So.......... for a quite a while I've felt the need to 'give back'. As in; personally, my work experiences, automotive knowledge and skills, life's ups and downs to the younger set.
My belief is that I have been called at least in part to do these things. Currently the 'crop' has been from our non-denominational church. There are some young people there that are interested in cars, Hot Rods, muscle cars, etc - believe it or not.
I invite them to my home, my garage and ask them what is it they would like to learn? What are ( if any) burning questions. I have them make a short list on paper and we share those questions between each other as a learning tool and to see where they are.
My garage is a 3 car, having all the amenities that a professional / commercial shop would have but for a lift. In it sits: our 85 Targa, our Rat Rod project that is the current money maker, a '69 Caddy hearse in the rear, vintage JD 430 lawn tractor that needs some love, motorcycles, etc. In other words, if you are an adolescent / teenager - it's Disneyland - or should be.
As an added 'bonus' I tell them it's like going to college when they come here. College costs.........but - I will share everything I know, my home, my garage, tools, everything to help them. In addition - I do pay them, not a lot, but at the end of every day - something as I think it's important there is some cabbage in their pocket for work done.
How it works: I have them help me and I direct them, show them what needs completed on a particular project which could be any of the above. I have them evaluate what is the issue, the resolve, let them take over. I showed them how to use impact tools, all types of air powered tools, what / the difference in metric vs SAE.
Overall, I try to be light hearted as that's my nature, make it fun and interesting to them and also a genuine learning experience.
BUT - I am very frustrated by all of it 6 months in
A)First guy; 19, came from a broken home, no dad lasted just 2 days. Made excuses why he could'nt come 'to work'
B) Second guy never shows, responds to texts
C) Third pair - brothers - 12 / 15 come from a very good environment, have good character, very good kids.............except...........
Everything's too hard, too complicated, they can't do it, it's too hot, how long will this take............can we have some extra water, can we pet your dog.......
I'm very frustrated, especially after this past Saturday as they clearly weren't into it. They DO like hanging out with me (their words)
Any advice? I'm getting nothing done, they're half into it currently at best, I'm not sure if I'm going to continue. As a matter of fact I'm taking a break for the next few Saturdays.................................
I know its for them, sacrifice for me.............I get that. It seems to me though no one really wants to learn by doing.