CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas —
Many Coastal Bend students could get their very first chance at employment this summer thanks to the Workforce Solutions of the Coastal Bend’s Summer Earn and Learn Program.
The 5-week program gives students ages 16-22 with disabilities the chance to work for employers around the area and earn hourly wages.
The program is made possible through collaboration with Workforce Solutions' Vocational Rehabilitation Services, which help people with disabilities find and retain jobs.
Student Higher Ability Navigator Imelda Trevino said the summer earn and learn program creates an opportunity for employers to build a more inclusive and diverse work environment.
"They go disability awareness training," she said. "They get hands on experience as well as being able to mentor these students and really teach them about what their industry or their business is like and give these kids a chance."
For the last two years, over 65 students have made their way through the program and have worked with over 70 different employers around the area.
Trevino said some students that excel during the program have even been offered full term employment even after summer is over.
"We see the kids come at the beginning of the program a little bit timid, a little shy," she said. "By the end of the five-week work experience that they go through, and their paid work experience, which is great, they come out with 'I can do it. I've done it. What's next?’ "
Karah Trevino will be participating in the program for the second time this summer.
"It's a process that definitely helps you get situated into work environments," she said.
Last year, the Summer Earn and Learn gave her the opportunity to work her first ever paying job at Walgreens. This year she'll be working at one of the city's libraries.
She said she decided to come back to the program because of the confidence it's given her and the support she's received.
“The people that help you out, that assign you to those internships, are very welcoming and are always open to help,” she said. “They even do check-ins to make sure everything is to your accommodation. If you're not feeling comfortable at the place where you are, they can arrange a change, so they will help you out if you are struggling.”
Coming up this Wednesday, Workforce Solutions Coastal Bend will be hosting its earn and learn signing day at La Palmera mall from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Registration for the program will be available on site for both students and employers.