The Gebbie Foundation has awarded the Workforce Investment Board Inc. a grant to continue the Chautauqua Advancement Project for a fourth year.
For the last three years, the Chautauqua Advancement Project has been a bridge between Jamestown businesses, young professionals and the community. The program supports businesses to find the right talent for their organization while also supporting young professionals to find and start careers while becoming involved in the community.
"During the last three years, we have worked with over 20 young professionals and have successfully retained the talents of at least half of those interns at local businesses." said Dr. Sue McNamara, WIB executive director. "We hope to continue this trend with a new group of young professionals who want to remain in our area."
Just as important as the young professionals who apply to the program, are the businesses that have hosted and hired interns as a result of the experience. Past businesses include El Greco, BWB, Suburban Blend, Dahlstrom Roll Form, Allied Fire Protection Systems and WRFA.
"Wages are covered by the Gebbie Foundation grant funds for the duration of the internship, and this really allows the employers to try out talent before making a long-term hiring decision. We welcome any local business considering hiring in the near future, to contact us and discuss the possibility of tapping into the internship program," said Kerri Brown, E-Net director and co-facilitator of the program.
The program will place interns at host organizations Monday through Thursday. On Fridays the interns will work with McNamara and Brown to develop leadership and networking skills.
"We have done several career fair and networking events to really highlight local opportunities. Around 200 high school students have participated over the last three years." Brown said.
For more information, visit www.chautauquaworks.com and click on the ENET tab, email Kerri Brown at kbrown@chautauquaworks.com or call 487-5175.