JACKSON, Tenn. — (News Release) The Jackson Madison County African American Chamber of Commerce (JMCAACC) will host orientation and interviews for ages 16-18 who are interested in its eight-week Follow Me Into Business® job readiness program for teen workers. Interested teens (and their parents) may attend one of two sessions being offered on Saturday, April 22, 2017 — 10am-12Noon at the Jackson Madison County Library, 433 East Lafayette, or 1pm-3pm at the Huntspon Business Complex, 357 North Royal. For young workers, parental attendance is not required. To preregister, pick up forms at Nell Huntspon Flower Box, 351 North Royal or download forms from the website at www.jmcaacc.org. For more details, call 731.424.2030 or email [email protected].
The Follow Me Into Business® summer jobs training program for teen workers will meet Wednesdays at 9am, beginning June 7 through June 28, 2017. Those who prove themselves ready for job opportunities or internships can begin work as early as July 1. Paid jobs last for four weeks utilizing a grant provided by the City of Jackson and a portion of funds raised during the Follow Me Celebrity Golf Classic in September and the Annual JEWEL Awards Banquet held in February.
These teen workers will have the opportunity to meet leaders from various industries and to learn job readiness skills that lead to success in life and in the workplace. In addition, they and their parents will be invited to a special luncheon hosted by BancorpSouth President Doug Roth.
The Follow Me into Business® Program has benefitted more than 800 young people since it began in 2002 and has remained a free program serving students in Jackson and Madison County. No parent or guardian has ever been charged for a child’s participation in the program. Participants who complete the program receive certificates and $35 stipends if they are 12-15 years old; while, participants who are 16-18 years old and successfully complete the 16-20 hours of required job readiness training are rewarded with a paid job. However, the number of paid jobs is limited by available funding.
JMCAACC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that accepts tax-deductible donations for the Follow Me Stipend Fund housed at First Tennessee. Personal contributions to the African American Chamber of Commerce also are welcome to benefit future participants and to aid in program expansion to include more participants and employers throughout Jackson and Madison County. Tax-deductible contributions should be made payable to “JMCAACC” and mailed 351-C North Royal, Jackson, TN 38301.
JMCAACC is a member organization with membership available to small businesses, corporations, churches and nonprofits. Moreover, those who may not own a business but desire to support Black businesses can join the Chamber as a Supporting Member. Membership applications and Follow Me registration packets are available online at jmcaacc.org. The organization’s mission focuses on membership growth and development, youth entrepreneurial training, and community and economic development.
