Through our Quarterly Speaker series entitled "Look Out" Start Here youth learn life lessons and hear career life stories from professionals in a variety of fields. Youth learn how they got their start, challenges they encountered, and the signature ingredients that contribute to their maintained success. Start Here partners with other organizations and schools to host Career Fairs as well.
Professional Development - Youth are supported with career readiness as they learn and practice on-the-job skills, both technical and soft. Youth go through a 6 week intensive where they get acclimated to commonly used software and apps, unpack EQ work scenarios, and successfully complete a culminating capstone project. We also reserve one week of training for Financial Literacy.
It is in the Internship Phase that Start Here youth put their PD training to work. Youth who successfully complete PD training are placed in a 6 - 8 week PAID internship. Our employment partners support youth in extending their learning through getting acclimated to the professional work environment.
Mentorship is a pivotal piece of Start Here programming. Youth are matched with experienced, vetted mentors who are experts in their fields. Start Here mentors sign on to connect with our youth at a minimum of 10 hours per month. Mentorship philosophy is 3 pronged:
Connect: Build rapport
Guide: Give sound, helpful counsel
Support: Partner with Start Here in helping our youth triumph over life's challenges as they pursue their career goals.
