The McHenry County Workforce Prep Youth Program has been busy with Spring Break Group Events. The goal of the Group Events is to expose our youth participants to different career fields and help them in the discovery of job options in McHenry County.

Our guest speakers included Helen Jost from McHenry County College who presented information about trainings programs and classes offered at the college. This informative presentation about short term options was helpful for those still deciding what career path is right for them. She also provided information about financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

Fred Kaiser Sr. from Think Ink Inc. talked to our group about his experiences opening his own business and managing employees. He shared what it is like working with his family and brought some of his screen printing products to show the group. Many of our youth asked questions about his rewards and challenges since they want to become entrepreneurs.

Stacy and Shannon from Meijer in McHenry discussed with our group the online application process and several of the entry-level opportunities at Meijer. They shared their stories about getting promoted within the company and how applicants can stand out while applying. Meijer provided cookies for our group to practice the creative skills needed when working in the bakery department as a decorator.

Our group was given a tour of LifeTime Fitness as well as a presentation about the variety of entry-level jobs offered in their large facility. Department heads from the aquatics, spa, café, hospitality, and personal training departments talked with our group about the skills and education of their employees. Our group was interested in learning about the company’s history while experiencing the environment of this growing company.

We also discussed teamwork, cooperation, work personalities, and talked about our strengths while networking during several activities at the Youth Center.

Our participants are gearing up for a busy summer and putting in hours at their worksites to learn basic work skills. We would like to thank all of our Worksite Supervisors, Guest Speakers and Volunteers for teaching our youth new skills and supporting our program!