When Omar first came to York Literacy Institute, he had a clear goal: earn his High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma so he could continue his education.
Omar had been preparing to attend college when he discovered that his previous school transcript could not be recovered. Rather than give up on his plans, he decided to earn his HSE diploma. After researching his options, he chose YLI and spent about four months studying science, social studies, and math.
The work wasn’t always easy. Omar was working full-time as a truck driver while attending classes, and his teacher, Laura, sometimes worked with him outside regular class time to help him keep moving forward. Laura describes him as a dedicated student and hard worker who continued even when he felt intimidated by the material.
“Omar is an exceptional student and a fantastic human.”
Laura also saw Omar’s confidence grow as he passed his exams. She noted that rather than focusing on his own success, he used his experience to encourage other students who were working toward the same goal. Laura says, “He never seems to lose hope or his sunny disposition.”
In July, Omar passed his final HSE exam and officially earned his High School Equivalency Diploma. That achievement opened the door to something more.
As a community partner with CommunityAid, YLI was able to recommend Omar for a CommunityAid Foundation scholarship. Omar was selected to receive a $5,000 scholarship through the Scholarship Program Founded by Chip and Judy Horst to help him continue his education.
For Omar, the scholarship was an opportunity he hadn’t expected. He explains, “I’m so grateful to YLI for recommending me for a scholarship. They have helped me from day one. I cannot express enough how much they have helped me and been there for me.”
This fall, Omar has taken another big step: beginning online classes at Liberty University. His long-term goal is to become a prison chaplain, a calling shaped by his own life experiences and his desire to support people facing difficult circumstances.
Omar credits Laura and the YLI staff with helping him believe he could keep going when things became difficult.
“Because of their help, I feel more confident. And because of their recommendation for the scholarship, it has opened the opportunity for me to further my education.”
And for anyone considering coming back to school, Omar has some simple advice: “If you are thinking of going back to school or getting your high school equivalent, I highly recommend YLI. Hands down the best.”
Congratulations, Omar! We are proud to have been one step along the way and excited to see where your education takes you next.
September 25, 2026
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