Rochester, Minnesota, is a growing community in need of skilled workers. RISE for Youth is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between Mayo Clinic and the Rochester branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) designed to help Black and underrepresented students transform themselves from youth with potential into competitive and empowered talent entering the workforce.

RISE for Youth aims to create new pathways for success by providing students with critical educational and leadership skills, training, and long-term mentoring for successful careers in healthcare, science, and beyond.

Why is RISE for Youth needed? 

According to the State of Minnesota Employment and Economic Development report, there is a huge employment gap between white college graduates and minorities such as Black/African Americans, Hispanic, and American Indians. This lack of equity, diversity, and inclusion in education and employment harms us all – depriving organizations and communities of the unrealized potential of future leaders and changemakers.

RISE for Youth seeks to bridge that gap, empowering generations of competitive talent whose diversity of ideas and perspectives will make our businesses, communities, and futures more successful.

RISE for Youth is a four-week summer program that engages high school juniors, seniors, and college undergraduates in a program designed to enhance opportunities for post-secondary education and entry into the workforce. Participants will examine careers and will be partnered with mentors from Mayo Clinic and the surrounding community. Through discussions and exploration of leadership and professional development topics, students will gain insightful knowledge, hands-on experience, and professional skills.