dropped out
of school - he was absent from school for three straight weeks. He was
involved in drugs and could care less about his dwindling grade point
average. Justin grew up in Los Angeles, just 10 minutes south of the
University of Southern California, but had never stepped foot on campus.
Everything changed for Justin as a first-time participant in the Youth
Impact Program's 2007 class. Like his cohorts, Justin was eager to put
on pads and engage in tackle football, but he had no expectation that
he was about to have an experience and develop relationships that would
change his life forever.
Once in the program, Justin's love for football helped him to stay
focused in the classroom, as he stated: "Crash [a character in the
fiction novel] reminded me of me". Justin excelled in all aspects of
the program, including being recognized as one of the best football
players at the YIP camp. This success carried over into other aspects
of his life. He stayed out of trouble, concentrated on his studies,
maintained a 3.3 grade point average, and graduated from eighth grade
with honors. This year Justin is an incoming freshman at Crenshaw High
School and playing running back for the Junior Varsity football team.
Justin credits much of his success to the Youth Impact Program,
explaining, "The mentors cared about me and tell me that I can follow
my dreams." As a volunteer this year, he wanted to help influence the
new students and continue positive relationships with his mentors.
Justin now has goals and a bright future, and plans to attend the
University of Oregon.
