Keenan Robertson

Keenan Robertson, Age 26, Knoxville, Tennessee, Presently Learning to Repair Construction Equipment, Jacobs Creek Job Corps, Bristol, Tennessee:

“It’s been a journey to get where I am today. It was a little rocky at first but things seem to be smoothing out right now. Life experiences, things I’ve been through and that sort of stuff are the things that made life rocky. I’ve been through a little bit of everything man. I had planned to go to the military but that didn’t work out. Wasn’t skinny enough I guess." 

"I’ve been in food service to warehouse jobs, dibbled and dabbled. Then I found out about the job corps. Trying to smooth things out. You only get one chance in life man. This is my chance. I call it a window of opportunity. Get paid a little bit (while training). It’s not much." 

"It’s a journey man… just climbing right now."

Brandon Meade

Brandon Meade, Pipe Fitter; Cleveland, Tennessee:

"Growing up in these mountains has shown me that I can overcome anything that life throws at me... I've been all over America but there's no place more beautiful than our home here in these mountains."

Steve Justice

Steve Justice - Exposition Center Technician; Pikeville, Kentucky.
Steve bases his life on this Anthony Hopkins quote:

"It's none of my business what people say of me, and think of me. I am what I am, and I do what I do. I expect nothing, and accept everything. And it makes life so much easier."

Mark Anthony

Mark Anthony, Artist, Painter, Mother & Owner/Operator Painted Note Studios; Kingsport, Tennessee:

“Always been a gypsy. Started as an army brat which contributed greatly to my wanderlust. Every time I traveled through these mountains, there was a complete peace that came over me. A knowledge of this area calling to me. While living in many a beautiful places all over North America, I never felt settled. Always going somewhere else. The universe set a path for me to be here. And now I am home. There is an energy in these Appalachians. I have never been as creative and as fruitful anywhere else. When you become aware of the serendipity in your life, you further the opportunities of them happening more frequently. It's hard for people to let go of their inhibitions. To, just surf on this wave of life and let the Divine flow happen. Once you do, though, I promise; everything will be right. Will be beautiful! Will be limitless!”