MYEP Intern Spotlight

This was our third summer welcoming interns from the Mayor’s Youth Employment Program. MYEP provides Charlotte youth between the ages of 16 and 18 with equitable career development opportunities to explore the world of work, build social capital, and enhance economic mobility. Jordin and Eboni were amazing additions to our team, and it was a blessing getting to know them as they worked hard to help us plan and execute LHCC summer camps. We wish them all the best in their next steps, and trust that God has beautiful plans for their lives. Read more about their time with us below.

Jordin, rising Senior at Palisades High School writes:

This summer, I had the privilege of serving as a Summer Camp Counselor Intern at Learning Help Centers of Charlotte through the Mayor’s Youth Employment Program. As a 17-year-old student, this opportunity allowed me to gain valuable work experience while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children in my community.

Throughout the summer, I helped lead active learning activities that encouraged teamwork, confidence, and creativity. One of my favorite activities was leading a baking class where the campers and I made Rice Krispies treats. It was exciting to watch them work together and have fun, although some of them could not resist sneaking marshmallows from the bag before we even finished the recipe! Seeing their smiles and excitement made moments like these unforgettable.

Some of my favorite memories came during free time and reading time. Whether we were playing volleyball together or sharing stories during reading sessions, I loved building relationships with the campers and watching them grow throughout the summer.

The most meaningful part of this experience was the connections I formed with the children, especially the young girls. Over time, I began to feel like a big sister to many of them. They would come to me for advice about friendships, school, and everyday challenges, and I always tried to encourage them and be someone they could trust. At the same time, they impacted me more than they know. Even on difficult days, their energy, kindness, and laughter always found a way to make me smile.

I also enjoyed learning more about Hispanic culture and experiencing different traditions and perspectives. As a faith-based organization, Learning Help Centers helped children grow spiritually as well, and it was inspiring to watch them grow closer to God throughout the summer.

This internship strengthened my passion for working with children and reinforced my goal of becoming a pediatric psychiatric nurse. It taught me valuable lessons about leadership, communication, compassion, and the importance of being a positive role model.

I am incredibly grateful to the Mayor’s Youth Employment Program and Learning Help Centers of Charlotte for this opportunity. The memories, relationships, and lessons I gained this summer will stay with me for years to come.

Eboni, rising senior at Myers Park High School writes:

Hello! My name is Eboni Clark, and I had a great chance to be an intern at Learning Help Center of Charlotte. My experience as a summer camp volunteer was very lovely. I was mainly responsible for helping the participants throughout the program; I provided guidance and answered questions, aiming to ensure everyone was well-known for their activities.

Some of my most exciting memories were playing games with the kids during free time, them help me learn some Spanish, cooking with them, and reading with them. Those were just a few of the many little things that I enjoyed, because the little moments matter the most to me.

The most important thing I learned at my volunteer work was that leadership is important. I learned that being a present leader includes setting examples, being patient with others, listening to them, and helping them too. By interacting with the participants, I developed my communication and teamwork abilities.

This volunteering experience really helped me grow personally, as I developed my leadership abilities and realized how important it was to serve people in general. I am thankful for my experience at this Summer Camp and hope to continue my volunteering work in the future.

I would like to say a huge thank you to Ms. Elaine and Ms. Olivia for having me and allowing me to spend my time this summer doing what I love most. I can't express how grateful I am. I would also like to say thank you to the Mayor’s Youth Employment Program for giving me a chance and allowing me to experience this great opportunity.