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Some DeKalb youths mixed nighttime basketball with learning life skills when DeKalb Workforce Development teamed up this summer with the DeKalb County Police Athletic League (PAL) Plus Midnight Basketball League.
“Providing educational and life skills training along with this summer sports program is a win-win for DeKalb County and for the participating youth,” DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May said.
Melfred Garrison, an employment and training analyst senior with DeKalb Workforce Development’s youth department, offered training and employment opportunities to youth participating in the league that targeted males and females ages 15-19, teens in need of community service hours or who are members of church groups.
From 9 to 10 p.m., participants attended educational and life skills workshops on such topics as financial literacy and employment opportunities. Youth were required to attend the workshops before being allowed to participate in the games, which took place at 10 p.m. and 11 p.m.
During the youth workshops, Garrison shared employment and training prospects as well as life skills advice. Participants had the opportunity to sign up for DeKalb Workforce Development’s youth department and become eligible to receive grant-funded training or employment opportunities.
Some of the youth from the league currently are exploring opportunities with DWD youth department which places youths in a variety of entry-level positions through its internship program.
The DWD youth department is currently looking for out-of-school youths for training, employment and internships.
For more information about DeKalb Workforce Development, including upcoming job fairs, go to www.dekalbworkforce.org or call 404-687-3400. All of the services offered by DWD are free to customers.