On Wednesday, September 25, 2024, Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation (KCDC), celebrated seven young residents at the graduation ceremony at First Creek at Austin, 1250 Elston Turner Drive.
Graduates Lyrica Hicks, Jaya Ayanna, Nashea Motley, Stormy Gamble, Cleosha Smith, Lebrisha Jordan and Karlee Turner successfully completed its five-week Pathways Program which is designed to break down barriers to employment and continuing education.
The program, open to KCDC and Section 8 housing residents ages 16-24, offered five sessions, covering ways to pursue career and educational advancement. Topics included college and financial opportunities, trade school and workforce development, service to the community or the military, and professional skills such as creating a résumé or interview tips.
Funds for the program came from a Youth Empowerment Grant from the city of Knoxville’s Office of Community Safety. The sessions were also held for residents at Western Heights, Lonsdale, Mechanicsville and Five Points.