Hundreds Of Teens Find Work Through Philly's Summer Jobs Program
By Paul Kurtz
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A celebration of work today at Ben Franklin High School in North Philadelphia for the Urban Affairs Coalition's annual ceremony that honors the students who take part in its summer jobs program.
Shanice Boyd and Tariq Hamilton are in the final weeks of their respective summer jobs. Boyd has been working as a day care center helper while Hamilton has been learning the ins and outs of the barbershop business. Both agree that it's good to get a paycheck.
"Just to be able to put money in my own pocket and not have to ask my mom for anything," said Hamilton.
"So I could be independent and not really rely on my parents this summer cause they do a lot for me," noted Boyd.
But getting paid for your labor is only one part of Summer Work Ready, says UAC President and CEO Sharmain Matlock-Turner.
"More importantly, the experiences, the things that you're gonna learn and the people that you're gonna meet can be lifelong mentors and supporters to you."
UAC placed 1,100 in summer jobs year. Matlock-Turner says they're already on next summer with the goal of increasing those numbers but Funding remains a challenge as UAC attempts to widen the program.
Pennsylvania Sen. Vincent Hughes (D) is a supporter who attempts to steer additional state funding and private dollars to Summer Work Ready. He says a $5000 contribution would hire about four young people.
"It opens up the world to these young people. It lets them see that life is much more than a four block radius around where they live. And lets them get engaged in what has to happen in terms of having a job and being a functional contributor. It just changes the dynamic. It is a game changer and a paradigm for each one of these young people when they see what else is out there."
Hughes believes its one of the smartest investments the city can make.
