The nonprofit Portland Workforce Alliance is seeking high school students to join its new Youth Impact Council for 2020-21. Students in this paid advisory role will serve as peer leaders while also building relationships and gaining access to career coaching for their own future.
What students will do: Students in the inaugural Youth Council will have two main roles: 1) Serve as a sounding board for PWA career experiences, such as the virtual NW Youth Careers Expo and career-mentor programs. 2) Help shape the council's role and scope for future years.
Time commitment: The council will meet once a month virtually between December 2020 and June 2021 for 60-90 minutes. All other opportunities are optional.
About PWA: PWA works with employers and schools to create community-based career exploration that is meaningful, interesting, inclusive and (dare we say) fun.
Student benefit: Students may take advantage of career coaching, leadership opportunities, career talks, and mentoring, if desired. Students may attend PWA board meetings and will have access to PWA officers and board members who are leaders in their respective industries. Students who participate consistently in the monthly youth council meetings will receive a $150 stipend at the end of the term.
Eligibility and requirements: Students in grades 9-12 are eligible. Priority is given to students from PWA partner districts (North Clackamas, Parkrose, Reynolds, PPS and Gresham-Barlow). Students do not need expertise, only an interest in career readiness and a sincere commitment to "pay it forward" by helping shape current and future opportunities for their peers.
How to apply: Fill out this interest form no later than Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2020. PWA will notify students by early December. Questions? Please contact career@portlandworkforcealliance.org.
Inclusion statement: The PWA Youth Impact Council is intended to be inclusive and welcoming. We welcome diversity of all kinds, including gender identity, racial/ethnic background, sexual orientation and economic circumstance.
