One of the greatest joys in neighborhood development work is seeing young leaders growing up to take positions of influence and responsibility in the community.
Each summer, through the YEP Paid Internship Program, these emerging leaders are thrust into positions of significant responsibility to stretch their abilities, build skills, strengthen self-confidence, and electrify curiosity. For the last 10 summers, YEPs have worked as farmers with McLaughlin Grows Farm, as crew leaders in lawn care and with our Home Rehab and Construction program, and as day-camp leaders with CATCH Camp. We are planning with diligence to determine how work sites will function this year, (likely the one to be impacted most greatly will be our beloved CATCH Camp), and we know that by summer’s end--like every year--YEPs will be exhausted, but also grown and matured. Internships are an important step in today’s world: laying a foundation for future careers, enhancing soft skills such as time management and professional rapport, and instilling work ethic. Internships also give YEP’s an extra push in a competitive market when applying to college.
Internships are hugely important in any students’ life. They set the foundation for future careers, enhancing soft skills such as time management and professional rapport, as well as work ethic. Internships help to build confidence and experience while learning new trades and skills, and Colleges place huge importance on internships when reviewing applications, giving YEP’s an extra push in a competitive market.
But don’t take our word for it, here’s what the YEP's have to say!
We are dedicated to making sure that the YEPs’ “new normal” includes summer internships that follow social distance and safety guidelines while providing financial support and a rewarding career experience. YEPs will work 20 hours/week for 8 weeks, and each will receive $1500 in wages. Join Community enCompass in investing in these young leaders of Muskegon by sponsoring a summer internship!
While there’s much we don’t know right now, we do know this:
We have the work.
We have the trainers.
The YEPs are ready.
Can you help us reach our goal of providing 20 paid internships and give Muskegon’s youth a head start on their future?