5th Yourh Leadership Academy

On March 16, 2018, the 5th Youth Leadership Academy will have its first after school workshop inside City Hall. The program was originally design to take place during summer. However, due to continuous requests from community members, the Community Safety Division, Recreation and Community Services Department have decided to pilot the program during the month of March 24 through April 26 on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4pm – 7pm. The YLA’s mission is to give our youth the necessary skills to gain self-motivation, hope for a better future, resume support and gain some work experience.

It is anticipated that more young people, ages 15-18 will have the necessary tools to acquire a desired job and/or a volunteer opportunity this summer after participating the YLA. The YLA was designed to prepare youth to enter the workforce by teaching resume building, interviewing skills, cover letter writing and conflict resolution skills. Participants gain such skills and understandings though several workshops, which are facilitated by the CSUMB’s, Career Exploration & Development Coordinator, Rhonda Mercadal-Evans and her team. In the past, program participants have had the opportunity to intern with agencies such as; Monterey County Department of Social Services, Recreation and Community Services Department, Partners for Peace, Sun Street Centers, Radio Bilingue, L.I.F.E. is for Everyone, Inc. and Building Healthy Communities facilities, graduating from the program with over 45 community hours.

Community Safety Program Coordinator, Fernanda E. Ocaña and Recreation Coordinator, Vivian Salinas are invested in the recruitment of young people who are ready to take the first step in taking a big step towards their future. If interested in the 5th Youth Leadership Academy, please contact Fernanda E. Ocaña at fernanda.ocana@ci.salinas.ca.us or via phone at 831.676.7590.