Green Core Training at KC Can Compost

For Ra'Shid Jackson, joining the Green Core Training program was more than an opportunity. It was part of a personal and spiritual journey.
 
“I was already on a path of finding myself,” he said.
 
That path led him to the public library, where he spent time researching and exploring new possibilities for his future. While there, he often noticed a nearby classroom where students seemed to be learning about the environment. One day, a drip irrigation diagram appeared on the presentation screen. It caught his attention and sparked a deeper curiosity.
 
“I’ve always cared about the environment…about pollution, clean energy, natural power sources,” Ra’Shid said. “I’ve felt called to this work all my life.”
 
That curiosity turned into connection. After asking students questions and eventually meeting Instructor Bruce Holloway, Ra'Shid knew he had found something meaningful.
Throughout the program, Ra'Shid found that every lesson deepened his awareness and sense of purpose.
 
“Each module was important. They were like stair steps, one led to the next,” he said. “It helped me grow, not just with knowledge, but with my purpose. The more I learned, the more I wanted to help people. And those who help others, they get help in return. That’s something this program reminded me.”
One topic that especially struck him was how deeply environmental issues affect human health.
 
“When we got into the part about how emissions and pesticides enter our bodies, it really hit me,” he said. “We’re slowly poisoning ourselves. But we can do better, together, if we’re willing to make a change.”
 
His passion and seriousness didn’t go unnoticed.
 
“You could see the care that he put into the class,” said instructor Eric Rambo. “You could tell that the material was affecting him, that he wants to make changes.” 

Instructor Holloway added, “This seriousness that we saw in Ra’Shid, we see in a lot of Green Core Training students.”
 
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With graduation behind him, Ra'Shid continues to grow, driven by a desire to share what he’s learned with others, including his grandchildren.
 
“They have green thumbs too,” he smiled. “I’m excited to teach them what I’ve learned.” 

Every time you donate or compost with KC Can Compost, you help cover tuition, materials, and vital support for students like Ra’Shid. Whether you give $5 or $500, you’re helping neighbors build brighter futures in the green industry, and moving Kansas City toward a more equitable, sustainable future.