Durham Teens Can Design And Create Their Very Own Sneakers

Hands-on learning and career exploration in the footwear industry.

The Partnership and Its Goals

The partnership between DPR and Dirty Soles aims to provide teens with hands-on learning experiences and career exploration opportunities in the footwear industry. The program is designed to give teens a deeper understanding of the industry’s various sectors, including manufacturing, design, and retail. Key aspects of the program include:

Visits to local footwear manufacturers and retailers
Workshops and training sessions on footwear design and manufacturing
Guest lectures from industry professionals
Internship opportunities with participating companies

The Benefits of the Program

The MyDurham Teen Program has reported positive outcomes from the partnership, including:

Increased awareness and interest in the footwear industry among participating teens

Improved knowledge and skills in footwear design and manufacturing

Enhanced career exploration and planning

Development of soft skills, such as communication and teamwork

The Impact on the Community

The partnership between DPR and Dirty Soles has had a positive impact on the community, particularly among local teens.

The Art of Shoe Making: A Leadership Development Program

The Art of Shoe Making course is a unique leadership development program that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to foster personal growth and professional development. This four-part course is designed to be completed over a four-week period, providing participants with a comprehensive learning experience.

Course Structure and Objectives

The course is structured into four modules, each covering a different aspect of shoe making.

Revitalizing Teen Programming with a New Era of Partnership and Expertise.

This partnership will enable us to leverage the expertise of the YMCA of Greater Durham to enhance our teen programs and services.

The Partnership: A New Era for Teen Programming

The Durham Public Schools (DPS) and the YMCA of Greater Durham have announced a historic partnership to revitalize the Teen Programming Plan. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the revitalization of the Teen Programming Plan, which aims to provide comprehensive and inclusive teen programs and services.

Key Benefits of the Partnership

Enhanced expertise: The YMCA of Greater Durham brings its expertise in youth development and programming to the partnership, enabling DPS to enhance its teen programs and services. Increased accessibility: The partnership will increase accessibility to teen programs and services, particularly for students from low-income backgrounds. Improved outcomes: The collaboration is expected to lead to improved outcomes for students, including increased academic achievement and social-emotional learning. ### A New Era for Teen Programming*

A New Era for Teen Programming

The partnership is the first step in DPR’s revitalization of the Teen Programming Plan.

Types of Youth Programs

Youth programs come in many forms, catering to diverse interests and needs. Some examples include:

Summer camps, which provide a fun and engaging environment for kids to learn new skills and make friends. After-school programs, which offer a safe space for children to relax and engage in activities after school hours. Sports leagues, which promote physical activity and teamwork. Art and craft programs, which encourage creativity and self-expression. Mentorship programs, which pair youth with positive role models and provide guidance and support. ### Benefits of Youth Programs*

Benefits of Youth Programs

Youth programs offer numerous benefits for young people. Some of these benefits include:

Improved physical and mental health

Enhanced social skills and relationships

Increased confidence and self-esteem

Better academic performance

Exposure to new experiences and interests

How Youth Programs Can Make a Difference

Youth programs can have a profound impact on the lives of young people.

The new slate of programs will include a new teen center, a new teen sports program, and a new teen arts program. The new teen center will be located in the former Durham Central Park building, and will offer a variety of activities and services for teens, including a game room, a lounge area, and a variety of recreational activities. The new teen sports program will focus on promoting healthy lifestyles and sportsmanship, and will offer a range of sports and activities for teens, including basketball, soccer, and volleyball.