Ann Davis' Summer Training and Recreation (STAR) program still has a few spots available for teens (age 15 to 17) to learn work and life skills this August.
The Ann Davis Transition Society began as a safe place for abused women and children, but has now developed into a counselling, training, and educational and facility for any individual, group, or any family who needs it.
The STAR program (formerly the YES program), runs 3 days per week for 3 weeks, and it teaches teens the skills necessary to succeed in obtaining and maintaining employment.
Teens will participate in both fun and challenging activities, including volunteer and work assignments with local businesses, in order to target practical skills like problem solving, conflict resolution, stress management, interview skills, and many more.
"We've seen a deficit in our community: many young people don't know what it takes to get or keep a job," says Youth Counsellor, Imraan Gazdar. "We are here to fill that need."
The STAR program teams up with local businesses to create work placements that would appeal to a range of interests. In the past they have offered placements in Long & McQuade, Little Mountain Veterinary Clinic, and Julie Anne's Art & Framing, to name a few.
"Participants quite often end up with a part-time or summer job out of it," says Patti MacAhonic, Executive Director at Ann Davis.
Participants of the STAR program will also a receive certificate of completion, a letter of reference, and employment counselling (as needed) which are valuable assets when looking for a career.
The next program runs August 4 to 20, located at 9046 Young Road in Chilliwack. There is no fee for this program.
Interested youth should apply via telephone (604-792-2760) and will then be contacted for an interview. Visit www.AnnDavis.org to learn more about the program and other services that are offered.