Ready 2 Work is a six week, intensive, summer workforce development program to high school juniors and seniors with disabilities and/or those considered at-risk. The program runs from July 8th to August 21st. Youth will meet at VersAbility Resources every Monday and Wednesday morning to gain work experience through participation in a number of on-site jobs as well as receive afternoon Workforce Development lectures designed to prepare youth for interviews, money management, and more. On Fridays from 9-12pm, youth will job shadow with a variety of local businesses.
As a Ready 2 Work Business mentor, adults will serve as employment coaches for the duration of the program as well as the for the rest of the year. Mentors will provide advice, encouragement, career and job support, and share their own experiences in entering the job market and how s/he arrived at where s/he is today. Mentors will be matched with at least one youth participant who shares a similar background, career goals, and other similar characteristics.
Those interested in becoming a mentor must attend the following required dates as well as prepare additional dates at their own discretion:
July 8th from 12-1pm: Mentor Orientation
July 15th from 12:30-1:30pm: Mentor/Mentee Meet & Greet
August 21st from 3-4:30pm: Graduation Celebration
At least two lunches 12:30-1pm
At least one job shadow trip 9-12pm, preferably the Thrift Store day (date TBD)
Additional Requirements:
Pass a criminal background check
Attend screening interview with Volunteer Coordinator
The ideal mentor will be at least 25 years old, with at least 5 years of work experience at one location, have earned a high school diploma or equivalent, exhibit a genuine concern for teens in the program, and have a strong desire to share their personal experiences with program participants.
