Our New Youth Program Is Off To a Great Start!
We are thrilled to share the launch of SummerWorks, an exciting new youth program designed to equip participants aged 16-21 with valuable skills and employment opportunities. Modeled after the highly successful KentuckianaWorks program of the same name, our program offers paid summer jobs at a rate of $15 per hour, providing young participants with both hands-on work experience and essential workshops to enhance their skills and employability. SummerWorks seeks to create a generation of empowered individuals ready to contribute to their communities and thrive in the workforce.
The introduction of SummerWorks in our region has garnered significant attention from our community, culminating in a feature on WDRB where we had the opportunity to share the exciting details of the program. We were honored to have esteemed guests, including New Albany Mayor Jeff Gahan, Charlestown Mayor Treva Hodges, and Clarksville Town Council Representative Mike Mustain, speak at our launch event. Their unwavering support and enthusiasm for this initiative will undoubtedly enhance our future success.
We recognize the immense potential of young individuals and the importance of early work experience in shaping their professional journeys. Through this program, participants will have the opportunity to gain real-world work experience, build networks, and develop vital skills that will pave the way for their future success. By engaging in meaningful employment, they will not only earn a competitive wage but also cultivate a strong work ethic, discipline, and a sense of responsibility.
In addition to the valuable work experience, SummerWorks offers a series of invaluable workshops that will enhance participants' professional competencies. The workshops will focus on key areas such as resume writing, financial management, and interview skills. Through these sessions, participants will learn how to craft impressive resumes that highlight their strengths and accomplishments, acquire essential financial management skills to make informed decisions and develop effective interview techniques to excel in job interviews. By providing youth with these essential skills, they are set on a path toward success and self-sufficiency.
Inspired by the success of the KentuckianaWorks program, we have tailored SummerWorks to ensure similar positive outcomes for our youth participants. By leveraging the proven strategies and best practices of the established program, we are confident in providing a transformative experience that combines meaningful employment with skill-building workshops. This model has demonstrated its effectiveness in empowering youth, enabling them to gain valuable experiences and develop the confidence needed to thrive in their future endeavors.
With great enthusiasm for the first week of our program, we welcomed 13 young individuals who embarked on their summer jobs which range from positions at local parks departments to local animal shelters. To mark this special occasion, participants had the honor of meeting with New Albany Mayor, Jeff Gahan. The presence of Mayor Gahan served as a reminder of the importance of this program and the support it receives from the community. It was a memorable moment for all involved setting the stage for a fulfilling and transformative experience.

As SummerWorks gains momentum, we eagerly anticipate the positive impact it will have on our region's workforce and the future of our participants. We firmly believe that investing in our youth today will yield a more prosperous and vibrant community tomorrow.
