By Stace Keane
PEORIA, Ill. – The City of Peoria’s annual summer enrichment initiative for Peoria Public Schools students, the Mayor’s Youth Program, will kick off at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 29, at the Peoria Public Downtown Library Auditorium, 107 N.E. Monroe St.
The Mayor’s Youth Program is an 8-week paid summer internship for Peoria Public School students ages 16 to 18. It’s designed to strengthen the community through civic engagement, leadership development, teamwork, and youth-led public service while fostering safe and inclusive work environments.
Coordinated in partnership with the Department of Public Works, students will assist with beautification efforts throughout the City, including planting flowers, mulching landscape areas, and removing litter from public spaces.
In addition to the hands-on work experience, students will participate in weekly educational and career exploration opportunities on Fridays. Activities include visits to area colleges and trade schools, tours of healthcare and manufacturing facilities, and presentations from guest speakers representing a variety of professions and industries.
City of Peoria Mayor Rita Ali and representatives from Peoria Public Schools District 150 will provide remarks at the kickoff event, highlighting the importance of investing in local youth and the program’s positive impact on students and the community.
