IMMOKALEE, FL - Six lucky youths may soon find themselves dreaming of tomato growing as their future career path.
Lipman Family Farms has partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast and the District School Board of Collier County to create “Beyond School Walls.” A first-of-its-kind mentorship program for local high school students, it will be be sponsored by the generosity of Volunteer Florida, according to a press release.
“We are thrilled to partner with such great organizations for the Beyond School Walls program,” said Jaime Weisinger, Lipman’s Community Relations Director and Board Chairman for Lipman Family Foundation. “The skills that students will gain through this program will be unmatched, and the mentorship program will help guide them to the next steps in their lives and careers.”
The students will shadow Lipman executives for 12 weeks, working with the company and experiencing what it’s like to work for a corporation, learn business etiquette, and identify educational requirements for professional success.
All while under the wing Lipman’s experienced mentors.
“The Beyond School Walls program is a great avenue for vulnerable youth in our community to learn professional skills from local mentors who are committed to seeing them succeed,” said Marianne Weiss, Vice President of Programs for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast. “It is important for young people to be exposed to local employers and see the opportunities for growth right here in Collier County.”
Launched in the beginning of March, the program will run through May 31, with each student having:
- 150 completed hours of work for Lipman Family Farms
- Received one high school credit
- Become eligible for an interview with a Fortune 500 company, set up by the National Academy Foundation
The program looks to help keep students in the Immokalee community by showing them that moving to a big city is not the only choice for those looking for executive positions, and how much staying local has to offer in the way of careers–for the produce industry and beyond.
