Kindergarten To Career (K2C)
Our Mission: We aim to help youth meet the workforce challenges of tomorrow by providing safe spaces, positive mentorship, and work experiences today. We recognize the power of diversity and believe that embracing differences can better serve youth and their communities. Grounded in trauma-informed care, our goal is to encourage self-discovery and promote wellbeing by providing young people the necessary tools and skill sets to maintain a strong quality of life.
The Kindergarten to Career Coaching Program is a transformative initiative targeting youth and young adults- ages 5-24 across the Appalachian Region. This comprehensive program is designed to foster academic success, career readiness, and personal development by addressing the unique challenges these young individuals face. Grounded in trauma-informed care, the program ensures that participants receive both the educational and emotional support necessary to thrive. Central to this initiative is the development of executive functioning skills, which are critical for long-term success in both academic and professional settings. The main objective of this program is to foster academic and emotional growth at every stage of development, bridge the gap between education and career readiness with tailored programs, and provide equitable access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities.
Meet Our Team!
Rachel Smith
Rachel Smith is our Program Director for the Boys & Girls Club, Kindergarten to Career Coaching Program. Rachel is a results-driven Coordinator and Educator bringing seven years of comprehensive experience developing and implementing core programs surrounding youth. With a history of modeling and teaching life skills and promoting growth to primarily at-risk youth, her heart is in youth development and enrichment. Rachel's career has been dedicated to youth; this includes youth of all backgrounds. She believes in creating an inclusive, non-judgmental safe space where youth can be authentic without prejudice. Her main focus is to encourage success by providing youth with the necessary tools and skill sets to develop and maintain a strong quality of life. Rachel's mission here at the Boys and Girls Club is to focus on youths' personal growth, encourage self-discovery and promote well-being, all while building positive relationships. She believes fostering a relationship is key- with youth knowing you truly care; they are more likely to succeed. All in all, Rachel believes that youth are our future. One of the many reasons they should be our biggest investment. Her passion corresponds with this, by promoting youth personal growth, enrichment, and success.