BDS Welcomes the “School to Work” and “IRCO” Students for Summer Internships

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July 2007

BDS Welcomes the “School to Work” and “IRCO” Students for Summer Internships - Printable Version - July 3, 2007 - 3 Comments

On July 2, 2007, BDS welcomed students from Portland Public Schools’ School to Work Program and IRCO (Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization) to the bureau to participate in short-term summer internships offered by the bureau. Both of these programs are designed to focus on career development by educating, preparing and hiring high school students during the summer.

In total we have ten students, working in various sections: Site Development, Administrative Services, Compliance Services, Development Services Center, Customer Service, Information Technology, Combination Inspections, Signs/Electrical Inspections and Neighborhood Inspections. In addition, to learning about and performing duties for these sections, the students will be touring the Armory in Northwest Portland, the OHSU Tram and attending a council meeting. Students will also have the opportunity to meet with Commissioner Randy Leonard and learn about his biodiesel initiative.

This program is intended to encourage, mentor and provide our youth with tools for success in their future careers. In return, the City of Portland is hopeful that some of these students will choose future careers with us. Stay tuned for more information on this pilot internship program.

For more information, contact Program Outreach Coordinator, Tiffani Penson at (503) 823-1109.

Submitted by Tiffani Penson

BDS Program Outreach Coordinator

Comments

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Posted by: Leroy Grant - July 03, 2007 07:14 PM

Good article. Keep up the good work with the kids.

Posted by: Marchelle Becher - July 05, 2007 01:41 PM

More communities need programs like this, the opportunity for students to learn a skill, take pride in their city and have access to the benefits this program offers. A worthwhile cause, that takes time and dedication. Thank you for developing a program that allows children to make a positive difference and earn respect within the community.

Posted by: Janice Dole - July 19, 2007 03:18 PM

I have one of the students from Parkrose and I must say these students are a pleasure to work with and I'm VERY happy to be participating as a mentor. For most of these students it's one of their first jobs and this type of position is a great way to learn what's expected in the workforce and establish good work ethics. On the other side, it's a please to learn about their lives and in some cases about their country of origin. I hope to see this program continue and be expanded!

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