#United States #Dallas #Youth Employment #Dallas Works #All Stars Project

Transformative Impact of Dallas Works

The Dallas Works Summer Youth Employment Program, powered by the All Stars Project, Inc. (ASP), is making waves in the local community by providing significant opportunities for youth in underserved areas. In just six months, over 1,000 young individuals participated in various career readiness workshops, and impressively, 220 students completed paid internships this summer. This initiative is aimed at equipping the youth with essential skills for the workforce, while fostering a culture of mentorship and civic engagement.

A Revived Initiative

Launched anew under the guidance of Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson, the program marks a pivotal moment in the city’s efforts to bolster youth employment. Recognizing the need for a fresh approach, Mayor Johnson appointed ASP, leveraging their experience in high-impact youth development to take the lead in this transformative initiative. Aspiring to achieve ambitious goals, the collaboration between Mayor Johnson, workforce czar Lynn McBee, and ASP has paved the way for substantial advancements in youth and workforce development.

Collaborative Efforts and Funding

The success of Dallas Works can be attributed to a strong coalition, involving city agencies, nonprofits, businesses, and educational institutions. Corporate funding has been essential, with major contributions including a $175,000 investment from JPMorganChase, provided by Michelle R. Thomas and Shelia English, and a $250,000 grant from the Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT), championed by Wayne White and others.
Furthermore, KPMG U.S. Foundation extended a grant of $112,500 to support the initiative, highlighting the shared commitment of community leaders and organizations towards youth empowerment.

Collectively, the program has garnered $700,000 in private funding, showcasing the solidarity of the community in investing in the future of Dallas's youth.

Real-World Experience

The internships provided by Dallas Works offer students invaluable real-world experience, partnering with notable organizations such as Accenture LLP, Bank of America, and Verizon. Students engage in environments that bolster their skills, shape their academic pursuits, and enhance their future career trajectories. This hands-on engagement is integral to building confidence and professional skills, enabling participants to navigate the workforce landscape with greater ease.

New Strategic Partnerships

ASP also recently announced a strategic partnership with NAF, a recognized leader in education and workforce readiness. This collaboration aims to fuse ASP's performance-driven approach with NAF's extensive network of corporate partners and public schools, further amplifying pathways to success for students.

Future Outlook

Looking into the future, Dallas Works is focused on mapping its internship ecosystem, aligning with partners, and cultivating best practices to ensure sustained impact. The program intends to model a collaborative structure for youth and workforce development that could potentially inspire similar initiatives across the country.

The All Stars Project and the Dallas Works initiative extend their deepest gratitude to all participating partners and supporters, acknowledging their vital roles in shaping the future of Dallas's youth.

About All Stars Project

The All Stars Project is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to grassroots organizing and community building for over 40 years. Focusing on performance as a powerful tool for transformation, ASP empowers youth from disadvantaged backgrounds, fostering connections with caring adults and creating a platform for growth. Operating in multiple cities across the U.S., ASP remains steadfast in its mission to bring diverse communities together in pursuit of positive change.

For further information on the Dallas Works program, visit the All Stars Project’s website.