Workforce program launched for Harrisburg students

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region is partnering with Harrisburg-based Penn National Insurance to launch the Beyond School Walls Youth Mentorship program. 

The program provides workforce development skills for Harrisburg High School – SciTech Campus students through one-to-one mentoring relationships with area professionals.  

Beyond School Walls was established by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America in 2008 to address workforce development needs and job readiness skills. According to a release, the curriculum-based program works with local businesses to introduce students to workplace cultures, team collaboration, and the skills needed to build a foundation for success. 

“We present real world challenges to our students,” Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region (BBBSCR) VP of Programs Amanda Dunn said in a statement. “Students learn to draft innovative business proposals, craft elevator pitches, assess career opportunities and deliver team presentations.” 

BBBSCR’s Beyond School Walls program was launched in 2016. The program connects area students with mentors at Capital Blue Cross, Deloitte, Mid Penn Bank, The GIANT Company, and Penn National Insurance. A launch with UGI is also planned. 

“We are excited to collaborate with Penn National Insurance, to provide our students with a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at a regional employer and equip them with the necessary skills to become enrolled, enlisted or employed after graduation,” said Dunn. 

Volunteer mentors from Penn National Insurance will be matched one-on-one with 11 students from Harrisburg High School – SciTech Campus. The students will explore career opportunities, cultivate essential workplace skills and learn how to foster professional relationships. 

“We are excited to expand our support of BBBSCR to include the Beyond School Walls program and we extend a warm welcome to our students from SciTech,” said President and CEO of Penn National Insurance Bob Brandon. “As a leading employer and community supporter in and around Harrisburg, Beyond School Walls is another opportunity for our employees to support our mission of making life better by mentoring high school students and preparing them for a successful future.” 

The aim of the program is to impact Harrisburg students in a positive way, per a release. 

“PNI mentors have no idea how much they can positively influence the lives of our scholars by providing not just real-world career advice and workforce development opportunities, but by being a safe landing space for our scholars to grow, and share creative ideas, educational goals, and career aspirations,” said Acting Superintendent, Harrisburg School District Dr. Marcia Stokes.