06/08/2026
PROJECT L.I.V.E. CELEBRATES AN INCREDIBLE YEAR IN THE TWIN CITIES
What better way to celebrate an amazing school year than by putting everything we've learned into practice?
Over three days and two nights, Project L.I.V.E. students traveled to the Twin Cities for our annual end-of-the-year trip. While the memories and fun were unforgettable, this experience was much more than a vacation. It was an opportunity for our students to demonstrate the independence, self-advocacy, communication, problem-solving, money management, social skills, community safety, and decision-making abilities they have worked so hard to develop throughout the year.
This trip was especially meaningful as we celebrated two major milestones: the graduation of Nick Hermann and Carter Van Lin's transition into Project SEARCH. Both young men have worked incredibly hard to prepare for their next chapters, and this trip provided one final opportunity to showcase just how far they have come.
Our adventure began with a trip to CHS Field for the St. Paul Saints' Train Night. For students who love baseball, trains, or simply being part of a large community event, it was a perfect evening. The highlight may have been when graduating senior Nick Hermann was selected to participate in an on-field game in front of thousands of fans. Standing on the field with a microphone in hand, Nick confidently answered questions and represented Project L.I.V.E. with pride. Moments like these remind us that confidence and self-belief often grow from opportunities that exist outside the classroom walls.
The following day took us to the incredible Jackson Street Roundhouse Railroad Museum, where students explored Minnesota's rich railroad history and experienced vintage locomotives, railcars, and exhibits. For some students, it was their first time learning about the important role railroads played in shaping our communities and economy.
No trip to St. Paul would be complete without a stop at the Original Candyland Store. Students practiced budgeting, comparing prices, making purchases, and interacting with community members while selecting some sweet treats to enjoy.
Of course, we also ventured into one of the Twin Cities' most unique destinations—Ax-Man Surplus. The students quickly discovered that there is truly no other store quite like it. From unusual gadgets and odd inventions to items no one could quite identify, Ax-Man sparked curiosity, laughter, and plenty of conversations.
We also spent time antiquing, exploring stores filled with treasures from the past. Students practiced patience, financial decision-making, and the art of finding value in something that may not immediately stand out.
The trip included a visit to the Mall of America, where students navigated one of the largest shopping and entertainment destinations in the country. Whether it was locating stores, managing spending money, asking for assistance, or making responsible choices, every student had opportunities to apply important independent living skills in a real-world environment.
And then there was the food.
From local favorites like Boca Chica, to the amazing Fogo Gaucho, the students enjoyed some of the best meals many of us can remember. Sharing meals together provided opportunities for social growth, conversation, trying new foods, practicing restaurant etiquette, and creating memories that will be talked about for years to come.
Most importantly, this trip served as a reminder of what Project L.I.V.E. is all about. Success is not measured solely by worksheets, tests, or grades. Success is measured by a student's ability to navigate their community, advocate for themselves, solve problems, build relationships, make responsible decisions, and experience life with confidence and independence.
We could not be more proud of Nick, Jett, Peyton and Carter. Watching them successfully navigate a busy metropolitan area, support one another, overcome challenges, and embrace new experiences was the perfect way to conclude the 2025-2026 school year.
Congratulations to Nick Hermann on his graduation. Congratulations to Carter Van Lin on his transition to Project SEARCH. And congratulations to every Project L.I.V.E. student for another year of growth, perseverance, and achievement.
The future is bright, and we can't wait to see what comes next.
