The Oakland Youth-Friendly Business Network recognizes the generous businesses and individuals who provide workplace mentoring, meaningful work, and essential life skills to youth.
It is no secret that too many youth are grappling with tremendous obstacles ranging from poverty, violence, poor health, struggling schools and a lack of role models. So many of our young people are drifting aimlessly and could go in any direction. Often all they need is a little extra guidance and support and someone who can show them a way forward.
Luckily, through formal and/or informal internships and apprenticeships many businesses have been working behind the scenes to nurture, educate and guide youth to be the leaders and achievers they are meant to be. It is time that these businesses receive the recognition they deserve and that the transformative experiences they are providing these youth be brought to light. In a town with so much bad news, let’s take time to give our businesses our thanks. Hopefully this recognition will inspire other businesses, and workers in general, to think about mentoring our youth.
