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2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGE 1 Celebrating the Class of 2026! Summer of Purpose, A Circle of Thanks . EVERY STEP FORWARD WAS WORTH THE JOURNEY On the Course to Success Driving dreams. Navigating challenges. Finishing strong. Just as every great round begins with a single swing, every successful career begins with a willingness to learn. Throughout the summer, the Class of 2026 embraced new experiences, developed professional skills, served their community, and proved that the future of Petersburg is bright. The 2026 Summer Youth Internship Program was more than an opportunity to earn a paycheck. It was a season of growth, discovery, service, and preparation. Over the course of the summer, high school and college interns reported to departments throughout the City of Petersburg, worked alongside experienced professionals, and gained firsthand knowledge of public service and the responsibilities that keep a city moving forward.Meet the Interns The Young People Behind the Work, Growth, and Impact IN THIS ISSUE On the course to Success With Special Thanks This summer, our interns brought energy, creativity, curiosity, and dedication to departments across the City of Petersburg. Just as every great round begins with a single swing, every successful career begins with a willingness to learn. Because of Those Who Answered the Call, Purpose Became Opportunity and Opportunity Became Impact.Recognizing Potential, Inspiring Purpose Every successful business begins with an idea. Every lasting legacy begins with the courage to pursue it. From entrepreneurship to youth- centered leadership, these experiences showed our interns how vision, preparation, service, and determination can transform ideas into lasting impact.CONTENT DEVELOPED BY SYIP INTERNS | DESIGNED BY MR. DREW
On Friday, July 31, 2026, the high school portion of the City of Petersburg Summer Youth Internship Program officially concluded with a closeout ceremony hosted at Dogwood Trace Golf Course. We extend our sincere appreciation to Tia Fairley and Jamie Fagan for their unwavering support of the program and for once again welcoming our interns, families, staff, and guests to Dogwood Trace. Their hospitality, partnership, and continued commitment helped make the closeout ceremony a meaningful and memorable conclusion to the summer. For many interns, this was their first experience in a professional workplace. Over the summer, they learned the importance of showing up on time, communicating clearly, accepting direction, completing assignments, working with others, and carrying themselves with confidence. 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGEEVERY STEP FORWARD WAS WORTH THE JOURNEY 2 Interns also gained a better understanding of how local government serves the community. Through their department assignments, professional development sessions, service projects, site visits, presentations, and conversations with City leaders, they explored new interests and began thinking more seriously about their futures. The closeout ceremony celebrated their growth, achievements, and contributions. We thank Mayor Sam Parham for opening the program and Councilwoman Annette Smith-Lee for providing closing remarks. We also appreciate Chief Kenneth Miller, Marquis Allen, Commissioner of the Revenue Brittany Flowers, City Treasurer Paul Mullins, and other City leaders who attended and supported our interns. We are grateful to every supervisor, mentor, department, community partner, and supporter who invested in Petersburg’s youth.
In a season shaped by purpose, guided by care, We pause in reflection for those who were there. Not only in presence, but in action and grace, You carried this program and strengthened its pace. To Mr. Muhammad and Mr. Mike, steady and true, With every mile traveled, our trust grew in you. Through early mornings and long afternoons, You delivered our interns beneath shifting skies and suns and moons. Safe passage given, without fail or delay, You helped shape each moment, each meaningful day. To Mr. Marquis Allen, whose leadership stood strong, Who met every challenge and carried us along. With wisdom and partnership, solutions in hand, You helped guide the vision and strengthen the plan. To CJ Claiborne, Taryn White, Miriam Muhammad, and Cierra Jackson, Your patience and strength were the program in action. Through every question, each moment of need, You led with intention, you followed with deed. Your support never wavered, your commitment stayed clear, And because of your presence, we made it right here. To Mayor Parham and Councilwoman Annette Smith Lee, Your presence reminded us what leadership should be. With unwavering support and belief in our youth, You stood