Stories from the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

February 2010

 

In this difficult economy, education and career skills have never been more important.  Those without education and workplace skills and experiences are being hit hardest by the recession.  For teens living in economically-challenged communities, a college education and a well-paying job seem like distant dreams.  With the extreme challenges that our youth are facing in the present, many are deterred from preparing for their future.

 

Since its inception in 1974, the YMCA Black and Latino Achievers (B.L.A.) program has helped more than 12,000 youth prepare for fulfilling careers.  By fostering the educational and personal development of 7th to 12th grade youth, the YMCA brings cloudy futures into focus by emphasizing college-planning and by teaching leadership and career development skills.  Teens are paired with role models and inspired to reach their goals, attend career sessions at DePaul University, learn how to write resumes and participate in job shadowing and college tours—vital experiences that all teens need but not many get to have.

 

One of our B.L.A. participants is living proof of the program’s impact.  At first, Crystal Briggs didn’t see the importance of preparing for her future as early as eighth grade.  She felt she was too young to prepare for college or think about a career.  Her interactions with B.L.A. and mentors helped her realize that it is never too early to begin this critical process.

 

“This program really helps us to fulfill our dreams and to become someone in life,” Crystal said about the inspiration she has received from the B.L.A program.  “Education is everything; anything you want to do in life is based on your education.  B.L.A. gives us the extra push to help us succeed.”

 

In our knowledge-driven economy, it has never been more important to give teens a head start on their futures.  To do that, we need your continued support. Whether you’re interested in mentoring a youth, representing your company at a career day, providing job shadowing opportunities or making a donation, your gift will directly benefit youth’s dreams and ambitions.

 

Through B.L.A, parents, adults, the community and corporations can work together on one investment that will surely turn a profit:  the leaders of tomorrow.