What We Do

Project C.O.O.L (Communities Opening Opportunities for Learning) is a nonprofit organization that places youth in the greater Grand Rapids area in summer work experience positions with local employers. We bring together area youth and local businesses for career exploration. The program was structured so that the process from application to job completion was fostering job readiness and socialization skills as part of the overall educational process.

We are committed to continuing the legacy created by Mrs. Farris; training underrepresented youth in the areas of life skills while preparing them for the competition and rigors of higher education and workplace assimilation.

The workshops for the 2012 program will focus on: Financial Literacy, Personal Development, Leadership and Diversity, Resume Writing, College Preparation and Financial Aide.  At the end of the work experience, the students will tour a Michigan college or university, allowing the students to envision themselves as college material.

Any teen wishing to apply for summer employment must complete a 250 word essay. All applicants must have a minimum accumulative G.P.A. of 2.0, a letter of recommendation and complete the interview process.