for the future with courage and truth. To Tangi Hill, Clerk of Council, steadfast and kind, your work behind scenes never goes undefined. With grace and precision in all that you do, Please know this program is grateful for you. And to our leader, our guide through it all, Mr. Drew, who answered the call, With vision and heart, with purpose so clear, You poured into youth and brought them near. You believed in their greatness, you gave your best, And because of your efforts, they now stand blessed. Finally, to Deputy City Manager, Chief Kenneth Miller, and Mr. Delvont’e Frenzley, whose leadership stands taller! Through direction and trust, through vision and will, You made what was imagined become something real. You opened the door, you allowed us to see what happens when purpose meets opportunity. This summer was more than a program in name, it was growth, it was impact, it was purpose, it was change. And because of each of you who answered the call, This vision did not just begin...it stood tall. With gratitude deep and appreciation true, This summer’s success belongs to all of you. The City of Petersburg Summer Youth Internship Program Class of 2026 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGEWITH SPECIAL THANKS 3 With Special Thanks A Summer of Purpose, A Circle of Thanks
Recognizing the interns who transformed Change in Action into meaningful impact through their leadership, professionalism, service, growth, and commitment. 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGE2026 SYIP AWARDS 4 Celebrating Excellence. Honoring Achievement. Inspiring Tomorrow. 2026 Summer Youth Internship Program Awards C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S T O O U R A W A R D R E C E I P E N T SC O N G R A T U L A T I O N S T O O U R A W A R D R E C E I P E N T S Excellence in Leadership This award recognizes interns who demonstrated outstanding leadership by motivating others, taking initiative, leading by example, and making a positive influence. Devon Mays, Donniya Mason, Jaden Coleman, Lacy Ward IV, Layla Wesson, Mylin Whaley-Adih, Nailah Pegram, Nattalia Noggin, Saniyah Wright, Shantel Clanton, Taliyah Hepburn, Tamia Gilliam, Tytiana Looby. Excellence in Public Service Recognizes interns who exemplified public service through commitment to serving Petersburg and supporting their departments. Arieyah Loving, Bria Noakes, Raekwon Bullock, Tamia Gilliam, Lamontae Turner, Seth Franzyshen. Innovation & Initiative Recognizes creativity, critical thinking, initiative, and innovative problem-solving. Aaryn Bridgeforth, Jayda Staton, Jonathan Pulley, Keron Hall, Lailah Graves, Layla Wesson, Ryleigh Chisholm, Seth Franzyshen, Shawntez Clanton. Future Leader of Petersburg Recognizes exceptional leadership potential, civic responsibility, character, and commitment to Petersburg's future. Analise Parham, Devon Mays, Dulce Castro Ramirez, Jonathan Pulley, Saniyah Wright, Shaela Motten. Outstanding Team Player Recognizes exceptional collaboration, teamwork, and positive contributions. Dulce Castro Ramirez, Emoni Turner, Jayda Staton, Kemonie Peebles, Kennedy Bullock, Lailah Graves, Layla Wesson, Lazariyah Avery, Nailah Pegram, Roynal Pegram III, Shawntez Clanton, Tamia Gilliam, Tramir Howard. Outstanding Professionalism Recognizes exemplary professionalism, integrity, accountability, and respect. Bria Noakes, Jaden Coleman, Lacy Ward IV, Lailah Graves, Mylin Whaley-Adih, Naomi Jackson, Roynal Pegram III, Seth Franzyshen, Shaela Motten, Taeona Morton, Tamia Gilliam. Congratulations to each recipient. Your dedication, growth, leadership, and commitment to excellence helped make the 2026 Summer Youth Internship Program a tremendous success. We celebrate your accomplishments and wish you continued success in all that you pursue.
2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGE2026 SYIP AWARDS 5 Most Improved Intern Recognizes significant personal and professional growth throughout the summer. Dulce Castro Ramirez, Kennedy Bullock, Lazariyah Avery, Roynal Pegram III. Celebrating Excellence. Honoring Achievement. Inspiring Tomorrow. 2026 Summer Youth Internship Program Awards Legacy Award The program's highest character recognition for lasting leadership, professionalism, work ethic, and service. Analise Parham, Donniya Mason, Lacy Ward IV, Nattalia Noggin, Seth Franzyshen, Taliyah Hepburn, Tytiana Looby. Outstanding Intern of the Year Recognizes exceptional overall performance, professionalism, leadership, initiative, and impact. Analise Parham, Bria Noakes, Devon Mays, Donniya Mason, Jaden Coleman, Jayda Staton, Lacy Ward IV, Mylin Whaley-Adih, Nailah Pegram, Nattalia Noggin, Ryleigh Chisholm, Saniyah Wright, Seth Franzyshen, Shaela Motten, Taliyah Hepburn, Tytiana Looby, Lamontae Turner, Ta’ziya Gregory.
