|
WHAT:
About a decade ago, Eric McIntosh was a student in Orlando’s Youth Employment Program learning the fundamentals of earning a paycheck and saving money. Today he and his partner, Jelani Gray, run their own business, Sweetie’s Ice Cream in the Lorna Doone neighborhood, and have partnered with the city to help provide on-the-job experience and opportunities for young residents as a rewarding way to give back.
“Being part of the Summer Youth Employment program as a student opened many opportunities for me and I was able to really develop my skills to run my own business,” said Eric McIntosh. “I am excited to be on the other side helping my community learn what it’s like to get hands-on experience and show other businesses in the area how it can benefit them as well.”
On Tuesday, April 2, 2024 Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer will roll up his sleeves together with students at Sweetie’s Ice Cream to serve up some frozen concoctions by pulling the perfect soft serve cones and adding a variety of delectable toppings. During the event, Mayor Dyer will also talk about how business owners can partner with the City of Orlando’s Summer Youth Employment Program and support the city’s efforts to create a more equitable community by providing access to opportunities that help residents thrive .Kaylee Johnson, a local young resident, will also share her story on how the Summer Youth Employment Program has impacted her while working at Sweetie’s Ice Cream.
Annually, the summer youth employment program employs more than 600 teenagers ages 15-19 who through the five-week program receive financial literacy training, job experience, networking skills and career readiness, such as work etiquette and dressing for success, all while receiving an hourly salary from CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF). Through the program, students work in career fields including retail, hospitality and the insurance industry.
WHEN:
Tuesday, April 2, 2024
10:30 a.m.
WHERE:
Sweetie’s Ice Cream
212 South Orange Blossom Trail
WHO:
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer
Jelani Gray and Eric McIntosh, Local Small Business Owners
Kaylee Johnson, Orlando Youth Employment Program Participant
MEDIA PARKING:
Parking at the business location is limited. Please RSVP to Ashley Papagni by 12 p.m. Monday, April 1 to reserve a spot by email at ashley.papagni@orlando.govor by phone at 321.418.9361.
OPPORTUNITIES AND RESOURCES:
For employers and students interested in applying to the program visit orlando.gov/summeryouthemployment.
###
|