Empowering Nashville Students Through Career Readiness
Genesys Works, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting high school students in underserved communities with career opportunities, is making a significant impact in Nashville. This summer, the nonprofit will introduce its proven internship model to help high school seniors secure meaningful, paid internships, addressing the local workforce needs.
Connecting Talent with Opportunities
By launching in Nashville, Genesys Works aims to create pathways to career success for young individuals. The organization emphasizes that talent exists throughout communities, but opportunities can often be scarce. "At Genesys Works, we believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn't," stated Byron V. Garrett, the CEO. With this initiative, the goal is to open doors for students, enabling them to build confidence, connect with mentors, and pave their way to brighter futures.
The Internship Model
The structure of the Genesys Works program is designed with both students and employers in mind. Students will undergo over 160 hours of professional skills training before entering the workforce, ensuring they are ready for the real-world challenges. Each intern will work 20 hours per week throughout their senior year, offering continuity and deepening their contributions to the workplace.
Employer Benefits
For companies, Genesys Works serves as the employer of record, handling all logistics, training, and ongoing support. This support allows businesses to easily integrate interns into their operations. Interns are placed in roles across various departments, including IT, operations, HR, marketing, and finance, providing valuable skills and experience from day one. Local employers gain access to a pool of motivated young talent eager to make a significant impact in their organizations.
Supporting Nashville's Commitments
Nashville Public Schools is committed to ensuring every student is prepared for success after graduation. Superintendent Dr. Adrienne Battle emphasized that partnerships like the one with Genesys Works facilitate real-world opportunities that enhance student readiness. The initiative not only builds workplace skills but also nurtures relationships between students and mentors, helping young individuals envision their futures.
Community Impact
Community involvement is crucial for developing future leaders. Companies mentoring and supervising interns can also benefit from leadership development opportunities, thereby reinforcing their commitment to workforce readiness. Karl Sprules, the Chief Operating Officer at AllianceBernstein, highlighted the necessity of these early-talent initiatives, especially in rapidly growing fields like STEM. Providing real-world experience is invaluable for young people embarking on their career journeys.
Transforming Lives and Communities
Since its establishment in 2002, Genesys Works has helped over 14,000 youths across eight cities in the country. The organization boasts impressive statistics from its recent impact report: around 90% of program graduates go on to enroll in college, while alums earn significantly higher median incomes than their peers seven years post-completion. Notably, two-thirds of graduates earn more than at least one of their parents.
With over 245 corporate partners in various cities, Genesys Works is now seeking to recruit Nashville-area companies to join its inaugural class of employer partners. For those interested in making a difference in their community, contacting Genesys Works could be the starting point of a rewarding partnership. Companies can learn more by reaching out to Antiqua Cleggett.
About Genesys Works
Genesys Works is all about creating pathways to career success for underserved high school students through an engaging and supportive program. The organization provides eight weeks of robust technical training, followed by a year-long paid corporate internship, accompanied by college and career coaching and ongoing alumni support, all aimed at reducing economic inequality. Genesys Works has expanded immensely, catering to thousands of students annually, from cities like Houston and Chicago to New York City and Minneapolis. To explore ways to contribute or for more about their initiatives, visiting their official website offers all necessary information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Genesys Works?
Genesys Works is a nonprofit organization that provides pathways for high school students in underserved communities to achieve career success through internships and training.
When is Genesys Works launching their program in Nashville?
The program is set to launch in Nashville this summer, focusing on high school seniors.
What types of roles do interns fill?
Interns are placed in entry-level positions across various fields such as IT, operations, HR, marketing, and finance.
How does the program support students?
The program includes technical training, professional skills development, and mentorship opportunities, helping students build confidence and workplace readiness.
How can companies get involved with Genesys Works?
Companies interested in partnering with Genesys Works can reach out to Antiqua Cleggett for more information and opportunity details.
