Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County is grateful to have received a $100,000 grant from the Taco Bell Foundation to support at-risk youth here in Polk County. These funds will go toward our workforce readiness program for teens, providing them with crucial skills and experience they can use to achieve their full potential.
BGC Polk is one of nearly 500 youth-serving organizations nationwide that will receive a portion of the $28 million in Community Grants presented by the Taco Bell Foundation this year. These grants are an important example of the Taco Bell Foundation’s mission to break down barriers to education and fuel young people’s boldest ambitions.
Our workforce readiness program is designed to help teens prepare for life beyond high school by building confidence, communication skills, and career knowledge. Through workshops, mentorship, and hands-on experiences, teens are able to practice leadership, learn the value of teamwork, and explore career pathways they may have never considered.
We are excited to have Taco Bell Foundation as a partner in closing the opportunity and job readiness gap and helping young people develop a plan to pursue the career of their dreams. Since beginning in 2019, this program has helped over 100 of our teenage members explore potential career fields, develop their skillsets, and earn community service hours. Many have gone on to internships, part-time jobs, and even scholarships that further their education.
To celebrate the renewal of this partnership, a group of our teens and staff members visited a local Taco Bell restaurant last Friday. They enjoyed snacks, connected with Taco Bell team members, and shared how the program has already impacted their futures. It was a chance to reflect on the progress made and get energized about the opportunities ahead.
The support of the Taco Bell Foundation means more young people in Polk County will be able to access the tools they need to succeed in the classroom, in the workplace, and in life.
To learn more about the programs BGC Polk has to offer, click here.