We’re celebrating CIS’ 30th anniversary, and we’re excited to highlight a trailblazing partnership that’s helped equip young people in Philadelphia with the skills to succeed in their future careers. For seven years, we’ve worked with Simon Gratz, a Mastery Charter School, to help students with disabilities develop the skills, confidence, and experience to pursue quality careers. Each year, we work with students like Jabari (pictured in the happy and mask-less pre-COVID days) to help connect them to internship and work experiences at businesses and organizations throughout Philadelphia.
Jabari’s experience is a good snapshot to tell the story of the broader whole. He’s smart, creative, kind, and caring, and wants to do work that leaves a positive imprint on the world, so we helped connect him to opportunities at places like Manna; a local co-op; and the City of Philadelphia’s Recycling Initiative program—all places and programs aiming to make the earth a better place.
Through grant projects, Pre-Employment Transition Services, and other creative initiatives, CIS and Mastery have been able to give a generation at Gratz the kinds of hands-on experience and training that give students like Jabari the confidence and skills to pursue the jobs of their dreams.
This partnership is just one of many in CIS School to Work Transition services. Head to our School to Work page to learn more!