Archived News Release: March 5, 2020 - Neutral Zone and the City of Ann Arbor will host Signing Day on March 31, a celebratory lunch event to recognize youth who will enter into temporary city employment contracts as part of their participation in Future Corps. * This event is being rescheduled for a future date.
Neutral Zone, a diverse, youth-driven arts and leadership center, is dedicated to promoting personal growth through the artistic expression of community leadership and the exchange of ideas. Launched in August 2019, Future Corps aims to fill a gap in support of the successful transition of youth to adulthood through employment, education, coaching and mentorship opportunities for youth ages 18-24 for two to four years.
Future Corps' youth will complete the following:
Readiness training program to build critical skills, access community opportunities and establish a community cohort of peers to support their participation.
Temporary employment with the City of Ann Arbor.
A two-year associate degree or technical certification at Washtenaw Community College.
Ongoing mentorship from members across the community.
Individual coaching and support from Neutral Zone staff.
Lori Roddy, the executive director of Neutral Zone, shares the tremendous support that the community has offered to launch this program, “Future Corps is truly a demonstration that our community cares deeply about its youth; and that when youth have consistently faced disparities, they need support, resources and opportunities. After just months, our young people have expressed tremendous hope as they enter adulthood."
Future Corps relies on strong community partners — Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority, Michigan Works!, Washtenaw Community College, Wireless Zone, Corner Health and Ozone House.
Neutral Zone is grateful for support from AT&T, City of Ann Arbor, Domino's, James A. & Faith Knight Foundation, Toyota and United Way.
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