Worcester Youth Leadership Institute

Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce leads program to introduce youth 15 – 21 to area businesses and civic leadership 

While many students traditionally have headed-off to summer vacations, for the past 11 years, some area high school and college students have participated in the Worcester Youth Leadership Institute. The program offers students an in-person, six-week learning experience and exposure to a variety of businesses, Worcester industry, and mentors.  The Institute, is part of a broader effort by the Chamber of Commerce to develop and mentor Worcester’s future leaders.

The Institute is a partnership between the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, MassHire Central Workforce Board, the United Way of Central Massachusetts, United Families for Change, Worcester Community Action Council, and the City of Worcester’s Youth Opportunities Office and DPH, with support from National Grid, the sponsors of this program.

“The goal is simple – expose Worcester’s young people to the myriad of businesses, leaders, mentors, and possibilities available in their own communities,” said Timothy Murray, president and CEO, Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce. “These students are our future leaders. We want them to know and understand that their community can offer them a unique college experience and fascinating job opportunities, and provide insight and perspective on the city’s history, leadership, business community, and government make-up.”

Each summer, the Institute identifies 25 youth ages 15 – 21 who are participating in the city’s YouthWorks employment program and who were nominated by their employer. They are participating in a six-week, summer leadership program as part of their employment program.

“We think this is an awesome opportunity to enhance our employment program,” said Jeff Turgeon, executive director, MassHire Central Workforce Board. “These students have already shown initiative by participating in the YouthWorks program, and by offering an extended learning experience outside of the typical workday, are able to give them a unique experience and hopefully a greater appreciation for their community.”

The program launched in 2014 after conversations between Tim Murray, and George Smith and Ron Scott from United Families for Change, as well as Mayor Joseph Petty, City Manager Edward Augustus, and City Councilors Philip Palmieri and Sarai Rivera. All of the partner organizations came together and have graduated 200 students over the past 11 years.

“We want to continue to engage graduates from previous summers to help build a sense of community for future and past participants in this program,” stated Raquel Castro-Corazzini, Youth Opportunities Coordinator for the City of Worcester.