BBBS Celebrates their Largest Graduating Class of Career Skills’ Interns in Martin County

June 4, 2012 - PRLog -- Martin County – June 4, 2012 – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) recently celebrated the graduation of interns who took part in the Career Skills Mentoring Program. It was an extra special year for Big Brothers Big Sisters because the graduating class was the largest yet – triple from three years ago.  This is such a significant milestone because, at a time when the economy is struggling to mend, Big Brothers Big Sisters is training potential future workers who could encourage that further growth and find a comfortable place in the rebuilding workforce.

This year’s Career Skills Mentoring Program interns were from Stuart Middle and Murray Middle. The graduation took place at Grace Place in Stuart on May 10, 2012. BJ’s and Seacoast National Bank in Jensen Beach generously donated food and beverages for the event.

The Career Skills Mentoring Program provides middle school students with the opportunity to gain employment skills. Students in the program received one hour a week of training and mentoring in basic job skills, such as how to fill out job applications, how to “dress for success,” and interviewing techniques. Motivational speakers explained the importance of an education and demonstrated the qualities of successful employees. The students then applied for positions with local business partners and were matched with business mentors for on-the-job guidance. Students received a stipend and are leaving the program with meaningful job experience and training. This program is funded in part by the Children's Services Council of Martin County.

“By providing a foundation of skills and education for our youngest residents, the Council is helping Martin County develop a stronger economy and improve the quality of life here,” said David Heaton, executive director of the Children's Services Council of Martin County. "Martin County homeowners are making a big impact through the Career Skills Mentoring program."

“I am so proud of the students that completed this year’s Career Skills Mentoring Program,” said Stacey Brownlow, Executive Director of Martin County at BBBS. “We look forward to helping even more children next year.”

BBBS is looking for more business mentors for next year to make yet another successful and rewarding experience for their Career Skills’ Interns. If interested, please call Derick Hayhurst at 772-283-8373.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies nationwide. BBBSA recognized CEO William P. Bee Jr. as “CEO of the Year- Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009 and again in 2010 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

About Children Services Council of Martin County

The Children’s Services Council of Martin County, an independent special district, was created by voter referendum in 1988 to provide a dedicated funding source for local children’s programs. The Council focuses funding on maternal and child health, early learning, after-school care, mental health and substance abuse prevention, the prevention child abuse and connecting families with needed resources. Learn more at www.cscmc.org.