Local Young People Learn Invaluable Work Skills, Earn Money and do Good, in Summer Volunteer Program at Cobble Hill Health Center

Cobble Hill Health Center, at 380 Henry St. once again took part in the Summer Youth Employment Program, designed to offer young people the opportunity to earn money and learn valuable skills. The program is funded by the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City’s Summer Youth Employment Program (Department of Youth and Community Development). 

The program provides New York City Youth ages 14 to 24 with important summer employment and educational opportunities for up to seven weeks. Participants work at camps, parks, government agencies, local non-profits, hospitals, senior center, daycare centers, retail organizations and small businesses throughout the city and earn minimum wage.

“We teach them specific skills that they can put on their resumes," said Karen White, Director of Volunteers at Cobble Hill Health Center. "Some of the kids who have worked here during the summer have been hired as full time employees once they graduate.”

Ms. White added that earning their own money built the youngsters’ self esteem and in many instances helped parents with expenses like school clothes and college book fees. But it was the interaction between patients and the young people that really inspired Ms. White.

“I really enjoy watching how our patients become enlivened by the youngsters and the way the kids learn how to care for an older or disabled person with compassion,” she said in a release.

The interactive volunteer program takes place every summer at Cobble Health Center and this year, over 70 boys and girls participated. For more information, visit www.cobblehill.org or call Nini Rubin 718-431-0100.