How Young Visionaries in San Bernardino is helping locals obtain security guard licenses
SAN BERNARDINO CA Jan 10 2018 – The most worn step on the stairwell of success is the first, says Ken White, a U.S. Air Force veteran and security expert who since 1991 has helped myriad young adults take that initial step.
“The 10th, though,” White continues, “the step that leads to the highest floor, that’s pristine, clean because so few people reach it.”
As director of Sterling Enterprise, a security guard service in Redlands that trains men and women for entry-level positions, White sees raw, untapped potential in area youth. He said Monday, Jan. 8, he often asks himself where many will be in five, 10 years.
He and Terrance Stone, executive director of the San Bernardino nonprofit Young Visionaries, hope a free academy they’re hosting for young adults interested in obtaining security guard licenses and other professional skills spurs them to ascend that stairwell of success.
“We’re helping people in the community get back on their feet,” Stone said. “People in their 20s, 30s and 40s who don’t know how to fill out a job application, don’t understand what a reference is. Simple things we think should be common sense.”
At an orientation Monday, White – a quick-witted former police officer – made clear the academy isn’t a one-off. A couple dozen in attendance hoping to receive their guard cards after sitting through a presentation or two left shortly thereafter.
About 60 remained.
The collaborative’s four-week academy will prepare men and women for security work; a time commitment, sure, White said, but an investment that would lead to a job, a steady income and a nugget for a resume.
“It’s not just about the security work,” White said. “We’re teaching life skills these individuals wouldn’t otherwise get. We all have something to contribute to society. We’re trying to wake these individuals up, make them aware of their surroundings and what they have to offer.”
While White and his associates handle the job training, Young Visionaries’ workforce development team will handle resume building, interview prep and work readiness. Also assisting will be representatives from Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County and Youth Action Project.
“A lot of people don’t know their own strengths or what they bring to the table,” said Lisa Harper, of Young Visionaries. “We want to frame their skills to make them more marketable and then find jobs fitting of their strengths.”
The academy will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. five days a week at Community Action Partnership’s South Tippecanoe Avenue headquarters.
Those who finish the four-week apprenticeship will receive their guard cards and accompany White on the aforementioned, all-important first step.
“My step is a little worn,” White said, “but it’s OK. I’m trying to get these individuals life experience.”
