In an effort to better prepare Petersburg’s eighth and ninth grade students for the workforce, the Petersburg Chamber of Commerce, District 19 Community Services Board, as well as Hopewell and Prince George County have sponsored “The JOBS Program.” They believe that businesses teaching business to the youth will assist students on their path of success.

The JOBS program has targeted students earlier in life to provide them with the essential skills that will give them a head start to getting the job of their choice. The program is scheduled to meet weekly and teaches the basic principles of character development and career readiness. To assist the students with the development of those skills, professionals from public service, banking and several other fields come in during their sessions. At the end of the year the students test their knowledge and are able to reinforce what they have learned by working a summer job.

The program has grown in great ways since it began first in Hopewell and Prince George County. The registration is free. Fifteen applicants are usually selected. Phase One consists of 17 sessions which are held in the Petersburg High School library. During the summer each student then works 20 hours a week for minimum wage, as long as they are at least 14 to 15 years of age. Some of the jobs include Southside Regional Medical Center, the Sheriff’s Office, Petersburg Parks and Recreation and additional businesses and agencies.

The Jobs program began with one small group of students and has now moved forward to Petersburg. With this program, students will be able to hear from professionals in a position they hope to be in someday. These students of Petersburg will be well equipped to reach the goals of their lives.