On September 25, students in Fresno Mission’s Searcy program were promoted to the next phase of their journey, receiving certificates that mark a major milestone in their growth. The impact was powerful because these certificates represent more than attendance, they represent commitment, growth and real life change after a time where anything different felt impossible.
The room was full of family. In some cases, three generations sat side by side, cheering on a loved one who has worked hard to get here.
“Promotion is an indicator of progress,” Pablo Davalos, Director of Programs at the Searcy Center, told the students. “There are times you’re going to be tempted to look back. But God instructed His people to remember where He pulled them out of.”
Pablo spoke openly about his own past, including a season of intense pressure. He chose to make it right because he wanted his grandchildren to look up to him. Today, he stays mindful of what he feeds into himself and remembers where God brought him from. When the old life calls, his answer is simple: “No thanks, I’m good.”
As students prepare to search for jobs, Pablo pointed them to Luke 16:10: “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.” His encouragement was to stay faithful in the small things, because that is how God prepares us. “If you remain faithful in the little things, the rest will come.”
He closed with Philippians 3:13–14, reminding students to forget what lies behind and press toward what is ahead.
“When we stand with Christ Jesus, we can fear nothing,”
he said. “Leave from here and change. You are now ambassadors for Christ. You have rights in His kingdom. Don’t forget that, because that is what is going to keep you grounded.”
The students shared their own encouragement, too:
“I learned to surrender, because it was always my way,” said Wyatt Dazier. “Jesus has really changed my life and given me something to love and live for. I have brothers in Christ, and we grow stronger together.”
“God has given me purpose,” said Daniel Brieske. “Even when I wasn’t a believer, I look back and see Him there in those moments. Stick with it, guys. We’ve got this.”
Layton Waters said his Faith and Finances class helped him learn to give all his desires to the Lord. “He has given me a strong foundation and shown me who I need to be in Him…
Thank you, Fresno Mission, for my relationship with the Father.”
“I’ve learned to let go and let God like never before,” said Katelyn Slater. “The Genesis class helped me get through pain and trauma and has helped me heal. He has changed me from the inside out, and now I’m the person I’m meant to be. Nobody said this is easy, but it’s going to be worth it.”
“Stick with it and draw close to the lord. You’re not going to get a chance like this again.” said Miguel Cortez.
At Fresno Mission, our Career Pathways programs are about more than skills.
They’re about restoring confidence, creating opportunity and helping individuals step into a brighter future. We’re so proud of every person who earned this milestone.
Because of supporters like you, Wyatt has brothers who walk beside him. Katlyn is healing from pain she once carried alone. Daniel has found purpose, and Layton has a foundation to build his future on. Families who once worried are now in the room cheering. That is what your generosity makes possible.
These students still have road ahead of them, and your support helps carry them all the way to graduation and into steady work.
