A core element of Team Read’s dual-impact impact model is our emphasis on supporting and empowering teens as leaders. As part of that focus, Team Read is hosting monthly development workshops for our teen coaches to help them work on tutoring skills and consider future school and career choices. The workshop topics are selected based on direct input from the teens. Most recently, we held an interactive Career Day Workshop, featuring Team Read alumni and other volunteers who shared insights about working in the technology, business, education, health, and non-profit/social change sectors.
Teens and volunteers gathered in virtual breakout rooms, where panelists discussed how they chose their careers and what they’ve learned along the way. The teens asked questions and received career tips, learning resources, and encouragement. Team Read alumni noted how their experience as reading coaches made a positive impact on their careers. Some panelists highlighted their personal attributes and how these helped them to succeed or change course along the way.
The Team Read alumni and other volunteers represented an impressive group of companies and organizations, including Amazon, Microsoft, Lyft, and TIDAL; FirstRule Group, Seattle University and Bellevue College, Kaiser Permanente, Representative Adam Smith’s office, and nonprofits Hey Mentor, Mary’s Place, and Nurturing Roots. The teens met with an inspiring group of professionals, including software and mechanical engineers, managing directors, marketers, teachers, a doctor and nursing managers, and nonprofit executives.
The Career Day workshop resonated with our teen coaches, many of whom are sorting out what path they want to pursue after high school. Here’s what some of the coaches said:
“The most interesting part was hearing from panelists about what made them go into their careers, which had to do a lot with passion. And being able to hear their advice for their high school selves, for us, and for college.”
“I think it was interesting to see how skills from Team Read appeared in people’s careers in fields that weren’t just education.”
“I think it is really cool to hear firsthand experiences like this.”
A huge thank you to our alumni and all the volunteers who generously shared their time and knowledge with our teen coaches! Are you interested in supporting or observing a workshop? Contact us at development@teamread.org – we’d love to connect with you!