Guest Column: City of Socorro Youth Program

Hi, my name is Aaliyah, and I’m currently going to 10th grade. I’m excited to be part of this program because it gives me the opportunity to gain real work experience and start building important life skills. I plan to use the money I earn to help save for college, buy some school supplies, and maybe treat myself to something small I’ve been wanting.

During my first two weeks interning at Scope Health Council, I’ve had the opportunity to get familiar with the organization and begin contributing to various tasks. I’ve been using tools like Canva to assist with visual content, helping with cleanup and organization efforts, and supporting initiatives aimed at saving money and using resources more efficiently. I’ve also enjoyed working alongside a sweet and kind team, which has made the transition into this role smooth and welcoming. Overall, it’s been a great start full of learning and positive collaboration.

The most challenging task so far has been learning to take on this responsibility, waking up early and debriefing to come to work with a positive attitude. It’s been a learning experience, but it’s helping me grow.

I think other teens should definitely apply to work with this program because it teaches you more than just how to do a job — it teaches responsibility, teamwork, and how to communicate better. It’s a great way to prepare for the future while earning money and building confidence.

My name is Danah, and I decided to join the Socorro youth program because I wanted to learn work experience and I wanted to start to save money so I can get a car. I work at the SCOPE Health Council office and I think that it’s fun to work here. The people I work with are really fun to work with and it’s a fun and awesome experience to work with them. Working at the scope office has taught me valuable skills. I learned how to handle different responsibilities, and I feel more confident in my abilities. This job is helping me prepare for the future, whether it’s gaining professional experience or understanding what I enjoy in a workplace.

I helped with the pool party and NM tech pool and made sure that every kid’s parent signed a waiver so the kids can swim and if anything happens, we have their parents’ information. I made advertisements for an upcoming family game night, I also made short mental health quotes. I have learned how to make stickers on Canva. I have never used Canva before I worked here but they taught me how to use it and now I have got pretty good at using it.