The Columbia Urban League made a special announcement regarding the longstanding effort to support youth workforce development through voluntary donations available on Columbia Water customer bills.
The announcement took place at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 4, immediately prior to the Pathways to Career Opportunities Worksite Orientation and Luncheon, located at 1818 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201.
Following the announcement, media representatives were invited to remain for the Worksite Orientation and Luncheon to speak with participating worksite partners about their involvement in the program.
Pathways to Career Opportunities provides youth ages 14 to 17 with meaningful summer work experiences, workplace readiness training, mentorship, and exposure to career opportunities throughout Richland County.
This year, the Columbia Urban League received
nearly 600 applications for the summer employment program. While the program is expected to serve approximately 200 participants this summer, additional community support and donations will help expand the program’s reach.
“The need continues to grow throughout our community,” Columbia Urban League President and CEO James T. McLawhorn, Jr. said. “These contributions help provide meaningful opportunities that expose young people to the workforce.”
Beyond providing work experience, youth employment programs can have lasting benefits for young people and communities. A 2018 Brookings Institution study of Boston’s Summer Youth Employment Program found participants had 35 percent
fewer arraignments for violent crimes in the 17 months following the program compared to nonparticipants. Researchers also found improvements in social and emotional skills, job readiness, and educational aspirations among participating youth.
The program has also expanded its public safety partnerships this year. The Columbia Police Department will serve as a summer worksite partner and introduce a police academy experience for participants. This initiative follows a similar partnership with the Columbia Fire Department.
Customers interested in supporting Pathways to Career Opportunities may access the donation form through the Billing section of MyAccount at ColumbiaSCWater.net and select Donation Contribution.
