Driven-by-Hope-Lifted-by-Community.php

Driven by Hope, Lifted by Community

• Students
• 07/01/2026

When Jordan Turner started the RAISE program at Rock Valley College, he never imagined the journey ahead would test his strength, spark new friendships, and reveal a resilience that would inspire everyone around him.

 

RAISE (Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity) is a year-long program at RVC that helps students build career skills, life skills, and connections on campus.

For Jordan however, his time at RVC wasn’t without obstacles. During a brutally cold winter, he faced the harsh reality of homelessness.

In October, staff learned that Jordan was at risk of losing his temporary housing. Despite everyone’s efforts, including those of RVC’s housing liaison, Jordan became homeless in December. The Disability Support Services team and several caring staff members quickly  stepped in to help providing boots, warm clothes, food, and even Christmas presents. “When one door closed, Kara the RAISE coordinator pried open a window,” recalls instructor Shamra Ashman. “Through everything, Jordan stayed committed to the program, kept working hard, and never lost his sense of humor.”

That sense of humor and determination stood out even in the classroom. From his first days, Jordan was quiet and shy, sitting in the back of the class. But he quickly stood out always the first with an answer in math, often before anyone else finished with their calculators. As the year went on, he grew more confident, made friends, and kept his classmates laughing with his quick wit and love for Funyons.

Through all the uncertainty, Jordan’s biggest concern was never about himself it was about missing school. His dedication paid off: Jordan was accepted into RAMP’s competitive Project SEARCH program, one of only 13 students from the region chosen for this unique career preparation opportunity.

“Graduating from the RAISE program is really special for me. I’ve loved that program so much, and always looked forward to every Tuesday and Thursday to go to RVC. I love being challenged to do hard things...I have made some amazing friends and met some wonderful people,” Jordan shares. “What I’m most looking forward to with Project SEARCH is doing different jobs I’ve never done before, gaining new skills, and meeting more people.”

Jordan’s story is not just about overcoming hardship it’s about character. Bright, creative, thoughtful, and kind, he has supported classmates even while facing his own struggles. “I’ve also had some really hard times through the years,” Jordan admits. “I was really depressed and hopeless about a lot, like being isolated at home. I eventually started getting into manifestation and motivational videos. Those were amazing to watch during those hard times, and I still watch them every night. I’m so thankful for the life I have now and the friends I’ve made along the way.”

His achievements extend beyond the classroom. He recently won a gold medal in softball pitching and a silver medal in the 50-meter track at the Special Olympics and he’s not done yet.

“Next, I’ll be competing in the Illinois State Special Olympics with the goal of getting another gold medal.”

When asked what advice he’d give others, Jordan’s words are simple and inspiring: “If I had to give any advice or encouragement to anyone it would be to think about the good in their life and not just the bad. To really get detailed in what they want from life, speak it into existence, get creative with manifesting, and just don’t give up on the life they want.”

Jordan Turner’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, community, and hope. The RVC family is proud to have been part of his story and will be cheering him on as he continues to inspire others.

“Jordan is unforgettable. The difference in his confidence from the first day to the last is incredible. It’s been a privilege to watch him grow.”

Shamra Ashman, RAISE instructor