Home : Our Work : ReClaim McKeesport Ambassadors ’15 : Connecting the Dots Connecting the Dots Share this project Walt Yager worked to transform a space that was once a bustling railroad crossing into a spontaneous gathering space for the community. He also restored the roof of the railroad tower as well as incorporated landscaping and historical signage to the space. Connecting the Dots: A Railroad Crossing Runs Through It incorporates historical context to Walt’s site so that the youth in the community may experience the same growth and development that he gained from the city. “I want to use this project as a stepping stone to return its [McKeesport’s] image to one of pride, moral values, hard work and accomplishments.” Walter B. YagerReClaim McKeesport Ambassador ABOUT ME. My hometown is McKeesport and I have lived there my whole life. I am married and have three grandchildren. Currently I do consulting and volunteer work for nonprofits in the area. I believe the biggest challenge that McKeesport faces is the blight, erosion, and loss of major industry. For my project, I would like to enhance the area surrounding the LaRosa Club for many reasons that would positively impact the youth who attend the club. WHY DID YOU APPLY TO BE A RECLAIM AMBASSADOR? Basically to make a positive difference and to honor the memory of my son, Sean Walter-Andrew Yager who passed at age 24, the same age as my father in World War II. I often told him of the past glory of McKeesport and what it did for many of us. WHAT HOPES DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUR COMMUNITY IN THE NEAR FUTURE? To start with projects like these and others that I am involved in to begin to turn a corner resulting in positive results and image. WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT/ACHIEVEMENT? Personal Growth & Maturity – Starting with a very low sense of value and questionable skills I, through the help of peers and mentors, was able to gain a high level of confidence to achieve designated goals.