The Reisenbach/ Youth Link internship program with the Police Athletic League (PAL) focuses on a group of teen-aged participants, most of whom come from low-income households. The internship program offers tutoring services which immensely improves their grammar, spelling, and communication skills. These internships also provides individual counseling, group workshops, court advocacy, gang prevention, and sports and recreational activities. For these groups of adolescents, the internships become vital forms of job training and career preparation. Often times, these participants desperately need a job for themselves to be able to contribute to their household’s income. For many, this is their first job experience.
When he was referred to the PAL in August 2012, Shamez was convinced he did not need the Youth Link program and was adamant about not connecting to PAL. Facing an assault charge and given 60 days of adjustment, he only wanted to complete the terms of his probation and move on. Later, when a Reisenbach Foundation/Youth Link internship opportunity was presented to him, on the condition that he would take his studies more seriously, Shamez jumped at the opportunity, in order to have money of his own.
He struggled in the program initially, finding it hard to divide time between Youth Link and his friends. But with the encouragement of tutors and Youth Link staff, Shamez quickly developed bonds with other Youth Link members and began to understand what true friendship and responsibility was. Now a 17 year old high school senior, he’s become an exemplary Reisenbach/Youth Link intern.
Here’s what his tutor had to say about him: “I met Shamez in early 2014, and I knew instantly that our sessions would be filled with insight, knowledge, and laughter. Shamez has found the key and matured tremendously. He has turned busy work into a stepping stone that leads to accomplishing his goals, which has instilled in him a passion to transcend mediocrity and improve his grades. He’s learned to consider others when making decisions. He has become a critical thinker who’s developed a curiosity and interest about the world. Shamez is well on his way to showing the world the exceptionally bright young man that I know him to be. His potential is limitless.”
For more information visit their website.
