Education & Career Development

CareerLaunch is a comprehensive 20-session career exploration program that helps teens ages 13-18 discover their interests, explore career options, and develop the job-readiness skills employers are looking for. Through self-assessments, career research, and hands-on activities, participants gain clarity about their strengths and the careers that match them.

Sessions cover resume writing, job interview techniques, professional communication, workplace etiquette, and networking. Teens also have opportunities to hear from local professionals and visit workplaces in the community. By the end of the program, each participant has a polished resume and a clearer vision for their future.

diplomas2Degrees is a college readiness program that guides teens through the entire process of preparing for and applying to college. From understanding college options and financial aid to completing applications and writing personal statements, this program demystifies higher education and makes it accessible to first-generation college students.

Staff mentors work one-on-one with teens to identify schools that fit their interests and budget, navigate the FAFSA, research scholarship opportunities, and prepare for campus visits. The program also connects teen members to exclusive BGCK scholarship opportunities through Carthage College and Herzing University.

Money Matters is a financial literacy program designed to teach teens the fundamentals of managing money. Through interactive lessons and real-world exercises, participants learn about budgeting, saving, banking, credit, debt, and the basics of investing. The program empowers teens to make informed financial decisions as they enter adulthood.

Topics include opening a bank account, understanding pay stubs and taxes, building credit responsibly, avoiding predatory lending, and setting financial goals. Members practice with realistic scenarios and develop a personal budget they can use in their daily lives.

Just like our youth program, teen Power Hour provides dedicated time every day for homework help, test preparation, and academic support. Staff members and volunteer tutors are available to assist with all subjects. The Teen Center is equipped with computers, reference materials, and a quiet study area.

For teens working toward graduation, Power Hour is especially valuable. Staff track academic progress and work with school counselors when needed to ensure members stay on track. Power Hour also includes ACT/SAT prep resources and college application support during the fall semester.

BE GREAT: Graduate is a dropout prevention and academic intervention program that targets teens who are at risk of not completing high school. Through individualized case management, academic monitoring, mentoring, and family engagement, the program works to remove barriers to graduation and keep teens on track.

Staff connect with school administrators and families to identify warning signs early, including poor attendance, failing grades, and behavioral challenges. Then they develop a personalized plan for each participant that addresses the root causes and provides the support needed to stay in school and earn a diploma.