Workforce Readiness

To help young people meet the workforce challenges of tomorrow, they need safe spaces, positive mentorship and work experiences today. At Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, we allow kids and teens to:

  • Explore their interests and passions
  • Develop their employability skills
  • Apply their knowledge to real-world work experiences


With the support of education, corporate, and municipal partners, Wakeman Boys & Girls Club is able to bring strategies and opportunities to support youth as they prepare for a career.


Bridgeport Fire Cadet Program

Location: Madison Avenue Community Clubhouse

Requirements: Bridgeport High School Juniors & Seniors, ages 17-18

Fee: No cost*

Register Online beginning January 22, 2024


The Bridgeport Fire Cadet Program is a collaboration between the Bridgeport Fire Department, Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, and the Bridgeport Military Academy and is seeking teens ages 17-18 who attend high school in Bridgeport and want to become Bridgeport Firefighters and have a desire to help others. ▪Candidates should demonstrate leadership ability, understand teamwork, and possess a willingness to work hard to get into top physical condition.


*Due to a generous grant, the following opportunities will be provided at no cost to qualified candidates:

  • 2-3 screening/training sessions a month beginning in January 2024 ▪
  • 3-day micro fire camp to be held during the April School Vacation
  • 5-day June Fire School to be held June 17-21 (by invitation only)
  • Full Membership to Wakeman Boys & Girls Club (includes homework support, sports, fitness and recreation, and character & leadership opportunities.
  • CPAT training and practice including the cost of the CPAT.
  • Mentorship with Bridgeport FD Firefighters/Officers
  • Swim Instruction and Water Rescue Training
  • SWAG/merch included at no cost for program participants.
Register

Questions?

Contact Chief George Gomola, Program Director  ggomola@bridgeportedu.net

203-913-5213


Webster Finance Lab

Grades: 8-12

Fee: No program fee for Members

Location: Madison Avenue Community Clubhouse

Time: 6-7pm

Dates: March 5: Banking Basics

March 12: Banking Basics Workshop

March 19: Saving & Budgeting Presentation

March 26: Saving & Budgeting Workshop

April 2: Understanding Credit Presentation

April 9: Understanding Credit Workshop

Register Online beginning March 1


Join us for this new series that focuses on providing the skills needed for financial empowerment and financial literacy. Dinner is included!

This program is generously funded by a grant from Webster Bank.




ACES Mentoring

Grades: 9-12

Fee: No program fee for Members

Location: Madison Avenue Community Clubhouse

Learn more by emailing jochoa@wakemanclub.org or stop by the front desk!


This program is designed to attract high school students into pursuing careers in architecture, construction, and engineering, including skilled trades. Ten mentors from ACE companies, such as Turner, work with the students in groups to excite them about the industry and to complete a culminating architectural project. Through this 15 week program, 30 teens from Bridgeport, Fairfield, Shelton, Trumbull, and surrounding towns have opportunities for summer externships and college scholarships.


diplomas2Degrees

Locations: Madison Avenue Community Clubhouse & Smilow-Burroughs Clubhouse



diplomas2Degrees (d2D), a college readiness program, provides a range of services to guide Club members as they work toward high school graduation and prepare for post-secondary education and career success. More information coming soon!

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