Staff Reports
The Journal-Register
ALBION —
The youth at Pathstone recently learned how to run a successful business operation.
In June, participants of the Youth Enrichment Program created a plan to sell candy, beverages and toys at a booth at the Strawberry Festival in Albion. After the two-day event, the youths raised a total of $356.
After considering the many organizations that exist locally, they decided to donate the money to Community Action of Orleans and Genesee.
According to Marcell Taylor, youth education and career specialist for Pathstone, the kids decided to give the money to Community Action because, “like Pathstone, Community Action does so many wonderful things for the community.”
“When you have an idea to raise money, people jump on it because it’s competitive,” he added.
Community Action’s Director of Community Service Annette Finch said the organization is grateful to be working with Pathstone.
“We’re just so happy to have Pathstone as a partner of Community Action,” she said. “Marcell’s done a great job with this program. We’re hoping for more events in the future.”
“The things these kids have accomplished by working with him are outstanding,” added Carlton Little, training employment manager at Pathstone.
Community Action will use the money donated to help local families in need, Finch said.
The Pathstone Youth Enrichment Program started in 2009 with 15 at-risk youth. In 2010, the program enrolled an additional 15 youth whose parents worked on Niagara County farms.
The program was started with the intent to help youth obtain summer employment and go on to higher education once they finish high school. All of the participants are in high school, and they have been able to tour colleges and meet with professionals to discuss career options.
This is the second year the Pathstone Youth Enrichment Program participated in the Strawberry Festival.
