John Muir Seniors Get Real World Experience Through Sustainable Internship Program

Students participating in the Mentoring & Partnership for Youth Development (MPYD), a male mentoring organization located on the campus of John Muir High School, were recognized and awarded cash prizes for their achievements in completing an internship made possible by renowned community organization Leadership Pasadena.

Over a tasty lunch stacked with guest speakers and a room full of supportive mentors, the students came together to briefly discuss their individual experiences with MPYD this year.

MPYD’s mission is to promote personal growth, scholastic achievement, and professional readiness in an effort to guide male youth toward positive life choices. The L.A. county funded program has been present on campus for fourteen years and seeks to collaborate with faculty, parents, volunteers, and community partners in its continuing effort to help students succeed.

“There’s always a room full of adults here who want to help you, because you really are our future,” said MPYD Mentor and Volunteer James Farr to a room full of attentive John Muir seniors.

This academic year, approximately 90 young men, primarily African-American and Latino, in grades 9-12, are participating in the program. According to MPYD, each student is required to learn the five pillars that represent the organization’s Core Values: Accountability, Camaraderie, Diligence, Integrity, and Setting/Achieving Goals. Through community outreach and civic engagement, these students are encouraged to explore career prospects.

“I’ve watched you guys develop, I’ve watched you guys grow and I’ve watched you guys mature,” said Regina Jackson, MPYD Program Office Administrator. “I’m proud to see what kind of men you will become.”

Today’s brief lunch ceremony on campus demonstrated the tight bonds and encouraging support system that MPYD is built upon. Leadership Pasadena (LP), the exclusive leadership program that utilizes community leaders to make the Pasadena area a better place to live and work, has extended its reach to MPYD this year through what is called Project Initiative.

Through this project, students are immersed in sustainable internships through organizations such as the police and fire departments.

Special guest speakers included Pasadena Fire Department Deputy Fire Chief Eugene Campbell, Pasadena Fire Department Public Information Officer Lisa Derderian and LP Alumni and Attorney Alan Romero who presented encouraging words for the dedicated young men.

“Thank you for participating in our program. We are looking to help you get to where you want to go,” said Campbell.

Even though students were given a nice cash award of $50, their spirits were high with a sense of accomplishment and insight from MPYD’s mentorship.

“I saw a lot of great things I never thought I would see. I’m still mind blown that I was able to do that,” expressed senior Ricardo Vega when describing his experience volunteering at Pasadena Fire Department Station 33.

MPYD continues to provide students with volunteer mentors, tutoring and exposure to motivational speakers during daily free lunch discussion groups.

Additionally, MPYD offers academic monitoring, a monthly pancake breakfast, a summer residence camp, job placement assistance, Young Voices advisory period, field trips, student council and Pasadena City College MPYD Alumni program to keep students, past and present, in the loop.

Since its inception in 2002, MPYD has successfully served over 3,500 male students and has a 96% high school graduation rate.

“I know that I am standing in front of future police chiefs, CEO’s and many other professionals. It’s an amazing journey to be a part of it with you guys,” said Jackson.