2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGEMEET THE 2026 SYIP INTERNS 6 Meet the 2026 SYIP Interns The Young People Behind the Work, Growth, and Impact For many of our interns, this summer marked their first experience working in a professional environment. They entered the program with different interests, goals, and levels of experience, but they shared a common opportunity: the chance to learn how a workplace operates and discover what they were capable of contributing. Across City departments and partner organizations, interns answered phones, assisted residents, supported special projects, attended meetings, organized materials, participated in community activities, and learned from the employees who worked alongside them. Some quickly adjusted to the expectations of the workplace, while others needed time, encouragement, and guidance to build confidence and become comfortable in their roles. Throughout the summer, they learned that an internship is about more than earning a paycheck. It is also about being dependable, communicating professionally, accepting feedback, solving problems, working with others, and taking responsibility for the quality of their work. Each intern’s experience was different. Some discovered new career interests. Some strengthened skills they already had. Others overcame challenges, became more confident, or learned important lessons they will carry into school, future employment, and adulthood. This summer, our interns brought energy, creativity, curiosity, and dedication to departments across the City of Petersburg.
2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGEMEET THE 2026 SYIP INTERNS 7 The interns featured represent the many personalities, talents, and stories that shaped the 2026 Summer Youth Internship Program. Together, they made this summer one of learning, service, growth, and impact.
2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGEADVICE, ENCOURAGEMENT, AND LESSONS FROM THE CLASS OF 2026 8 ADVICE, ENCOURAGEMENT, AND LESSONS FROM THE CLASS OF 2026 Letters to Future Interns Written from experience. Shared with purpose. Passed forward to the next generation. As the 2026 Summer Youth Internship Program came to a close, interns were invited to look beyond their own summer experience and consider the young people who will participate in the program in the future. Each intern was asked to write a letter offering honest advice, encouragement, and lessons learned to the next class. The assignment gave interns an opportunity to reflect on how they had grown, the challenges they faced, and the habits that helped them succeed. Their letters showed that the internship was about much more than completing assignments or earning a paycheck. It was also about learning how to communicate, accept responsibility, respond to feedback, build confidence, and make the most of new opportunities. Through their letters, the Class of 2026 shared practical advice, honest reflections, and encouragement for the interns who will follow them. Their messages offer four important reminders for making the most of the Summer Youth Internship Program and turning each opportunity into meaningful growth.SHOW UP READY TO LEARN Begin with the right attitude and remain open to growth. Future interns are encouraged to begin each day with a positive attitude, an open mind, and a willingness to participate. Every assignment may not feel exciting at first, but each task can teach something valuable about responsibility, teamwork, communication, or the workplace. Asking questions is not a sign of weakness; it shows curiosity and a desire to improve. Mistakes may happen, but they should be viewed as opportunities to learn, make adjustments, and grow with confidence.TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE OPPORTUNITY Your effort, preparation, and consistency shape the experience. An internship becomes meaningful when interns take ownership of the experience. Being dependable, arriving prepared, completing assignments, following directions, and communicating respectfully all help build strong workplace habits. Interns are encouraged to remain focused and consistent, even when a task feels difficult or unfamiliar. The effort shown each day can shape how supervisors view their potential and may lead to future recommendations, professional connections, or new opportunities.STAY CURIOUS AND ACCEPT CHALLENGES Every new task can reveal a skill, interest, or possibility. Every person, assignment, meeting, and workplace experience can provide a lesson. Future interns are encouraged to listen carefully, accept feedback, take initiative, and step outside of their comfort zones. New challenges may feel uncomfortable at first, but they often create the greatest opportunities for growth. By remaining curious and willing to try, interns can discover new interests, strengthen their skills, and learn more about the careers and possibilities available to them.CARRY THE EXPERIENCE FORWARD Use what you gained this summer to strengthen your future. The value of the internship does not end when the summer concludes. The confidence, knowledge, workplace habits, and professional relationships developed during the program can continue to support interns in school, future employment, and adulthood. Each experience becomes part of their personal and professional story. The Class of 2026 leaves future interns with encouragement, guidance, and a reminder that opportunity becomes impact when it is met with effort, responsibility, curiosity, and a willingness to grow.
