The C. Waldo Scott Center continues to serve as the Lead Agency for the Youth Leadership learning opportunity. This program provides employment readiness knowledge and skills through project-based workshops and on-site experiential services along with a stipend for participating students. The program targets youth residing in the Southeast community of Newport News. The program will assist youth with developing a foundation (work ethic/skills) to assist them in becoming self-sufficient as they progress to the legal employment age (16) and young adulthood. Data collected for the Summer 2019 participants reflect that of the 18 households served, 14 (78 %) live in households where the annual household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty guideline. Although the stipend is not a large amount, it is significant for families when youth are able to use such funds to purchase clothes, food, and contribute to household expenses; assist with alleviating poverty (economic hardship) during the summer months.
As stated by a previous Youth Leadership Program Participant Sierra, "My experience as a Youth Leader was interesting. From reading to children, to participating in arts & crafts, I have enjoyed the experience. As a Youth Leader, I have made new friends that will last forever. I have learned things like patience, leadership, and how to focus when times get chaotic. This is an experience I would not give up and I am glad I got chosen for the program."
Learn more about the C. Waldo Scott Center here.