Community Outreach

Pathways to Purpose - A Youth Mentoring & Workforce Development Program

Target Audience: At-risk youth in the Philadelphia area (ages 14-18)
Program Duration: Year-round

"Pathways to Purpose" is a comprehensive youth mentoring and workforce development program designed to empower young individuals in the Philadelphia area. This program will provide holistic support, focusing on personal growth, academic enrichment, and exposure to diverse career paths, particularly in emerging and often overlooked sectors including those in technology, pharmaceuticals/biotechnology, and skilled trades. By fostering mentorship relationships, enhancing literacy, and equipping participants with essential professional skills, "Pathways to Purpose" aims to cultivate a generation of confident, capable, and career-ready young adults.

Overall Goal: To equip Philadelphia youth with the skills, knowledge, and mentorship necessary to pursue fulfilling academic and career pathways, fostering economic mobility and community engagement.

Specific Objectives:

• Mentorship: Establish 25-30 impactful one-on-one and group mentoring relationships between youth and professionals by December 2025.

• Workforce Exposure: Expose 100% of participants to at least three different career opportunities in technology, pharma/biotech, and trades through workshops, site visits, and guest speakers.

• Reading & Literacy: Improve reading comprehension and vocabulary for 80% of participants through a structured reading program.

• Professional Development: Equip 75% of participants with essential resume writing skills and interview preparedness.

• Soft Skills Development: Enhance communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills for all participants.

• Community Engagement: Foster a sense of belonging and civic responsibility among participants.
  
  

Program Components

A. Mentorship Program:

• One-on-One Mentoring: Connect youth with adult volunteers from diverse professional backgrounds. Mentors will provide guidance, support, and act as role models.

• Group Mentoring: Facilitated small group sessions focused on shared challenges, skill-building, and peer support.

• Mentorship Training: Provide comprehensive training for all mentors on best practices, youth development, and program expectations.

B. Workforce Development & Career Exposure:

• Technology Focus:

  • Workshops on introductory coding, data literacy, and the basics of AI.

  • Guest speakers from local tech companies, AI startups, and academic institutions.

  • Potential for site visits to tech incubators or university labs.

• Pharma/Biotech Focus:

  • Presentations on drug discovery, clinical trials, and careers in research and development.

  • Guest speakers from pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and healthcare professionals.

  • Possible lab tours or informational sessions at local universities with strong science programs.

• Trades Focus:

  • Hands-on workshops with skilled tradespeople (e.g., carpentry, plumbing, electrical, welding).

  • Tours of vocational schools, construction sites, or manufacturing facilities.

  • Discussions on apprenticeship opportunities and trade certifications.

• Career Fairs/Networking Events: Organize events that bring together professionals from various sectors with participating youth.

C. Reading Program:

• Personalized Reading Plans: Assess reading levels and develop individualized reading goals.

• Reading Buddies: Pair younger participants with older, more proficient readers for reciprocal learning.

• Book Clubs: Facilitate discussions on diverse genres and topics to promote critical thinking and comprehension.

• Reading Challenges: Incentivize consistent reading and progress.

• Access to Resources: Provide access to a curated library of age-appropriate and career-relevant books and online resources.

D. Professional Skills Development:

• Resume Writing Workshops: Hands-on sessions to create effective resumes.

• Interview Preparation: Mock interviews, tips on professional attire, and communication skills.

• Financial Literacy: Basic workshops on budgeting, saving, and understanding personal finance.

• Digital Literacy: Training on online safety, professional email etiquette, and effective online research.