BOA Success Story FY20 Program -- Oakwood
C3 Navigator Sherry Burns, who was responsible for identifying youth who might be interested in the many opportunities that the grant offered, was excited to learn of the potential for students being able to participate in internships while in school. She shares, “When I read the grant, I immediately thought of students at LCCA, as they could really benefit from earning money while keeping their focus on their academics. The grant’s scope in enabling these young people to begin the realization of their dreams was phenomenal and I know that the students’ lives have been positively impacted because of this experience.”
Surveys of LCCA students have revealed that the ability to work on campus is very important due to transportation issues. As LCCA Executive Director Rhonda Samples shared, the internship opportunities provided by BOA’s generosity are a blessing for these students, many of who are from families that are struggling to get by.
LCCA’s student-based enterprises provide job skills, including critical soft skills, and career exploration. Students learn what types of jobs will be good fits for their interests and personalities. The work experience can provide a career jump start, and the valuable ability to explore alternatives.