Never underestimate the power of second chances.

Gerardo “Jerry” Torres was stuck in a job he wan’t passionate about. As a recent high school graduate with a growing interest in cars, he decided to enroll in City of Refuge’s NAPA Automotive Technician program thanks to a friend’s recommendation. 

But things didn’t go as planned. “I wasn’t sure it was for me,” Jerry said. He started skipping class. Unfortunately, because of attendance issues, Jerry was removed from the program. 

“It really sucked,” he said. 

A few weeks later, Jerry got a call. The course instructors had seen potential in Jerry, so they offered him a second chance to try again. He jumped at the opportunity. 

The second time through, Jerry passed the course with flying colors. Not only that, he accomplished the rare feat of earning every certification offered through the program. 

“At the end of the day, I’m working on cars, and that’s really what I enjoy.” 

At graduation, Jerry received the Chuck Langston Excellence Award in honor of the late COR body shop manager. “I felt really honored,” he said. “I have it on my wall now.” 

After graduation, Jerry got a fantastic job at Nalley Toyota in Union City. “I like it,” he said. “It’s definitely a lot of work. At the end of the day, I’m working on cars, and that’s really what I enjoy.” 

He hopes to one day become a Master Technician, the top certification in his field. 

When asked what he would say to a City of Refuge supporter, Jerry had this to say: 

“You’re doing such a service to all the people who are looking for a job and want to get into this career field.” 

We couldn’t be prouder of Jerry and all his hard work!

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