I first met Zuber when he was a middle school participant in our Saturday programs.  He was invited to come to ROCK by some of his friends who were long-term participants in the program.  Zuber never really seemed to be the trouble-maker type, however, he wasn’t motivated, did not excel in school and I always had a difficult time connecting with him.  The years went by and while he continued to be involved with ROCK, I wasn’t sure what his future held.  And then, during the Summer of 2008 something special happened. 

Zuber and four other high school boys were invited to go on a backcountry, backpacking trip with myself and 4 other adult volunteers.  I knew the trip would be a great experience, but I really had no idea what was in store.  Over the course of a few days, backpacking through Yosemite became increasingly challenging.  Our backpacks were heavy, the weather was hot and the mountains were steep.  I noticed Zuber never complained and really encouraged the others to persevere.  Before my eyes, a leader was emerging as his confidence increased with every step. 

During the trip, I got to know Zuber.  He kept asking questions about what it meant to go to college and I challenged him with questions about what it meant to be a responsible adult.  Needless to say, we bonded and I could see his new found maturity after conquering such a difficult trip.  Upon returning from Yosemite, I noticed a major change in Zuber�s responsibility at home as well as his desire to excel in school so that he could get into a good college (at the time, his first choice was UC Davis, which is my alma mater). 

Today, Zuber is a senior in high school and continues to impress me with his academic performance, his care for his family and his increased motivation to succeed in life.

Curt Yagi
Executive Director
Real Options for City Kids