Southeast Alabama Works' annual Worlds of Work event attracted over 1,300 high school students and 91 booths from employers and educational institutions, marking its biggest year yet. The event, which provides hands-on career experiences, raised $121,000 from sponsors like All In Credit Union and PowerSouth, ensuring a successful and impactful event for students exploring career options.
Navigating life after high school can be a challenge, and while college is the right path for some, it’s not always the best fit for everyone. Southeast Alabama Works , one of seven regional workforce councils in the state, continues its mission to connect students with career opportunities through hands-on experiences.
Last week, SAW hosted its annual Worlds of Work event, marking its 10th year and its largest turnout yet. This year Worlds of Works had 91 booths set up by employers and educational institutions, exceeding expectations and past events.The booths spanned multiple industries, with designated sections for utilities, healthcare and professional services, as well as manufacturing and advanced technology. People are also reading… A total of 1,310 high school students attended, representing 28 schools from across the 10-county region. “We had students come from as far away as Crenshaw County and as close as Dothan City Schools,” Thomas said. Increased Funding and Strong Community SupportThe success of WOW wouldn’t be possible without strong financial backing. This year, SAW raised $121,000, surpassing last year’s total. Major sponsors included All In Credit Union, which contributed over $15,000, PowerSouth and local energy cooperatives with a combined $15,000, and Georgia Pacific with a $10,000 donation. “This level of funding meant we didn’t have to cut any corners this year,” Thomas said. “We’re proud of our fundraising efforts because it makes events like WOW possible.” While this year’s event was a milestone, the future of Worlds of Work remains uncertain. The organization’s leadership is working to ensure the longevity of the program, which has become a vital resource for both students and employers in the region. Unlike traditional career fairs that rely on pamphlets and giveaways, WOW provides students with hands-on, interactive experiences. “It really lets students test-drive a career and put their hands on what a working job feels like,” said Thomas. She shares that their goal is to help students recognize the career opportunities available right in their backyard. More than anything, they hope students walked away with a better understanding that they can have a successful career right here in Southeast Alabama. None of this would have been possible without the dedication of vendors and volunteers. A total of 538 lunches were delivered to those working the event, highlighting the sheer number of individuals who contributed to its success. As Worlds of Work celebrates its 10th year, the impact of this program continues to grow, providing students with real-world career insights and fostering a stronger workforce in Southeast Alabama. Whether or not the event returns next year, its legacy of guiding students toward successful futures remains undeniable.Skylar Celeste Boone Follow Skylar Celeste Boone Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today
CAREERS WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION FUNDRAISING
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