As a small-business owner, I’ve noticed there are many eager young people who possess talent, but need to be given the proper opportunities in order to cultivate their entrepreneurial spirit. I took it upon myself to develop a program that did just that — provided young people with education and resources about professional careers. The program provides hands-on workshops, tours of industry-leading businesses, and courses in leadership development. In less than three years, this program has already encouraged over 600 youth in the Pacific Northwest to pursue STEM careers.
That is why I signed Small Business Majority’s youth opportunity pledge, to encourage other small-business owners to join me in fostering strong workforces for the future. After all, more than 6.7 million young Americans are out of work and need our help. Small businesses have a unique opportunity to support and mentor our youth, who have the talent and initiative to drive our economy forward.
Doing positive work in your community and running a business is not mutually exclusive. I hope my fellow entrepreneurs join me by visiting this organization’s website, http://www.smallbiz4youth.com/, and pledging to help foster the strong workforces of tomorrow.
Deena Pierott
Vancouver
