“Yes, you can” is both a personal mantra and an uplifting message Carl lives by. For a young man who has experienced the loss of his father to suicide and living with mental illness, Carl remains positive and grateful. “Saquay and the Clean Sweep program have given me the strength and courage to move out of my safety zone.”

Carl experienced many barriers before he joined the CADS program, a vocational community-based program MYCS individuals take part in. Clean Sweep falls under CADS and has given Carl the chance to get paid for work he enjoys. “I’ve found something I love to do that gives me independence.” Before joining CADS, Carl felt unproductive and confined to life at home. He had accomplished his goal of graduating high school, but felt there was something missing in his life. “I thought of my father during my high school graduation. I could feel his presence. I knew he was with me and I could hear him in my head saying, “Yes! You did it!” And that’s when Carl realized he had to move on and make even greater strides.

“You have to live your own life. And it’s taken me a long time to recognize and act on my potential. For a long time I thought my father’s death was my fault – because of my disability. But then I figured it out. I couldn’t be like him and give up on life. I told myself ‘Yes, you can’.” Since graduating from high school, Carl has mastered every janitorial task Clean Sweep offers, and continues to gain personal independence. With the help of his counselor, Saquay, Carl has also learned money management techniques and other personal skills he uses on a daily basis. “Carl is gaining independence within the community and is learning a lot about himself in the process. He’s a quick learner and enjoys working hard.” On Sundays Carl volunteers at his local parish teaching Sunday School.

Carl draws on his faith, determination and of course, a positive attitude to succeed with his chosen goals. With the help of Saquay and the entire Mon Yough community, Carl has discovered a passion for life. “I’m happy. My mother is happy. My friends and family are happy. What more could I ask for?”