De’Anthony Roaf loves science, but while attending Camp Rise last summer, he discovered that being an entrepreneur might be possible or maybe even mayor, like Cavalier Johnson. At 13, he still has time before settling into a career.
“It was an amazing summer. We learned about Black History and discussed the richest man on earth and slave auctions,” Roaf said. “I introduced Mayor Johnson when he came to my class to discuss how he grew up and became mayor. I learned a lot and got paid for it.”
This week, hundreds of youth will take part in the free seven-week summer camp, which pays Milwaukee kids 10-13 $200 a week. Students take field trips to different businesses; participate in career exploration; clean up parks; do teamwork drills; receive mentoring throughout the community; and get to spend time with leaders like the mayor, Chief of Police Jeffrey Norman and County Executive David Crowley.
Camp Rise and similar early employment programs are critical to Milwaukee youth because they teach skills like showing up and being on time. Participants also receive mentorship from Voices of the Elders, retired Black professional men, to create lifelong bonds. The mentors may be the critical component because it gives children a chance to talk about things, at home, and in their personal lives, they may not be able to speak with anyone else about.
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