For teens ages 15 to 19 looking to build solid workplace skills, while helping others, the Franklin YMCA invites them to join the Teen Corps as it prepares for its 3rd summer. Accepted applicants will be given responsibilities in areas from summer camp or member services, to fitness, integration or childwatch. Mentoring and training classes will be offered in the areas of active listening, dressing for success, resume building, professionalism and interviewing skills, among others.
“When young can set themselves apart when they enter the workforce by learning how to conduct themselves with managers and co-workers and develop basic workplace competencies,” says Bartt Pinchuck, Franklin branch director. “Teen Corps provides participants with the opportunity to gain job experience as well as develop professional skills and good working habits.”
Because of the potential difficulty teens find searching for summer positions, the YMCA saw the opportunity to help community teens hone their skills for the job market while doing good for an organization that welcomes strong volunteers. Through the free program, participants gain volunteer experience in a real job setting and participate in work skills and job readiness trainings.
The program also appeals to parents who encourage their kids to learn through volunteerism and hands-on experience.
According to abcnewsgo.com, more than one in four teens nationwide does some type of volunteer work, such as bringing hope to sick children, beauty to their own neighborhoods, and safety to the homes of seniors.
But the giving gives back. Research confirms that teens who learn early to be social, caring, and responsible perform better in school. Volunteering improves their chances of graduating at the top of their class, armed with critical leadership skills.
“Parents can encourage their teens to volunteer at the YMCA knowing that the YMCA is about developing strong youth, instilling values as well as building solid skills,” says Dawn DaCosta, Teen & Community Director. “The teens who currently volunteer for us are very focused, dedicated to the Y and enjoy what they do.”
Employment among the nation’s teens 16-19 years old has declined considerably over the past seven years they have fared far worse than any other age group. Teen Corps is designed to address this challenge by enhancing the capacity of teens to participate in the labor market.
Since the YMCA offers classes and programs based around families and children in a safe environment, participants are also required to train for other life skills such as child abuse prevention, CPR and first aid training as well as program specific training.
Participants must pass a CORI and SORI check, provide three positive references, interview with the Teen Corps coordinator, commit to an eight-week program including eight hours of volunteer service per week, and commit to all training.
Last year, participants enjoyed trainings in CPR, First Aid, Child Abuse Prevention, Customer Service 101, Landing the Job, Professionalism, and Working with Children. Each participant also underwent a mock interview with a senior staff member.
For more information, call Bartt Pinchuck at 774-235-2756 or email barttp@hockymca.org.
Applications will be accepted until June 10th
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About the Y
The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Across the U.S., 2,687 Ys engage 21 million men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Anchored in more than 10,000 communities, the Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change.
Franklin, MA
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