TUF Teens Program Prepares Chicago Youth to Make Mark on Community, World
At Tools Up Foundation, we not only recognize the power and potential that our youth have to be successful and make a difference in our world, we fully embrace and empower it. Our mission is twofold: to revitalize the community and to empower our participants with the essential skills and opportunities to establish a sustainable livelihood through their expertise.
This month, we joined people around the nation in celebrating international youth day! International Youth Day is commemorated every year on 12 August, bringing youth issues to the attention of the international community and celebrating the potential of youth as partners in today’s global society.
In observance of international youth day, we reflected on the responsibility we hold and share with other adults around the world to support the next generation. And we continue to reaffirm our commitment to do our part.
Tools Up Foundation is actively working to change the narrative surrounding Chicago’s youth and young adults. Too often, we hear stories of disengaged teens and young people contributing to the decline of our neighborhoods, our city, and quality of life. However, through our work, we know that when given access to knowledge, resources, opportunities, and TOOLS to build their futures, every young person has the potential to succeed.
Through our TUF Teens program, we have had the pleasure of working with a group of interns this summer who are telling a different story and preparing to make their mark not just on our local community, but on the world.
Under the guidance of experienced instructors and mentors, TUF Teens offers participants a chance to acquire essential skills to explore future careers in the construction industry. Interns not only gain practical knowledge but also cultivate teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills to enrich their personal and professional development. Benefits of the program include mental health wellness check-ins and assessments, performance-based stipends, construction vocation training, and free certifications.
This month, we are proud to celebrate the success of our inaugural TUF Teens summer cohort! The summer curriculum concluded on August 9th. Check out highlights of our year 1 accomplishments and impact thus far:
Engaged 11 interns in construction vocation training
Awarded 11 certifications in First AID and CPR, occupational health and safety, and flagging through American Traffic Safety Services Association
Provided interns 11 experiential learning and cultural exposure opportunities through field trips and enrichment activities
Hosted 7 guest speakers that inspired and motivated the interns
Our TUF Teens training program is all about providing a comprehensive approach to education. We emphasize not just the tangible tools of construction but also the educational resources necessary for success. Our program blends practical skills with academic knowledge, ensuring our teens are well-equipped for the future. With a holistic approach, we empower them to build both their careers and their confidence. We are deeply grateful for all of our supporters, donors, and partners who helped contribute to our inaugural year’s program implementation and success.
As adults, we each have a role to play in ensuring that the young people in our lives and communities are positioned to succeed and thrive in making a positive difference in our world. As Tools Up Foundation grows and evolves, we invite you to reflect on the individual power you hold to provide youth and young adults with the support, encouragement, and tools to elevate and build a promising future. Join us in building the next generation of leaders by staying engaged with us and helping to spread the word about our work! Share this blog post and follow us on social media.
“The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow.” – Nelson Mandela
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