Local Leaders to Attend White House Champions of Change Event

Tacoma, Wash. -- Mayor Marilyn Strickland and Tacoma Public Schools Superintendent Carla Santorno are sending delegates to Washington, DC to attend the Summer Opportunity Workshop and Champions of Change Event at the White House on Friday, Feb. 26. The two events will focus on employment and learning opportunities for youth during the summer months. Bill Hanawalt of Peace Center in Tacoma’s Hilltop neighborhood is being recognized as one of nine national winners of the Champion of Change award for his work with in-school, after-school and summer learning programs.
 
In addition to Hanawalt's work with youth, delegates will showcase Summer Jobs 253, a paid summer employment program for Tacoma high school juniors and seniors.  This program includes professional etiquette lessons, resume writing and financial literacy classes. Students can also earn credits for graduation and are encouraged to secure references for future employment. 
 
“I am very proud of our community for providing paid work experience and career planning for our young people during the summer,” Strickland said.  “I've watched students become more confident and make important connections after participating in Summer Jobs 253. Employers value the contributions of the students.”
 
Tacoma is one of 25 cities across the United States invited to the White House to discuss and share strategies for successful summer opportunity programs for students.  For more information on the program, please visit this website.