Al-Maceh, 19 years old, NJ

Al-Maceh is in a powerful stage of transition and self-building. He is attending community college full-time; he’s committed to completing his program and setting a strong foundation for his future. He has a part-time job that he shows up for daily, and he’s learning discipline, responsibility, and financial independence. He is focused on saving, he’s working toward buying an older car, building a solid savings account, and preparing for his first apartment. He is living in a group home until 21, he’s using this time to grow, stabilize, and prepare for the next chapter with intention. He prioritizes his emotional well-being, understanding that success starts with taking care of himself. Al-Maceh continues his involvement in church and service, which keeps him grounded, supported, and connected. He manages to balance school, work, and personal goals with impressive consistency. He keeps his eyes on long-term goals, even when the journey requires patience. He manages his time, money, and commitments with maturity beyond his years. He continues moving forward despite challenges, always striving to better himself. Al-Maceh's faith, routines, and self-awareness help him stay centered and steady. Al-Maceh is a young man in the midst of building his future with intention, strength, and quiet determination. At 19, he is already showing the discipline and maturity of someone who understands the value of hard work and long-term planning. He is carving out a path for himself, completing school, saving for independence, nurturing his mental health, and staying rooted in community and faith. His journey is one of growth, resilience, and purpose. What makes him truly special is the way he moves through life with focus and humility. He doesn’t need to be loud to make an impact; his dedication, consistency, and heart speak for him. He is becoming the man he envisions step by step, day by day, and his future is bright because he is building it with intention and strength. Al-Maceh carries a grounded, steady energy, focused, mature, and deeply intentional about the life he’s building. He is thoughtful and self-aware, always reflecting on where he is and where he wants to go next. Al-Maceh's personality blends quiet determination with a calm, approachable presence, making him someone others naturally trust and respect. Even in busy seasons, he maintains a sense of inner strength and purpose that sets him apart in school, at work, and in his community. Though his schedule is full, he finds comfort in being a homebody, enjoying peaceful downtime after long days of classes and work. He values meaningful routines, whether it’s studying, budgeting, or planning for his future. He participates in service at his church three times a week, giving back and staying connected to something bigger than himself. He appreciates moments of rest, reflection, and personal growth, especially as he works on maintaining his mental health.

Wishes submitted by:

NJ DCFS - Essex County