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In early
August, the Foundation awarded the West Virginia Center for
Entrepreneurial Enterprise (WVCEE) a grant for $5,000.
WVCEE, a newly formed nonprofit, seeks to provide education
and opportunity for West Virginians who are interested in
developing their personal capacity to contribute to the
social and economic future of our state. They offer
workshops, seminars, conferences, and mentoring experiences
that expose their clients to positive steps they can take to
empower themselves through education, employment,
entrepreneurial pursuit, networking, and community service.
This summer, over twenty middle and high school students
participated in a week long summer day camp that was
designed to expose at-risk, low-income youth to the positive
choices they can make that will potentially lead them to
employment opportunities or entrepreneurial ventures through
their interest in art and culture. During the week long
program, the eclectic group of young entrepreneurs formed a
small company called the Fudge Factory. Participants in the
program came up with a business plan, including costs of
operating their factory, supplies they would need, and how
to attract customers. Participants presented their business
plan to actual bank personnel and learned just what it takes
to get a small business started.
During the week, participants were also exposed to artisans,
including Catherine Miller of Catherine Miller Designs.
Students had the opportunity for on-site apprenticeship
training. Directed by Mrs. Miller, the students were able
to develop their own goals for learning and producing actual
glass etchings. Her expertise, enthusiasm, and dedication
to art form made her an ideal mentor for these youth who
might choose employment through artistic expression when
they graduate.
For more information about this project or the WV Center for
Entrepreneurial Enterprise, please contact Jerry Henderson
at 304.472.1611. |
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