GIFFORD, Fla. – Friday, August 28, 2026 – In celebration of National Intern Day, the Gifford Youth Achievement Center’s (GYAC) Youth Employability Program (YEP) hosted its annual internship celebration on Thursday, July 30, 2026, to recognize the achievements of this year’s interns and to celebrate five years of the program’s impact.
The celebration brought together students, employers, staff, and families to reflect on another successful year of career exploration and growth. Since its launch in 2022, the YEP has continued to expand, growing from 23 students and 16 employers in its first year to 60 students and 26 employers this summer. The program’s growth has been strengthened by the support of new community partners, including MBV Engineering, the City of Sebastian, and Brookdale Vero Beach, who have joined the effort to provide students with meaningful career experiences.
Over the past five years, the program has provided students with opportunities to gain professional experiences, explore career pathways, and develop skills that prepare them for future success. This summer, 60 students participated in internships across a variety of industries, including computer technology, healthcare, and hospitality, gaining hands-on experience and mentorship from local employers. Through these opportunities, students applied classroom learning in real-world settings while building confidence, strengthening professional skills, and developing connections within their chosen fields.
A highlight of the event was a “courtside chat,” where students and employers shared their experiences from this summer, reflected on lessons learned, and discussed the impact of hands-on workplace learning. The conversation offered attendees an inside look at how these experiences help students prepare for future careers.
Since its launch, the YEP has helped students gain valuable workplace experience while strengthening partnerships with local businesses and organizations committed to investing in the next generation of talent.
After working with a rising 10th grade student, Isabella C., this summer, Deby Winter, the Vice President of Carpet & Tile Warehouse, described her experience with Isabella, stating, “She asked thoughtful questions, tackled every task with enthusiasm, and wasn’t afraid to get her hands dirty. Her passion for design and construction is real, and her willingness to learn was evident from day one. The greatest compliment we can give Bella is this: before July was over, we invited her to return next summer – if she’ll have us.”
These partnerships are an essential part of creating meaningful career experiences for youth, providing students with opportunities to apply their skills in professional settings while gaining insight into the possibilities ahead.
“Reflecting on five years of growth – from an initial class of 23 students in 2022 to 60 bright interns this summer – fills me with immense pride. Celebrating our 2026 cohort alongside National Intern Day and our five-year anniversary highlights the incredible commitment of our expanding network of business partners who make these hands-on career experiences possible. Watching our students step into diverse industries, build real-world confidence, and connect directly with mentors, as was evident during our courtside chat, proves just how transformative these opportunities are for their futures,” said Jay Lundy, Sr., the GYAC’s Director of Youth Employability.
As the program enters its sixth year, the GYAC remains committed to expanding opportunities that empower students to develop career-ready skills, explore their interests, and build brighter futures. With the support of the local community, the GYAC can continue Changing Lives, Changing Futures!
To learn more about the Gifford Youth Achievement Center and its programs, visit www.mygyac.org.
About GYAC
Gifford Youth Achievement Center, a 501(c)(3), opened its doors in 1998 on a mission to enhance the academic experience of underserved youth in Indian River County. Twenty-eight years later, GYAC continues to offer year-round educational programs for students in grades K – 12. In addition, GYAC provides activities for adults and seniors. The Center also hosts job fairs, health clinics, community gatherings, and serves as an information hub for those in need of services.
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- Angelia Perry, the GYAC’s Executive Director, joins Edward O., a rising 10th grade YEP student, and the City of Sebastian team to celebrate his accomplishments and the successful completion of his summer internship.
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- Angelia Perry, the GYAC’s Executive Director, celebrates with several YEP students and representatives from Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital in recognition of the students’ accomplishments and the successful completion of their summer internships.
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- Dr. Terri A. Graham, the GYAC’s Assistant Executive Director, Willie M., a rising 12th grade YEP student, and a representative from MBV Engineering participate in a “courtside chat,” sharing insights and reflections on this summer’s internship experience.
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- Jay Lundy, Sr., the GYAC’s Director of Youth Employability, speaks to audience members during the YEP’s annual internship celebration.
