Ann Davis Transition Society is soon to launch their annual STAR Youth Program.
The three-week Summer Training and Recreation program has July and August sessions.
Groups of youth aged 14 to 17 will spend three days per week learning and exercising the skills that will help them in both the workplace and everyday life.
Youth counsellor and STAR facilitator Tammy Webb says that participants will learn how to gain and maintain employment.
"We work on resumes, cover letters, conduct mock interviews, and work on the life skills that help not only in the workplace, but out in the real world as well."
By participating in fun and challenging activities and workshops, participants practice effective communication skills, problem solving and conflict resolution, which are beneficial on the job, at school and at home.
Furthermore, an important part of the program is teaching self-care. Learning about diet and nutrition, and spending a day at the YMCA, provides essential lessons about staying healthy.
Field trips provide youth with invaluable first-hand experiences. They tour workplaces and chat with employers, give back by providing community service, and have some fun by visiting a few of Chilliwack's most popular outdoor destinations.
While school builds academic skills, the STAR program adds to an individual's "life tool-kit" so they are better prepared for the tough decisions ahead in terms of entering post-secondary school, starting a career and communicating with loved ones in a healthy and respectful way.
"It's one way to make them a little more comfortable and better equipped with the skills to succeed," Webb said. "And it's a great social environment as well – they always leave with friends."
Participants will also receive a letter of reference, a certificate of completion and the ability to follow-up with Ann Davis for counselling, assistance, advice or other support for up to one year afterward.
There is no fee to participate in the program. In fact, youth will earn $25 per week for their full participation.
"We want to be able to reward them for the hard work of learning and contributing to the community each week. It's also a bit of a buy-in to be committed, to show up on time and to work hard," Webb explained.
STAR sessions run from July 5 to 21, or from August 9 to 25. Youth meet Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for three weeks.
Contact Tammy at 604-792-2760 ext. 214 or at twebb@anndavis.org for more information or to register.