Transition Program Students Build Skills and Give Back Through Community Partnerships
Judley Toussaint was one of the last Transition Program students to step into the pantry basement at St. Boniface Martyr Church and unloaded the final boxes from the Island Harvest delivery truck. After checking in with Transition Specialist Michelle Armano to see if anything else was needed, he helped stack non-perishable items on the highest shelves – using his height to his advantage.
“Judley is a wonderful helper,” said Michele Ermmarino, Transition Specialist. “He is happy to lend a hand and is doing a great job making sure the items are well stocked and presentable.”
Stories like Judley’s reflect the meaningful experiences of students in the Transition Program at the Children’s Education Center. Each week, students volunteer two days a week at The Outreach Pantry and Thrift Shop at St. Boniface Martyr Church in Sea Cliff, rotating between community locations to learn workplace routines and build valuable skills.
The partnership developed through what Brian Levine, Transition Administrative Specialist, calls “shared values networking,” where he surveys teachers and staff to identify potential community partners.
The connection with Saint Boniface developed from this connection and has turned into a great opportunity for students to give back while gaining meaningful workforce skills.
When students arrive at the pantry in the morning, they mingle with other volunteers and help with everything from unloading delivery trucks to finding the appropriate place to store donated items—food, toiletries, socks and undergarments.
As the students stocked the fridge and cupboards, they worked side by side with community volunteers, using the same skills to support their community.
“Whether it’s for work, shopping, or leisure, it’s important for students to understand what it’s like to be in the community,” said Brian.
For businesses or organizations interested in becoming a community partner, where students can gain mentorship and build meaningful workforce skills, please reach out to Brian Levine at blevine@brookvillecenter.org.