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For Immediate Release LCI Inc. to Serve Disadvantaged Youth SANFORD — Disadvantaged youth may receive individualized career counseling and training from LCI Inc. beginning July 1, when the nonprofit organization begins providing services under the federal Workforce Investment Act. “The purpose of the program is to help economically-disadvantaged youth find employment, but what we can offer goes much deeper,” said Meg Moss, director of career and rehabilitation at LCI. “We take a holistic approach, because there are so many things we can do to help people achieve their own life goals.” Participants in the program must be between 14 and 21 years of age and qualify by having some form of economic disadvantage. Among others, the act provides for youth who have deficient literacy skills, dropped out of school, are juvenile offenders, or are homeless, pregnant or already a parent. Those who require assistance to complete an educational program or maintain employment also may qualify. Precisely what services will be offered is still up for discussion. Tammy Koger, executive director of LCI, said a new program coordinator is now being hired to guide the effort and should be in place early next month. Current staff members also have been consulting with more than a dozen people already enrolled in the program to determine what would be most helpful for their own career development. Leadership development, tutoring, adult mentoring and skill training are just a few of the possibilities. “For us, it’s a new venture,” said Moss, who will supervise the new career initiative. “We want to get input from the youth. It’s their program, and we want to see what will motivate to keep them active.” Though LCI has traditionally worked with people with physical and mental disabilities, Koger believes the new training program fits right in with their mission. Like other participants, she said, disadvantaged youth face their own barriers to employment. And, from the very beginning, LCI has specialized in helping people overcome barriers and succeed in careers. Youth interested in receiving career assistance may contact LCI Inc. Staff members will determine if applicants qualify and, if so, sit down to define short- and long-term goals. Once that’s done, staff will draw on a broad array of resources to help participants develop the skills or resolve personal circumstances to meet their goals. Services provided by LCI are limited to youth, but a similar program to assist adults is offered locally by the Employment Security Commission. While the new initiative is a significant step for LCI, Koger and Moss both said they’re far more excited about what it means for local youth and their families. “We want to open their eyes to things they may not have even considered before,” said Moss. “We’re wanting participants to look beyond the next job and realize there’s a career out there for them. Our goal is to help them get wherever they want to be.” Founded in 1967, LCI primarily serves residents of Lee, Chatham, Harnett and Moore counties. The nonprofit organization provides manufacturing assistance and trained employees for business and industry, helps people with disabilities enjoy their greatest possible independence, and produces a full range of trophies, awards and engraving. — 30 — Media Contact Web Resources
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