VERO BEACH, February 5, 2024 — The recent “Powered by Purpose – Youth Career Readiness” event brought together community leaders and organizations dedicated to shaping the future of Florida’s workforce. Hosted by Meredith Egan at the United Way of Indian River County, the gathering underscored the importance of talent development and highlighted initiatives aimed at enhancing youth career readiness.
Florida, known for its robust economy, stands as a global competitor, boasting the 17th largest economy worldwide and the fourth largest in the United States. With a population of 21 million, including 10 million workers, the state’s economic vitality is undeniable. However, despite low unemployment rates, there remains a significant opportunity for improvement in aligning available jobs with the skills of the workforce.
Key speakers at the event included Jay Lundy from Gifford Youth Achievement Center, Kristi Shields from Treasure Coast Technical College, and Phil Barnes from Youth Guidance, each representing organizations deeply committed to preparing local youth for successful careers.
GYAC’s Youth Employability Program (YEP) takes a holistic approach, initially focusing on developing soft skills and financial literacy before guiding youth through career exploration and internship placements during the summer.
Treasure Coast Technical College offers comprehensive career and technical training, allowing students to earn valuable certifications in fields such as healthcare, welding, and HVAC, among others.
Youth Guidance, through its mentoring program, offers a unique pre-apprenticeship opportunity where youth aged 17-24 receive hands-on training in trades like welding, plumbing, and carpentry, while also obtaining essential certifications in areas like first aid and OSHA compliance.
Collaboration among these programs is paramount, ensuring that local youth are matched with opportunities that align with their interests and skills. Moreover, partnerships with local businesses play a crucial role in shaping the emerging workforce to meet the needs of the community.
While these initiatives show promise, several barriers were identified, including funding constraints, cultural beliefs, and transportation challenges. Overcoming these obstacles will require continued support and collaboration from stakeholders across the community.
During the event, Jay Lundy commended United Way for its leadership in addressing local economic conditions and advocating for ALICE community members. Kristi Shields expressed gratitude for United Way’s partnership with the school district and the opportunity to showcase Treasure Coast Technical College’s successes.
In a significant development, Phil Barnes announced that Youth Guidance would temporarily relocate to United Way’s facilities during construction, further strengthening their partnership. He also lauded the streamlined e-CImpact grant platform managed by United Way, which facilitates funding for various local initiatives.
As Florida’s economy continues to evolve, investments in youth career readiness programs will be instrumental in shaping a skilled and resilient workforce prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.
About United Way of Indian River County
United Way of Indian River County (UWIRC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every community member. United Way works with local programs to provide resources to individuals and families in crisis today while working year-round to improve community conditions and create lasting solutions. We are effectively building a solid foundation and improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. For more information about your local United Way, please call (772) 567-8900 or visit our website, UnitedWayIRC.org.
