July 30, 2024, Press Release from the City of Lima: The Mayor’s GenNext Workforce Development Program is in its final weeks, with 11 interns gaining valuable experience through local employers. The program employs individuals ages 16 to 24 who are residents of the City of Lima and do not have a post-secondary degree. The employers for the internship program included Mercy Health, Bradfield Community Center, We Care Too, Woof Boom Radio Station, ArtSpace/Lima, and the City of Lima.
The interns have completed over 1,700 combined hours of on-the-job training, earning more than $20,000.
Mayor Sharetta Smith states, "The program has offered our young residents a remarkable chance to gain hands-on experience in their chosen fields. It equips them with practical skills, boosts their confidence, and helps them establish networks crucial for their future careers. Strengthening our community involves investing in our youth's potential, and the GenNext Program's success reflects this dedication."
Ja’Irus Wash has been working at the Woof Boom Radio Station. He shared his experience working through the program, saying, “This internship really helped me learn about my ear for music. I’ve learned to be comfortable with being around new people and also being in a new environment.”
The program's positive impact extends beyond the interns themselves. Employers have conveyed their appreciation for the fresh perspectives and enthusiasm the young interns bring to their organizations. They have highlighted the importance of such initiatives in fostering a skilled and motivated workforce for the future.
Andrew Kohls, the marketing manager at Woof Boom expressed his appreciation for the program, “Ja'Irus has been a huge help thus far and we hope we've been able to help him improve his skill set as well! We’re thankful to have been connected with him and provide a testament to how businesses can utilize the GenNext program to not only help with current business needs but to help develop skills and show the future workforce what is out there!”
As the Mayor’s GenNext Workforce Development Program wraps up, plans are already underway for next year's cohort. The City of Lima is committed to continuing this initiative, ensuring that more young residents have the opportunity to gain meaningful work experience and contribute to the community's growth and prosperity.
