After the 2017 Summer Youth Initiative Job Fair, Grand Blanc High School Senior Haley Williams had a difficult time choosing which summer job to accept.
“I received six offers,” said Williams. “But of course, I could only choose one.”
Williams ultimately chose Motherly Intercession, an organization that provides resources to children of people who are or have been incarcerated. At the end of her summer position, she was one of two people who were promoted to Peer Mentor where she now works after school.
Below, find out what Williams plans for her future and how TeenQuest has helped her on her journey:
What does a typical day look like at Motherly Intercession?
I provide tutoring in reading and math, serve food and assist with recreational activities. I also provide mentoring support and services and have clerical responsibilities.
What is your favorite part about your job?
I enjoy giving the children a chance to express their feelings and emotions. Since working here, I understand them better and the difficulties they face. It makes me feel blessed to have everything I have in my life and I am grateful to be able to help those who do not.
What lessons from TeenQuest helped you on your path to your current position?
Lessons in communication, conflict resolution and teamwork have helped me in my current role at Motherly Intercession. I can provide academic, social and emotional support by talking and listening to the children. I utilize conflict resolution skills to help resolve issues between the children. We work together as a team to provide services and support to the children and their caregivers.
What memorable moment do you have from Summer Youth Initiative?
Volunteer Day. We cleaned abandoned homes, removed trash and debris from neighborhoods, parks, and vacant lots. We were outside in the scorching heat! I was uncomfortable, but I pushed through it. And I’m glad I did. It felt good to see the work that we did to help revitalize the community.
What are your plans for the future?
I would like to become an entrepreneur and manage my own full-service salon or dental office.
How do you plan on pursuing this?
I am currently part of Grand Blanc High School’s Career & Technical Education program working toward a career in cosmetology. I plan to work part-time in cosmetology while I am working on my associates degree in dental hygiene. Then I will work part-time in either cosmetology or dental hygiene while I work toward my Bachelor’s degree in business management.
What advice can you offer current TeenQuest students?
Absorb as much information as possible and finish the program strong. The employment training and leadership skills that you gain from the program will prepare you for the workforce.
TeenQuest and Summer Youth Initiative are made possible through the generous support of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation.
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