Nine student-interns completed the first term of Literacy KC’s young adults’ workshop, REPRESENT, on April 27th! They celebrated their final class with Literacy KC Instructor Phil Denver, Program Coordinator Anne Gatschet, and four volunteer tutor/coaches. Their journey in this new career readiness and literacy program for young adults ages 16-24 continues, however, with dedicated mentors guiding them throughout the year toward individual dreams and professional goals.
REPRESENT’s first cohort spent 12 weeks writing, reading, speaking and creating in the key areas of identity, career and finance. By the end of the workshop, students had served as marketing consultants to young adults for leaders at Literacy KC and at the Nelson-Atkins Museum. They created a series of tapestries using self-made block print symbols and original poetry on fabric (see photo below).
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Students gave numerous oral presentations, read, and composed texts about workforce soft skills, and took personality inventories. They enjoyed round-table discussions with Kansas City civic leaders. They leave the program with a professional dossier including a resume, personal statement, and a letter of recommendation.
On the final class day, Mr. Denver asked each student-intern to write a statement about what he or she valued most from REPRESENT. Following the writing session, each shared aloud these heartfelt comments:
“The class reminded me how much I really love to read.” – Nadia
“I enjoyed meeting new people. Everyone was friendly, nice and respectful.” – Dustin
“REPRESENT helped me become a better reader and person. It’s helping me to achieve what I most want in life.” – Crystal
“I now have a resume and a letter of recommendation to find my first job.” – Nicodemas
“I learned a lot about myself. My reading, writing and speech has spiked up.” – Richard
“I really improved my reading and writing skills these past 12 weeks.” – Quasim
“I learned many different skills about being confident and not being afraid of asking a question. I’m understanding more about many new topics.” – Jaime
“I enjoyed the speakers who came in to talk to us. The class helped a lot with my reading, writing and comprehension.” – Mynikka
“I learned that everyone at Literacy KC enjoys their day because they are doing something they believe in.” – Chauncey
The next cohort of REPRESENT student-interns is now enrolling for the Term 2 class, beginning May 31st. Each of the first nine will be ready to help!
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