CREW WORK PROGRAM
Summer Enrichment for Teens
YWCA Central Alabama’s Family Resource Center annually conducts CREW (Creating Responsible Educated Working teens). CREW is a virtual/in-person four- to seven-week summer enrichment program that primarily serves Woodlawn teens entering 9th-12th grades; however, other high school students within the Greater Birmingham area are also encouraged to apply.
This June 7-July 2, 2021, camp offers internship opportunities (provided thanks to local business partnerships) that align with students’ education and career goals. Students receive a weekly stipend for their participation with tips on budgeting and saving. Students also hear weekly from leaders in various areas to help in their professional growth. Professional development areas for CREW participants include: Public speaking, self-esteem, financial literacy, social media, soft skills and more.
We welcome applications from all students regardless of race, creed, nationality, school, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or ability.
Learn how you can apply, partner with us to support this summer’s CREW members or donate to keep this program viable.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: FRIDAY, APRIL 9, 2021
“CREW is a four- to seven-week summer enrichment program that engages teens in productive summer activities that introduce them to job skills and excellent work habits in real-world settings.”
WHAT IS CREW?
CREW began in 2011 when teenagers from YWCA’s Interfaith Hospitality House found themselves with little to do in the summer. They were invited to help out at the UCP Summer Camp over the course of six weeks. Their experience was enhanced by YWCA when job skills training was added as part of the program. Teens were prepared for such soft skills as professional job interviews, résumé building, and financial literacy.
CREW continued to partner with and participate in the UCP Summer Camp, but the program expanded to add three additional CREW teams in Woodlawn — thanks to the financial support it receives from Woodlawn United and the PNC Foundation.
Since 2011, CREW has become a staple program in the Woodlawn community that continues to grow and evolve over time.
Today CREW is an internship program for adolescents (entering grades 9-12), who need a positive, productive way to enjoy their summer while participating in fun, enriching, character-building activities and professional development training.
HOW TO APPLY
While the YW continues to monitor public health advisories related to COVID-19, its Family Resource Center (FRC) is accepting applications for this year’s CREW Internship. The deadline is April 9, 2021. Follow us on social media (#YWCACrew2021) to stay informed.
WHAT CAN CREW MEMBERS EXPECT?
CREW usually runs June-July and includes a five-day orientation. The orientation features skills building, the importance of healthy relationships, professionalism and etiquette, a day of team building at the Cherokee Bend Ropes Course, and multiple sessions on the importance of education, dress code, work ethic, commitment, listening, responsibility, team building and professional preparation.
Orientation is followed by six weeks of internships and experience. Interns on the fifth day of each CREW work week enjoy a “Professional Development Training and Enrichment Day,” when all CREW members receive training on resume building, interview 101 preparation, mock interviews, financial budgeting, and travel to various educational, civic and work sites throughout Birmingham to expand their horizons and broaden their understanding of our larger community. At the end of every professional development/enrichment day, each intern’s service is reviewed and stipends are given out along with additional financial management training and budget help.
Did You Know?
– What are personal development skills?
– 21st century skills and knowledge needed to succeed in work and life
– Reinvesting in America’s Youth: Summer Youth Activities
Questions?
Family Resource Center
FRC@ywcabham.org
(205) 949-5551
