As Las Vegas continues to make national headlines because of the declining local economy, Latin Chamber members are making a big difference in the lives of 35 deserving youths seeking to gain life skills and work experience. In June, the Las Vegas Latin Chamber of Commerce (LVLCC) was contracted by the Southern Nevada Workforce Investment Board (SNWIB) to provide 35 eligible youths with Summer Youth Training as part of an innovative LCC pilot project. The Latin Chamber of Commerce Summer Youth Training (LCC-SYT) program is currently collaborating with other community organizations and chamber business members to help these youths receive summer training and relevant work experience.

After receiving three (3) weeks of classroom instruction in relevant life, entrepreneurial and financial literacy skills, all thirty-five (35) individuals were successfully placed for (5) weeks of subsidized work experience training with select LVLCC member businesses and organizations. Participating members include businesses such as North Vista Hospital, State Farm Insurance, UNLV Center for Business and Economic Research, MGM MIRAGE, Dempsey Graphics, and fifteen other committed Southern Nevada businesses.

We are honored to have been chosen to participate in this innovative program, which allows us to showcase our facility and present health care as a viable career option for a new generation of talented and ambitious business professionals," stated Leanna Nalley, Human Resources Director at North Vista Hospital. "The four individuals who have been working at the hospital through this program are experiencing first-hand the vital services we provide to the community and how rewarding a career in health care can be."

Additionally, participating youths were each provided a $200 stipend for business attire and clothing as they prepared for their respective worksites. The Burlington Store on Eastern and Tropicana had a busy Saturday on July 11th as the youths scurried throughout the store to select and purchase the most suitable attire in preparation for their five weeks of work experience.

To be eligible for the LCC-SYT Program, youths had to meet age requirements, income guidelines, and additional criteria established by the Department of Labor's Workforce Investment Act (WIA) in accordance with the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). For more information about WIA or ARRA, please visit www.dol.gov/recovery.

The Latin Chamber of Commerce has been fostering youth leadership and education for over two decades with programs such as: the Latino Youth Leadership Program, Career Day, and scholarships totaling over $1.2 million since 1985. For more information about the Las Vegas Latin Chamber of Commerce or the Summer Youth Training program, please visit www.lvlcc.com or contact the Chamber at 702.385.7367 and/or send an email to info@lvlcc.com.