Building a better future: West Michigan non-profit teaching construction skills [Video]

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — “I was in and out the streets, not making the best decisions in life. I just wanted to try something different, more positive.”

For Darion Boyd that different started here at Next Step of West Michigan.

The non-profit, which is under the umbrella of Mel Trotter Ministries, helps people who are facing some tough times learn construction and manufacturing skills that will mean more than just a paycheck.

“We give students projects here and when they’re able to design something and build something and do it with their hands, there’s a sense of pride,” said Next Step of West Michigan Executive Director David Boult.

And along with that pride, the skills they earn fill a real need in our community.

“They want to actually be in here building and to help our community with our skills gap, right?” explained Boult. “We’ve …