In August, we blogged that our Apprenticeship
Program was in the planning phase. Just a few weeks later, thanks to a
lot of hard work by a number of HALO volunteers, we are ready to get the first
round of apprentices to work! On Monday, October 10th, the pilot program
begins, with two girls and one boy, all aged 17-18, excited to become
apprentices.
The youth have been paired up with local businesses based
upon their skills and interests. They will serve as an Apprentice for
three months as part of the inaugural run of the program, although subsequent
runs will probably last between 6 - 12 months, depending upon the
business. During their three months, the youth will gain experience and
make professional contacts necessary for success in a competitive work
force. Throughout the three months, the apprentices will be mentored by a
HALO volunteer who will check in weekly and serve as a liaison between the
Apprentice and the business. The mentor will be there to answer
questions, offer advice, and provide a shoulder to lean on as the Apprentices
learn to navigate the working world.
Before the youth get into the workplace, they will go
through a three week Orientation period at the HALO Learning Center, with
workshops held two evenings per week.. The youth will get a crash course
in basic professionalism, they will create a resume, and they will go through mock
interviews to prepare for their apprenticeships. The Learning Center is
going to provide interview attire and clothing appropriate for their jobs, so
the youth and their mentors will also go on a shopping trip together.
The Apprenticeship Program is an exciting opportunity for
the HALO Learning Center, area youth, and the Kansas City community to work
together for the common goal of improving Kansas City and the lives of its
citizens. If you want to become involved with round two of the
Apprenticeship Program as a mentor, or if you would like to host an apprentice
at your business, please contact michellecordone@haloworldwide.org.
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