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Local Voices

Youth Summit in White Plains Draws Hundreds

Several hundred young people ages 16 to 24 from throughout the region turned out for the 2014 Westchester County Youth Workforce Summit.

The free event, in its third year, was held at the Crowne Plaza in White Plains on April 16 and featured an array of distinguished guests, including featured speaker Al Duncan, an award-winning youth advocate, publisher, and an internationally recognized motivational speaker who provided insightful tips on landing the right job and advancing one’s career.

“Your circumstances – good or bad – do not determine your outcome,” Duncan told the crowd. “Your choices do.”

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In addition to Duncan’s inspiring and interactive speech, the Youth Summit included break-out sessions focusing on social media, goal setting and building on an individual’s strengths. The event also connected young eager workers with some of the most experienced business leaders in the Hudson Valley.

Two people -- Joshua Mercado and Matthew Voltaire – were also hired by David Singer, president and CEO of Robison Oil, who participated in an “undercover boss” segment. 

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“The Youth Summit is one of the most important events that the Business Council organizes each year,” said Marsha Gordon, President and CEO of the Business Council of Westchester. “The advice, lessons and job tips go a long way in helping our next generation of workers – and the lessons that are provided will pay dividends throughout their careers.”

The Youth Summit is sponsored by The Business Council and Westchester-Putnam Workforce Investment Board. The Youth Summit is also part of the Westchester Private Sector Summer Jobs program that connects young people with Westchester County businesses.The event was led by Ebony White, the BCW's Workforce Development Coordinator. For information about the Summer Jobs Program or hiring local youths for the summer, call Ebony White at 914-948-2110. 

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