PowerPoint Presentation
Project-Based Learning & Government/Smart Communities
Melinda ToddCity of Durham
What is the Durham Youth Work Internship Program?
What are the types of projects young people are working on as
part of their internships?
Durhams program matches student interest to internship
opportunities
STEM is a special focus of the program, due to the changing
economy
Placements vary from healthcare and IT to architecture and
engineering
What are some of the skills or takeaways you want to impart to
youth as part of their overall experience?
Provides career exploration opportunities
Builds employability skills
Enhances soft skills development
Builds a youths professional network
How is the program structured between the City, County, Public
Schools and Workforce Development Board?
Based on a collaborative model between local govt., workforce
board and schools
Governed by a steering committee comprised of representatives
from partner agencies
Directed by a strategic plan aimed at providing opportunities
for disadvantaged youth
What would you say are three important lessons for navigating
the relationship between the City of Durham and its community
partners, like the Public School System?
Partners must be engaged in meaningful worknot just
oversight
Partners must contribute based on their core competencies
Coordination must be goal-directed
Ongoing measurement and reflection is key to success
What are some recommendations you have for local governments
interested in starting a program like this one?
Relying on a cross section of community agencies can enhance
sustainability
Create a stakeholder team that is reflective of the entire
community
Visit http://durhamnc.gov/598/YouthWork-Internship-Program for
more information.
The Wrap-Up
Use the links below to access our online discussion on
Project-Based Learning in the government sector. We appreciate your
insights and questions, as they will help us with our push to
enhance PBL across the state of North Carolina.
Visit emergingissues.org/FutureWork for more information!
