This summer Pelham Together hosted 44 teen interns - what a feat!  While the training and much of the actual work had to be done virtually, the mentors provided real, meaningful experiences for our youth.  We could not have done it without the partnerships with local businesses, organizations and individuals who were equally committed to supporting our young people.  Please click here to see a list of these incredible mentors.

The internship spanned three weeks, beginning with leadership training for the entire group.  Our training facilitator, Daniel Horgan, reinvented his entire training to be virtual.  The training was meant to build community, inspire a sense of curiosity and build confidence.  State Senator Alessandra Biaggi visited the group to participate in a Town Hall to discuss questions from the teens and express how deeply she believes in the power of young people to make change.  She encouraged them to push through any skepticism because “this is a revolutionary time being led by young people.”  

Below are snapshots of some of the intern assignments, described in their own words:

Elliot Brandler
Mentor:  Village of Pelham
I was fortunate that Pelham Together placed me as an Intern with the Village of Pelham Mayor's office. At the Mayor’s office I met the department heads of various public works departments - including the fire, building and police departments, along with the Mayor.  For the first part of my internship I worked at the police station filing paperwork and records, and got to see what it was like working with the police. In addition, I worked at Village Hall spreading awareness for the upcoming US census by researching prime intersections to put up signs and hang flyers. The Pelham Together internship helped me explore various career paths in Civics and I gained valuable experience in advertising and working in government. 

Sophia Leung
Mentor:  Pelham Democrats
Interning with Pelham Democrats I had the unique opportunity to directly collaborate with local officials and representatives to address issues in and around Pelham! My mentors helped me to understand public responsibility in politics and how voters and citizens can go about effectively advocating for change. As an intern, I was able to provide my perspective as a student while discussing how to further engage young people in politics and the community as a whole. Over my four weeks, I launched a social media platform for Pelham Democrats, compiled information and resources on local issues, and contributed to plans to engage students with the organization. If it weren’t for Pelham Together, I would never have been exposed to this kind of work environment or been able to connect with elected officials and political figures in my area. I’m so grateful to have had the chance to collaborate with people who are actively involved in local politics because it gave me insight into how our governmental system works and how I as a citizen can make an impact!

Akaylah Ng Saye
Mentor: Sports Marketing Team - Virtual team led by three executives from the marketing and business
My first impression of the Pelham Together community was socially innovative. It truly embodied the close association and encouragement a community thrives off of. Being placed in the Sports Marketing campaign, directed by various inspiring and generous leaders, I now comprehend how to produce an effective pitch. Additionally, through the collaboration with others (interns) of similar interests, I have gained confidence in my passion. The goal-driven advice I have received guided me throughout this journey and will prove itself worthy for many other prosperous experiences.