Volunteers Inspire Career Aspirations in Manatee County 4th Graders

On Thursday, March 13th, the Manatee Chamber of Commerce celebrated the 32nd anniversary of Project TEACH (Teach Everyone About Career Horizons), an initiative designed to enhance career awareness among 4th-grade students throughout Manatee County. Over 150 volunteers from various sectors visited 150 classrooms, sharing insights about their professions and encouraging students to envision their future careers.

The day commenced with a volunteer breakfast at the district’s Wakeland Support Center, where participants received orientation before dispersing to their assigned schools. In the classrooms, volunteers engaged students in discussions about the significance of first impressions and their diverse career opportunities. Activities included interactive sessions where students guessed details about the volunteers, fostering curiosity and dialogue about different professions.

Project TEACH is one of several educational and workforce programs spearheaded by the Manatee Chamber Foundation, aiming to bridge the gap between education and the professional world. By involving community members directly in the educational process, the program inspires students to explore various career paths and understand the steps necessary to achieve their goals.

The success of this year's event underscores the community's dedication to fostering the next generation's aspirations and ensuring that students are equipped with the knowledge and motivation to pursue their dreams.