Education
Creating Opportunities for Youth Through Mentoring
By Debbie Rodriguez
Four years ago, Julie and Walter Larkins cofounded Education Equals Opportunity Too, a program serving socially and academically at-risk youth. It is estimated that fifty percent of 16-24 year-old African Americans and Latinos are unemployed. “We either provide funding for our future and theirs, or we provide funding for prisons, welfare, and unemployment. I’d rather pay NOW to change lives,” says Julie.
Walter and Julie Larkins flank two of the mentees
The Larkins saw that many of the young applicants seeking jobs in their business, CDR Financial Services, were not prepared for the workplace. “There is a large population of disenfranchised unemployed youth,” says Walter, “And if we don’t do something, who will?”
A visit from local middle school students to their offices became the impetus to do something. The Larkins identified the skills gap between what employers need and what these youth had to offer and created a mentoring program to fill that gap. Students receive training in effective communication skills, business etiquette, and even how to complete a job application and dress professionally. The goal is academic and professional success. Fieldtrips to other businesses and mentoring by business professionals are an important component of the program, as Walter says, “After all, who would know better what an employer needs than an employer?”
In four years, they have mentored over 240 male and female students at Colin Powell Academy and Washington Middle School, both Long Beach Unified schools. Upon completion of 8th grade, those students who maintain a 3.5 GPA receive a laptop, printer, flash drive, and backpack to reward their success in middle school and assist in their continued success in high school. In high school, those who continue in the program and maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher have access to additional opportunities including continued mentoring, internships, and leadership training.
Youth Mentees
Alofaifo Faleono, a graduate of the Male Academy joined the program because his flag football coach recommended it. Three years later he was his class valedictorian at Colin Powell Academy. “You don’t have to be the smartest one in the classroom to get straight A’s. It just takes time, determination, and dedication,” he said.
Alofaifo Faleono
And he certainly has learned about dedication. He now attends Jordan High School’s International Baccalaureate program and is a well-spoken, confident, and college-bound leader. “I kept my priorities straight, I learned how to be a good leader and I learned good etiquette. And I still had time to have fun.” He also had time to tutor fellow students in middle school and now tutors fellow students in math, geometry and science.
Many of the students served by Education Equals Opportunity Too could have easily ended up being a statistic. Julie and Walter Larkins aren’t willing to stand on the sidelines and watch. That’s why they invest their time and resources in connecting the dots between education and employment. It’s a win-win opportunity for our youth and the community!
