VALDOSTA — The City of Valdosta’s 2024-2026 Great Promise Partnership Program welcomed six students from Valdosta High School on Monday.

Valdosta was one of the first municipalities in Georgia to participate in this statewide initiative, which provides local young people with up to two years of employment, job training, life skills, mentoring, and income as incentives to finish high school through the GPP program, the city said in a press release.

Neighborhood Development & Community Protection Manager Anetra Riley and Program Coordinator Charizma Harp warmly inducted the new students to the GPP Program with exceptional career training experience on orientation day.

“We are thrilled to have these talented young individuals join our team,” Riley said. “The Great Promise Partnership Program not only equips students with essential job skills but also helps them build a foundation for their future careers. We are committed to supporting their growth and success.”

In 2017, Valdosta was recognized at the Georgia Municipal Association convention, receiving the Great Promise Partnership Trailblazer Award for being a leader in Georgia in implementing the GPP program, the city said.

The Valdosta GPP students will work full-time in various city departments throughout July and part-time during the fall and spring, accommodating their school schedules. This hands-on experience not only provides valuable job training but also allows students to earn a paycheck.

The internships are funded by the City of Valdosta’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, an economic development initiative designed to provide employment opportunities and training for low- to moderate-income individuals.

By partnering with different departments within the City of Valdosta, the following students will gain invaluable experience and prepare themselves for their future careers:

• Myriah Bennett – Customer Service.
• Elysse Collins – Customer Service.
• Jayla Durham – Downtown Valdosta Main Street.
• Kamryn Swanger – Meter Reading.
• Akiyra Houston – Meter Reading.
• Edward Bell – Utilities.

The City of Valdosta looks forward to seeing the positive impact these students will make in their respective departments and the community, the press release said.