Youth Focus
K-CHING Youth Employment Program
What kid wouldn’t want the chance to earn $500 over 10 weeks? New Columbia youth can’t wait until May rolls around so they can attend the K-CHING orientation to learn about the work program and how they might have the opportunity to earn $500 over the summer. This 10 week program not only builds a resume but self-esteem, confidence, work ethic, respect and responsibility. K-CHING is a work preparedness program for youth and teens aged 11-17 in New Columbia.
Once the youth have gone through the application and interview process, they are placed in a location on the New Columbia Commnity Campus – whether they assist the front desk at the Boys & Girls Club, or help serve lunch to senior citizens at University Park Community Center’s Loaves & Fishes – the youth are put to work. They must arrive in their “Building Community Together” uniform tee shirt, be on time, work well with others, and stay on task. If they don’t suit up and show up, then they will be speaking with the supervisor of the program, and have a conference with the K-CHING program manager and a parent.
After nine hours of work, and a one hour group meeting with all of the K-CHING participants to talk about the week’s activities, behavior, and any issues that have surfaced – the youth learn how to discuss work related problems or appreciations. Through the week it is the youth’s responsibility to record their hours on their timesheet which they keep until Friday, and then it’s cha-ching, payday! One student in the 2008 K-GHING Program, shared that he was saving all of his $50 each week so he could buy a piano. He took lessons at University Park Community Center, and practiced – but did not have a piano at home because his mom could not afford one. He learned that if he saved his money, he could buy one of his own. Our kids are learning more than how to turn in their timesheet, they learn valuable skills like financial management and strong work ethic.
This program began in 2006, has grown to incorporate another learning opportunity: parental engagement. In addition to the youth working 10 hours a week, a parent must sign the work application stating they will participate in the program by committing to ten hours of community service during the 10 week program. This parental involvement shows to the child that community service matters, and it is important in building strong families and strong communities.
Reach & Teach Pocket Park Events
Every Tuesday and Thursday from 1-3pm there were snacks and an activity for youth in the designated pocket parks. These activities ranged from learning to play lacrosse to making bookmarks with the Center for Family Success. In part of New Columbia’s core values of building community, we connected with community partners to share our wealth of resources and provide engagement opportunities for youth and community partners alike.