The City of Hilliard’s Recreation and Parks Department has served as the first step into the workforce for many area teens over the years. And, as is often the case with a first job, working for the City sets the foundation for future careers, education, and leadership opportunities.

That was part of the reason the Recreation and Parks staff Leadership and Mentorship Program was created: To teach young people lifelong skills they can use for their future success.

“For jobs ranging from lifeguards to maintenance crews, we hire nearly 200 seasonal and part-time employees each year,” said Erin Duffee, Deputy Director of Recreation and Parks. “For many of these people, it’s their first job and their introduction to the workforce. So, we believe it is important to teach these young people additional skills that will help them throughout their lives.”

For example, the Leadership and Mentorship Program gives young people opportunities for in-service training, job shadowing, career development, and one-on-one mentorship.

“In addition to the specific job-related training that is needed for each position, employees receive micro trainings in leadership, customer service, professionalism, diversity training, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, certifications, and verbal, nonverbal, and written communication skills,” Duffee said. “We provide resume and cover letter writing critiques, as well as advice and review of college application materials.”

Duffee said that, each season, the full time Recreation and Parks staff creates a more in-depth leadership training module based on department needs.

“Not only are the Recreation and Parks Department’s positions fun summer jobs, they are professional experiences that will stay with employees for a lifetime,” Duffee said. “We are always proud to see a young person who started out at the City of Hilliard go on to succeed in school and in their careers. We like to think the opportunities they received here were the foundation for that success.”

Even if future aspirations don’t align with a career in Recreation and Parks, this program and job opportunity has benefits. Many of these employees get opportunities to job shadow or be mentored by staff from other departments around the City.