2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG FROM ASSIGNMENT TO IMPACT SYIP Interns Designs a Youth Center Built Around Opportunity, Belonging, and Petersburg’s Future Young people were not simply asked what they needed. They were challenged to research it, design it, plan it, and build the vision.2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGEFROM ASSIGNMENT TO IMPACT 9 What began as a summer assignment became one of the Mr. Drew Group’s most ambitious projects: developing the vision, facility design, programs, organizational structure, and operating framework for a proposed youth- development center in Petersburg. The Mr. Drew Youth Center Project challenged interns to think beyond the idea of a traditional recreation facility. They were asked to imagine a safe, welcoming, accessible, and youth- informed center that could serve as a year-round system of opportunity for young people and their families. This summer, interns examined an important question: What would a youth center need to offer in order to make a meaningful and lasting difference in Petersburg? Their response extended far beyond sports and entertainment. The developing concept included academic support, career exploration, workforce readiness, technology, recreation, leadership development, mentoring, life-skills education, wellness resources, community service, family support, and opportunities for young people to express their ideas and participate in decisions that affect them. The project required interns to move from imagination to practical planning. They researched community needs, explored programming ideas, considered safety and accessibility, identified potential partners, and developed drawings showing how the facility could be organized. Their work included floor plans, room concepts, program spaces, recreational areas, administrative offices, meeting rooms, a full catering kitchen, flexible event and multipurpose space, and other features designed to support both daily youth programming and larger community activities. The proposed 40,000-square-foot center was ultimately framed as more than a building. It was envisioned as a place where young people could feel safe, supported, challenged, connected, and prepared for the future—a system designed to help them work, learn, serve, and grow. The Mr. Drew Youth Center Project allowed interns to see what can happen when young people are trusted with meaningful work. They were not simply asked to complete an assignment. They were asked to identify a need, develop solutions, create a plan, and consider how their ideas could improve the lives of other young people in Petersburg. Their work demonstrated that youth should not only be invited into existing spaces. They should also be given opportunities to help imagine, design, and shape the spaces of the future.
The group was welcomed and hosted by Tarsha Adkins, Chief People Officer and Co-Owner of Recognizing Children’s Gifts Behavioral Health Network. Ms. Adkins is also a proud product of Petersburg and a graduate of Petersburg High School, making her story especially meaningful to the interns. Her journey provided a powerful example of what is possible when talent, education, perseverance, leadership, and a commitment to service come together. As someone with strong ties to Petersburg, Ms. Adkins showed the interns that young people from their own community can grow into accomplished professionals, business owners, organizational leaders, and advocates for children and families. 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGE 10 . During the final weeks of the Summer Youth Internship Program, interns had the opportunity to move beyond planning and experience youth-centered service in action. Their visit to Recognizing Children’s Gifts Behavioral Health Network in Chesterfield offered a firsthand look at how an established organization transforms its mission into meaningful support for children, families, and the community.2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG A Conversation About Petersburg’s Youth Leads to a Meaningful Site Visit What began as a conversation about the future of Petersburg’s young people became a valuable opportunity for learning, planning, and inspiration.RECOGNIZING POTENTIAL, INSPIRING PURPOSE During the visit, Ms. Adkins shared insight into the organization’s mission, operations, leadership structure, workplace culture, and commitment to providing high-quality behavioral health services. The interns had researched the organization in advance and arrived prepared to observe, ask questions, and gather ideas that could strengthen their own youth center project. The interns learned that the organization supports children with autism and other developmental needs through services that may include Applied Behavior Analysis therapy, speech and occupational therapy, social-skills development, school-readiness programming, family support, and both center-based and in-home services. They also explored the wide range of professionals required to operate a successful behavioral health organization, including behavior analysts, registered behavior technicians, therapists, educators, social workers, psychologists, administrative staff, and organizational leaders. More than a traditional field trip, this experience allowed the interns to move from conversation and building plans to real-world observation. The Summer Youth Internship Program extends its sincere appreciation to Tarsha Adkins and the team at Recognizing Children’s Gifts Behavioral Health Network for opening their doors, sharing their expertise, and providing our interns with a meaningful example of leadership, entrepreneurship, behavioral health service, and youth-centered care in action.
