Workforce Readiness

To help young people meet the workforce challenges of tomorrow, they need safe spaces, positive mentorship and work experiences today. At Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, we allow kids and teens to:

  • Explore their interests and passions
  • Develop their employability skills
  • Apply their knowledge to real-world work experiences


With the support of education, corporate, and municipal partners, Wakeman Boys & Girls Club is able to bring strategies and opportunities to support youth as they prepare for a career.

Webster Finance Lab

Grades: Ages 14 - 18

Fee: No program fee for Members

Location: Madison Avenue Community Clubhouse

Time: 5:30 - 7:30 PM

Dates: March 4 & 25, April 8 & 22


Join us for a series that focuses on providing the skills needed for financial empowerment and financial literacy, including banking basics, budgeting, credit and more. Dinner is included.


For more information, contact Courtney Sutherland at csutherland@wakemanclub.org.


This program is generously funded by a grant from Webster Bank.

Register Now

ACE Mentoring Program

Grades: 9 - 12

Fee: No program fee for Members

Location: Madison Avenue Community Clubhouse

Learn more by emailing Bryanna Otalvaro at botalvaro@wakemanclub.org or stop by the front desk!


This program is designed to attract high school students into pursuing careers in architecture, construction, and engineering, including skilled trades. Ten mentors from ACE companies, such as Turner, work with the students in groups to excite them about the industry and to complete a culminating architectural project. Through this 15 week program, 30 teens from Bridgeport, Fairfield, Shelton, Trumbull, and surrounding towns have opportunities for summer externships and college scholarships.

Register Now

Bridgeport Fire Cadet Program

Location: Madison Avenue Community Clubhouse

Requirements: Bridgeport High School Juniors & Seniors, ages 17-18

Fee: No cost*

Registration Opens Soon


The Bridgeport Fire Cadet Program is a collaboration between the Bridgeport Fire Department, Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, and the Bridgeport Military Academy and is seeking teens ages 17-18 who attend high school in Bridgeport and want to become Bridgeport Firefighters and have a desire to help others. Candidates should demonstrate leadership ability, understand teamwork, and possess a willingness to work hard to get into top physical condition. 


*Due to a generous grant, the following opportunities will be provided at no cost to qualified candidates:

  • 2-3 screening/training sessions a month
  • 3-day micro fire camp to be held during the April School Vacation
  • 5-day June Fire School to be held in June (by invitation only)
  • Full Membership to Wakeman Boys & Girls Club (includes homework support, sports, fitness and recreation, and character & leadership opportunities.
  • CPAT training and practice including the cost of the CPAT.
  • Mentorship with Bridgeport FD Firefighters/Officers
  • Swim Instruction and Water Rescue Training
  • SWAG/merch included at no cost for program participants.


*Due to a generous grant, this opportunity will be provided at no cost to qualified candidates.

Questions?

Contact Chief George Gomola, Program Director  ggomola@bridgeportedu.net

203-913-5213

Money Matters

Grades: Ages 12-16

Dates/Times: TBA

Fee: Free

Location: Smilow-Burroughs Clubhouse

 

Money Matters: Make it Count teaches tweens and teens how to set goals, budget, save and invest. In addition to staff-led financial literacy sessions, young people practice their financial decision-making skills through fun, engaging digital tools and games. Members who complete Money Matters show improved financial management skills, including saving money and sticking to a budget. Meals are included with each session!


This program is generously funded by Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

College Tours

Grades: 9-12
Dates: March, April, and May
Times: TBA
Location: Trips depart from Smilow-Burroughs Clubhouse


Tours of University of Bridgeport, Sacred Heart, Fairfield University, and University of Connecticut will be available for teens to experience what college life and academics is like. We will have a guided campus tour, information sessions, and meetings with admissions officers.  More information available in March.

Resume Building Workshops

Grades: 9 - 12
Dates: March, April, and May
Location: Smilow-Burroughs


Under the guidance of experienced staff, members will prepare a professional resume that reflects their skills, knowledge, and education as relevant to the workforce and education.  More information available in March.


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