Empowering young individuals to discover and pursue their ideal career paths is crucial for building a thriving future workforce. The Career Start Program, developed by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota, is a comprehensive initiative designed to guide youth from kindergarten through 12th grade in exploring, developing, and applying career skills. This program focuses on fostering essential employability skills and core competencies, ultimately empowering them to embark on successful careers of their choice.
Recognizing the importance of community collaboration, the Boys & Girls Club partners with a wide array of organizations to deliver the three key stages of Career Start.
Stage 1: EXPLORE – Career Exploration Club
Introducing young minds to the vast landscape of career possibilities is the foundation of Career Start. Through the Career Exploration Club, offered at Clubs and KIDSTOP sites, children receive age-appropriate exposure to diverse career opportunities. These opportunities are structured around six industry clusters and are presented bi-monthly. Career-focused themes are woven into regular programming, showcased on bulletin boards, and reinforced by staff across all program activities. This early exposure aims to spark curiosity and broaden horizons for younger participants.
Stage 2: DEVELOP – Career Development Club
As students progress into middle and high school, the Career Development Club provides targeted programs to cultivate career readiness skills. Key initiatives include Career Launch, a program designed to equip youth with practical skills such as resume writing, job application completion, and effective interview techniques through mock interviews. Furthermore, the Money Matters program enhances financial literacy, teaching essential skills like opening bank accounts, understanding credit and its importance, and navigating the financial aid process. For those interested in human services, the Junior Staff Career Development Program offers valuable insights and experience. The Club also extends its development offerings to vocational trades with programs in culinary and construction.
Stage 3: APPLY – Career Apprentice Club
For high school students ready to take the next step, the Career Apprentice Club offers personalized mentorship to facilitate the application of their skills and knowledge in real-world settings. Club mentors guide students in seeking external work opportunities, internships, and post-secondary education options. They also provide support in completing the often-complex financial aid process. Youth who successfully complete all components of the Career Start program become eligible for the prestigious Career Promise scholarship to attend St. Cloud Technical and Community College (SCTCC), paving the way for further education and career advancement.
CareerACHIEVE: Post-Secondary Success and Mentorship
The commitment to Career Start scholars extends beyond high school graduation. Through CareerACHIEVE, Club staff continue to mentor students throughout their post-secondary journey, ensuring successful graduation from college and career satisfaction. A strong partnership with St. Cloud Technical and Community College underpins CareerACHIEVE, creating a comprehensive support system designed to bridge achievement gaps and foster successful program completion at SCTCC. This holistic approach ensures that Career Start scholars receive ongoing guidance and resources as they transition into higher education and their chosen careers.
CareerPROMISE: Removing Financial Barriers to Education
The CareerPROMISE scholarship stands as a testament to the program’s commitment to accessibility and equity. Career Start scholars who fulfill all program requirements are eligible for this scholarship to attend St. Cloud Technical and Community College. Awarded after all other financial aid has been applied, the CareerPROMISE scholarship effectively eliminates financial obstacles that often hinder young people from pursuing higher education and achieving their career aspirations. This critical financial support empowers deserving students to access quality education and build brighter futures.
Get Involved with Career Start: Partnering for Youth Workforce Readiness
Career Start thrives on the robust support of the community. Local schools, colleges, employers, workforce centers, the military, and the wider community all play vital roles in building youth workforce readiness through this impactful program. There are numerous ways for individuals and organizations to contribute to Career Start and help young people explore, develop, and apply their skills.
Consider these opportunities to get involved:
- Share your expertise as a career guest speaker.
- Host a business tour to provide real-world insights.
- Offer valuable internships or job shadowing experiences.
- Advocate for legislation supporting youth workforce readiness programs.
- Sponsor one of the six key career areas within Career Start.
- Become a Partner for the Future and provide ongoing program support.
To learn more about how you can get involved with Career Start today, please contact us at [email protected]. For information regarding Career Start sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to the development department at 320-252-7616.
Donate Online to directly support the Career Start Program and empower the next generation of professionals.
