Inagural Youth Work Initiative Wrapping Up
JACKSON, Tenn. – A program in Jackson and Madison County meant to assist local youth by giving them summer jobs is wrapping up its first year. Now that the program is coming to an end, many of the teens said they have learned a lot from the Gang Prevention Summer Work Initiative The 42 teens that have been working five days a week for six weeks. Each of the participants are paid minimum wage and have the opportunity to gain life skills. The youth selected for the program have previously been charged with crimes like aggravated burglary, underage drinking, or fighting at school. At an event Thursday evening, they will be recognized by city leaders for their hard work and dedication to the program at a banquet at the Carl Perkins Civic Center. 7 Eyewitness News spoke with some of the teens to find out what they’ve gained from the experience. “I’ve become a lot better person than I was 6 weeks ago. I ain’t doin’ none of the stupid stuff I was doing,” said Chad Roaten. “Working here, it makes you stay off the streets from doing stupid stuff,” said Antonio Stewart. The teens in the program have been assigned to a variety of jobs at city and county facilities including the Jackson-Madison County Humane Society, the Juvenile Courthouse, the Train Depot and the Jackson Fire Department.
