Vocational Training

Stacking Small Wins

Vocational Training

We equip young people with the character, confidence, and skills they need to care for themselves and provide for others, by helping them:

Learn to work: We connect youth with one-off, project-oriented jobs that are clear and measurable (e.g., moving rocks, pulling weeds, mowing a lawn, etc.). Youth do not get paid by the hour but by the job, after the task is completed. This approach teaches them the value of working hard, persevering, being responsible, etc.

Find and apply for hourly jobs: Mentors guide our youth through the process of locating, applying for, and starting hourly jobs.

Add value on-the-job: Mentors and workshops help our youth to develop the character and disciplines they need to succeed and advance on-the-job (e.g., the value of being punctual, dressing appropriately, working hard, guarding their attitude, following instructions, respecting other employees, seeing and doing what needs to be done, etc.).

Explore career paths: Mentors guide their mentees to discover and explore careers that interest them, which often includes:

• Connecting them with one or more of our vocational training partners (local businesses) who may provide shadowing, internship, and/or employment opportunities to qualified candidates
• Investigating vocational and/or academic training programs that will help them to succeed in the career of their choice
• Encouraging them to take the next step(s)