Teens get a taste of real world
CRANBERRY TWP — A group of teens got some preparation for the real world through a unique camp experience.
The state Office of Vocational Rehabilitation hosted a weeklong camp, “The Academy,” for students ages 16 to 19 at Camp Kon-O-Kwee Spencer in Fombell in Beaver County to prepare students for the world of work and post-secondary education, said Gail Steck, district administrator for the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation in New Castle.
Last week, the group stopped at the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex in Cranberry Township to hear about the wide variety of careers available at UPMC and take a facility tour.
“We wanted you to know that these types of careers are attainable,” said Lori Kennedy, business services representative with the vocational rehabilitation office.
The 21 teens were pulled from the office's customer base in Butler, Beaver, Lawrence and Armstrong counties.
Throughout the week at the academy, students participated in a variety of classes and activities covering team-building, self-advocacy, workplace readiness, finances, etiquette, nutrition and more. They were also exposed to different careers and heard presentations from businesses.
Megan Slagle of Kittanning said she loves everything about the academy and the experiences she's had there. This is her second year taking part in the program. One of her favorite parts of the week was the team-building exercises.
“A lot of jobs you need to work on a team,” she said. “It's a crucial part.”
The Office of Vocation Rehabilitation, part of the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, helps people with disabilities gain skills necessary to live and work independently in their communities.
Its services include diagnostic services, vocational evaluation and counseling, job training, medical services and assistive technology equipment.
This is the second year for the academy, Kennedy said.
While at the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex, students heard from a nurse manager, medical assistant, registered sports nutritionist, X-ray technician, sports management administrators and a representative from the physical therapy department.
Robert Harrison of Brighton Township, Beaver County, said he felt the academy prepared him well for college through its various activities.
“Some of my questions about college were answered this week,” he said. Harrison will attend the Community College of Beaver County in September.
On the final day, the students presented what they learned in front of an audience of about 100 people, using some of the public speaking and presentation skills they acquired during the week.
Daniel Mortimer of Aliquippa said he enjoyed building relationships with the other students and staff members. He said the academy did more than just prepare them for the next step in life. It helped them become better people.
“This is just good for anybody, not just those with special challenges,” Mortimer said.
