OUR PROGRAMS & SERVICES

Comprehensive workforce development for Durham youth ages 16-24

SUMMIT SCHOLARS

Our flagship 12-week cohort-based career accelerator serving 80 youth annually across four cohorts.

What You Get:

  • 12 weeks of intensive career readiness training
  • Weekly group sessions + 1:1 coaching
  • Career exploration and industry exposure
  • Direct connections to hiring managers and employers
  • Resume development, interview prep, professional skills training
  • Mentorship from industry professionals
  • Financial literacy workshops and life skills training
  • Post-program alumni support and job placement assistance

Who It's For:
Youth ages 16-24 in Durham County seeking career clarity, professional skills, and employment pathways

Time Commitment:
12 weeks | 2-hour weekly sessions | Individual coaching throughout

Cost:
Free

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COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIPS

Open-access programming for all Durham youth ages 16-24.

What You Get:

  • Drop-in workshops and skill-building sessions
  • Networking events and industry panels
  • Access to career resources and job postings
  • Finance Fridays (financial literacy training)
  • Saturday Academy (family engagement programming)
  • Connection to alumni network and community events

Who It's For:
All Durham youth ages 16-24—no application required

Cost:
Free

ALUMNI PROGRAMMING

Ongoing support and leadership development for DSS graduates.

What You Get:

  • Continued career coaching and job search support
  • Professional development workshops
  • Alumni networking events
  • Leadership opportunities (ambassador roles, coaching, facilitation)
  • First access to new job opportunities and partnerships
  • Community membership and peer support network

Who It's For:
DSS Summit Scholars program graduates

Cost:
Free

POP UP TALKS

A unique space for deliberative dialogue between high impact community leaders and  youth to help them make connections and build more confidence in articulating their vision for community. Youth can practice their networking skills, share business cards, and gain insight on potential career and educational opportunities available.