More than 30 groups have completed the eight-week program at Prairie State since its inception. Graduates are advancing in their careers and helping place newer participants in internships.
DaeShawn Howard, 20, of Chicago Heights, speaks about his internship experience at Prairie State College in Chicago Heights.
Blanton and other speakers Friday addressed seven participants who are the latest to complete the eight-week Opportunity Works internship program.The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership launched the program several years ago to place interns with employers in the transportation, distribution and logistics sector. Cook County recently injected $15 million of American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 funds to expand the program.
Taylor Parks, 19, of Richton Park, parlayed her internship at the Crisis Center for South Suburbia in Tinley Park into full time work. The work at the nonprofit that helps people affected by domestic violence is much more rewarding than her previous experience working in retail, she said.Latasha Hubert, the Crisis Center’s director of human resources and volunteers, said Opportunity Works interns can learn skills and gain experience in such areas as technology, social work and marketing.
“Before I joined the program I had no idea what I was going to do,” Howard said. “I didn’t know what to do to keep going toward my career goals and express my artistic abilities.”Federal funding funneled through Cook County into the program covers costs for personnel, equipment and other expenses. Interns earn $15 an hour for $25 per week for six weeks and receive a laptop upon completing the program, Clark said.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
California's 1st Native American state lawmaker works to protect tribal causesAssemblyman James C. Ramos (D-Highland) was elected four years ago as the first and only Native American from a California tribe in the state Legislature.
Read more »
Oregon State vs. Arizona State Pac-12 football game live updates, analysis, scoreFollow our live updates as the Arizona State Sun Devils host the Oregon State Beavers in a Week 12 Pac-12 college football game at Sun Devil Stadium.
Read more »
San Jose State losing streak against Utah State extends to nine gamesThis is the Spartans’ third loss in five games.
Read more »
No. 8 Ohio State rolls past overmatched McNeese State in 99-43 winWith a 56-point margin of victory, Ohio State rolled past McNeese State. All 14 players on the roster saw the floor in a dominant performance.
Read more »
Arizona State reports card: Sun Devils struggle in all facets in loss to Oregon StateThis marked the sixth game against a nationally ranked opponent for ASU, with the lone victory being a 45-38 win over Washington five weeks ago.
Read more »