A year ago last month, Youth Solutions launched its first ever Alumni Network! The Youth Solutions Alumni Network was formed to create a place where our program graduates can stay connected to each other and our organization, while receiving access to education, employment, and professional development opportunities post graduation. Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) has and always will be more than just a program to our youth, it’s a family. Through the Alumni Network, we are able to continue to provide support and opportunities to our youth beyond their years as a JMG participant.
Over the past year, through the many events and activities offered through the Alumni Network, alumni have been able to stay connected and feel a sense of belonging. “Thank you for having me as a volunteer at the Career Development Conference (CDC). I had an amazing time watching the youth compete in the JMG bowl and being back with the JMG family. I am blessed to be a part of something bigger and I will always be thankful for that,” expressed Caitlin Steele, JMG Alumna from Hartford High School.
Alumni have also had the chance to develop their leadership skills by giving back to current youth. Last January, the Youth Solutions Alumni Network and the Youth Advisory Council held their first statewide virtual youth networking/professional development event that featured short workshops on how to help youth build their career confidence. The outstanding alumni presenters did a fantastic job leading workshops and engaging the audience in discussions.
This year, we are excited to provide our alumni with new professional development opportunities to continue growing their skills. On October 25, we will host our first alumni event of the new program year. Rock Your Opportunities will be an interactive youth media training event led by Kathleen Wolf, Founder & Chief Experience Officer of The Purpose Partners, and will help youth gain confidence and be interview ready for any opportunities that come their way. We look forward to another great year and are excited for everything we have in store for our alumni network members.
If you are interested in learning more about the Youth Solutions Alumni Network, contact Amina Chatti, chattia@ouryouthsolutions.org.
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