Empowering Futures: Summit County’s Internship Program Transforms Young Lives
In Summit County, a transformative internship program is redefining the lives of local youth, providing them with the invaluable opportunity to engage with the real world and explore various career paths. Spearheaded by collaborative efforts between the county and the City of Akron, this initiative aims not only to elevate the voices of young individuals but also to steer them away from potential troubles, guiding them toward a brighter future.
At the heart of this program is Anthony Felding, a 17-year-old student-athlete from Akron’s East High School, who has immersed himself in a summer internship that allows him to work closely with city officials, including the mayor. “I am working with the mayor. I didn’t even know who the mayor was before I got here, and like I am working with him. It’s pretty cool to me. It makes me really excited,” Felding expressed. His involvement in the city’s operations has not only broadened his horizons but also solidified his aspirations of going to college and continuing his football career.
The youth internship program, which Denico Buckley-Knight, the City of Akron’s youth opportunity strategist, helped initiate two years ago, serves as a crucial conduit for empowering the young voices of the community. Buckley-Knight’s passion for raising awareness of youth perspectives is evident in his approach: “One of the things that I am passionate about is making sure that the youth voice is elevated. Far too often, we as older adults think that we are the solutions to every problem in the world when the reality is the youth.” This approach recognizes that young people are not just recipients of guidance but active contributors to solutions in their communities.
The program has proven to be a significant platform for students like Anthony Felding. He appreciates the opportunity to share his insights on how to improve the community. “I give my input on what they should do and how it can be better to help it,” he states confidently. This illustrates the program’s dual benefit: while students learn through hands-on experience, the city also gains fresh perspectives and ideas from its youth.
The structure of the internship program is designed to be both supportive and beneficial for the students involved. With paid internships, participants work for 20 hours a week from Monday to Friday. This not only provides them with financial rewards but also equips them with essential life skills and work experience that can significantly impact their futures. The program emphasizes responsibility, teamwork, and problem-solving, all of which are vital skills applicable in any career.
Although the application window for the current round of internships is closed, interested individuals can look forward to new opportunities in the future. The internship program highlights the importance of establishing pathways for youth to engage with their communities, gain experience, and develop fundamental skills essential for their personal and professional growth.
Moreover, community-driven initiatives like this internship program reflect a broader awareness of the challenges faced by youth in today’s society. Recognizing the potential risks that can lead young people astray, the City of Akron and Summit County are committed to investing in their future. Programs designed to enrich youths’ experiences reflect a long-term vision to cultivate a generation that is not only equipped with skills for employment but is also engaged citizens ready to contribute positively to their communities.
As the summer unfolds, the impact of the internship program will continue to resonate within the community. For young minds like Anthony Felding, this experience offers a glimpse into the possibilities that lie ahead, fostering hope and ambition. In a world filled with opportunities, ensuring that youth have a seat at the table and their voices heard is not just beneficial; it’s essential for creating inclusive, thriving communities.
Such initiatives not only empower individuals but also foster a sense of belonging and responsibility among youth. By guiding them on the path to success, the City of Akron and Summit County are championing a brighter future for the upcoming generation, setting a precedent for how communities can effectively invest in their youth. As this initiative unfolds, the local landscape transforms, revealing the potential within each young person determined to make a difference.
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