CREATIVEWORKS VIRTUAL PROGRAMMING

CreativeWorks is a vocational training program, in Mount Rainier, MD, in theater production and digital media that prepares youth and young adults to secure employment and prepare for higher education.

I'm Interested

CreativeWorks is a paid workforce-development program for Prince Georgians ages 17-24. There is a daytime program for youth who are out of high school and one two evenings a week for high school seniors. Participants do not have to be a high school graduate to participate.

CreativeWorkers learn skills in theater tech (lighting, sound, stage management), digital media, music production, photography, videography, storytelling and more. In addition, participants learn to research colleges, trade schools and scholarships and fill out financial aid forms. CWers also write resumes and cover letters and learn to research and apply for jobs.

The program is 14 weeks long for the daytime program, which is four days a week, five hours a day, and 22 weeks (two evenings a week for three hours each) for high school seniors.

Participants also get to explore the arts, e.g., seeing theatrical productions for free here at Joe's and through the generosity of our partners at their theaters and other venues.

The program was created in 2008 in response to the high teen unemployment rate in Prince George’s County.

Who We Serve

CreativeWorks serves high school seniors and recently out-of-school young adults ages 17-24 who are Prince George’s County residents. Almost all will be first-generation college students. Past participants are African-American 74%, Hispanic 16% and white/other 10%. Recruitment for the program is facilitated by relationships with area high schools, the Department of Social Services, M-NCPPC and other nonprofit partners.

Outcomes

CHANGED ATTITUDE: With support form Joe’s staff, participants came to believe they are capable and deserving of a future that involves a good job and/or higher education.

CHANGED ASPIRATIONS: Participants realize they are capable of success as they are introduced to colleges, employers and other partner organizations.

NEW SKILLS: With professional instructors and equipment, participants learn marketable skills they can put to use immediately for internships and employment.

NEW OPPORTUNITIES: Participants have increased job opportunities and support to apply to college and/or other training programs.