Youth Development

Mentoring and Internship Programs

By: Les Etienne and DJ McCord

Mentoring Program

The Youth Initiative Mentoring Program is currently active with John F. Kennedy Middle School in Atlanta, GA. Pairing young

men (6th, 7th, 8th Grades) identified by teachers, school administrators, and parents with positive male role models dedicated

to guiding the youth through the program and beyond. Utilizing after school time, outings, and planned group activities, the

participants will build relationships with the youth as mentors. Also, there is involvement of families to ensure that the

participant is holding up his end of the bargain by behaving properly at home as well as school and within the program. Group

Meetings are held once a month bringing together the entire group. There are two mentors per student. Other monthly activities

include: Weekly onsite school visits; Outings (Art museums, professional sport events, etc…), Family partnerships, and

Academic improvement session.

Internship Program

 

Summer Internship Program aims to provide recent high school graduates and rising seniors in the Atlanta area an opportunity

to interact with professionals in their daily routines. This allows students exposure within a professional setting that in the

future, may be of interest, additionally participants are afforded the opportunity to examine elements critical to ensuring

professional success in a 21st century work place.