Prebys Foundation Awards $5.89M For Paid Internships At Local Orgs

SAN DIEGO, CA — The Prebys Foundation Wednesday awarded 24 local organizations and nonprofits a total of $5.89 million to allow young people the opportunity for internships and apprenticeships in multiple industries.

The "Youth Workforce" grantees include groups in the health care, creative fields, IT, STEM, education, construction and environmental sectors.

"Paid internships help students gain essential experience, skills and professional connections, ultimately bridging the socio-economic gaps that too often leave them behind," Prebys Foundation CEO Grant Oliphant said. "Our collective goal is to help more young people find pathways to successful careers and contribute to a brighter future for our community."

Top grants include $400,000 each to Interfaith Community Services and Somali Family Service of San Diego, $350,000 to National University, $325,000 to Casa Familiar, and $300,000 each to Climate Science Alliance, Garden 31, United Domestic Workers Resource Center and Urban Restoration Counseling Center.

The Prebys Foundation issued a call in March for proposals from organizations to provide paid internships or apprenticeships for youth ages 16- 26.

"Creating pathways for all students to participate in internships -- regardless of their financial background -- will empower them to contribute their talents and ideas while fostering a more inclusive workforce," said Chris Sichel, vice president of programs at the foundation.

— City News Service