Edward Waters College helping at risk youth

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The summer program at Edward Waters College is an intervention designed specifically for young black males who are potential high school dropouts.

The summer program at Edward Waters College is an intervention designed specifically for young black males who are potential high school dropouts. These teens take classes AND get paid to work a part time job -- all while getting to meet new friends and of course have some summer camp fun.

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From 7th grade up to graduating seniors -- the boys are all here for the same reason -- to become better people -- while having fun and making some money!

"This program has helped make me a better person when I first got in I was making not too decent grades this program helped me and lifted me up now I have straight A's a 3.5 GPA and I will be attending Stanton in the fall," said Joshua Williams. This is his 3rd year at the Edward Waters College Black Male College Explorers Program. The 14-year-old can't wait to have his first paying job and take classes in the STEM program -- science, technology, engineering and math.

"We learn a lot. Last year we made rockets we made parachutes and learned aerodynamics and in the afternoons we have free time to play sports play video games and have one on one time with the mentors and learn new things," said Williams.

The nearly 50 kids moved into their dorms Monday and will be here for five weeks.

They'll wake up at 6:30 for breakfast and will be in class from 8-12. In between lunch and dinner they get to participate in fun activities and field trips as well as work part time and get counseling from a mentor. 16-year-old Jaquon Baker is the president of the program. "I'm ecstatic to have the opportunity to do this and I'm happy that at age 16 I had a lot of exposure and I think it's better when you start young so the older you get the more mature and ready you are for these types of jobs," said Baker.

It's a program that Jah'Rielle says is the reason he will be a college student at Edward WatersCollege starting this fall. "Starting back when I was in 6th grade, I really didn't know who I was. It has helped me find who I really am and helped me grow and be a part of a team atmosphere."

The program is of no cost for the teens. Food, books, classroom supplies and materials are all provided by the college.

For more information on the program: http://www.ewc.edu/index.php/black-male-college-explorers-program