Entrepreneurship is more than owning a business. It is about having the courage to believe in an idea, the discipline to stay committed, and the willingness to use experience as a foundation for something greater. This summer, interns in the Summer Youth Internship Program had the opportunity to learn directly from Mr. Kelvin Bratcher, owner of AML Ford of Prince George and an accomplished automotive professional with more than 20 years of industry experience. Mr. Bratcher’s connection to the program began through a conversation with Mr. Drew. After learning more about the Summer Youth Internship Program and its commitment to exposing young people to meaningful career and leadership opportunities, he expressed a sincere interest in meeting the interns and sharing his journey with them. That conversation created an opportunity for the interns to hear from someone who has spent decades building knowledge, experience, and credibility within the automotive industry. Mr. Bratcher spoke openly about his professional path, the lessons he learned along the way, and the determination required to move from industry experience into business ownership. 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGE 11 .2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG An Entrepreneur's Journey Inspires the Next Generation Every successful business begins with an idea. Every lasting legacy begins with the courage to pursue it.FROM VISION TO VENTURE His story was also grounded in education. Mr. Bratcher earned both his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. His academic background, combined with more than two decades of automotive experience, helped prepare him for the leadership, responsibility, and decision making required to own and operate AML Ford of Prince George. Throughout the session, he reminded interns that success is rarely immediate. It is built through consistency, preparation, sacrifice, and the willingness to keep moving forward when challenges arise. The discussion gave interns a more complete understanding of entrepreneurship. They learned that owning a business requires more than having a good idea. It also requires leadership, financial responsibility, customer service, relationship building, sound judgment, and a commitment to serving the community. Mr. Bratcher encouraged the interns to think beyond simply finding a job. He challenged them to consider how their skills, interests, and experiences could one day be used to create opportunities for themselves and others. His journey showed them that entrepreneurship can grow from years of preparation, professional experience, and a clear understanding of an industry. It also demonstrated the value of education, mentorship, and remaining open to opportunities that may lead to a new chapter. The session was especially meaningful because it connected the interns with a business owner who was willing to speak honestly about both achievement and responsibility. Mr. Bratcher did not simply talk about success. He shared the work, patience, and resilience required to build it. The Summer Youth Internship Program extends its sincere appreciation to Mr. Kelvin Bratcher for answering the invitation, investing his time, and speaking directly to the Class of 2026. His willingness to share more than 20 years of experience, his educational journey, and his transition into ownership gave the interns a real example of what can happen when vision is supported by preparation and purpose.
“I learned how well I work in groups and gained collaboration skills. This experience has heightened my confidence.” The Class of 2026 was equally thoughtful about the future of the program. Interns recommended more hands-on experiences, additional department visits, guest speakers, career workshops, earlier schedules, clearer communication, and more opportunities to lead projects and presentations. Their final reflections captured the lasting impact of the summer: Together, these voices tell a story of confidence discovered, skills developed, and futures reimagined. The interns did more than complete assignments. They learned to communicate, collaborate, contribute, and see themselves as future professionals and leaders. The voices of the Class of 2026 are clear: the future of Petersburg is already here, and it is ready to lead. “The story I want people to remember about my summer is that I gained confidence, valuable work experience, and skills that will help me in the future.” 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGE 12 .2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG The Class of 2026 Tells Its Story Every voice has a story. Every story has the power to shape the future.VOICES OF THE FUTURE The success of the 2026 Summer Youth Internship Program is best measured through the voices of the interns themselves. Throughout the summer, participants shared their experiences through Monday Engagement Check- Ins, personal reflections, and end-of-program evaluations that examined everything from workplace readiness and supervision to professional growth, career exposure, and future opportunities. Although each intern followed a different path, their responses revealed a shared story of growth. Many began the program excited but uncertain about what to expect. By the end of the summer, they described greater confidence, stronger communication and teamwork skills, and a clearer understanding of professional expectations. “This experience helped me become more confident, improve my teamwork and communication skills, and learn how to work professionally with others.” Interns also spoke positively about meaningful projects, department visits, supportive supervisors, team collaboration, and opportunities to connect with professionals. For many, the program became more than a summer job. It became a place to explore new possibilities, strengthen relationships, and discover abilities they had not fully recognized before.
For the first time in the history of the City of Petersburg Summer Youth Internship Program, SYIP established a coordinated social media presence designed to share the program’s impact with interns, families, community partners, and the greater Petersburg community. Through the program’s Instagram and TikTok accounts, SYIP content generated more than 24,000 combined views and over 850 interactions during the 2026 summer program. Approximately 47.4% of views came from followers, while 52.6% came from individuals who were not yet following the program. These results marked an important step forward in expanding awareness and allowing more people to see the interns, activities, partnerships, service projects, professional development opportunities, and special moments that shaped the summer. As part of this transformational year, Mr. Drew developed the program’s first official communication plan: The New Petersburg: Built with Youth | Young People. New Energy. New Petersburg. 2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGE 13 .2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG A Transformational Year Introduces the Program’s First Coordinated Social Media Presence Sharing the experience. Strengthening awareness. Amplifying youth voices.EXPANDING THE REACH OF SYIP The communication plan was created to position SYIP to capture the youth experience, give interns a stronger voice, and present the program in a way that was current, engaging, and reflective of the young people participating in it. The plan recognized that interns should not only take part in the program, but should also have opportunities to help tell its story. Through photographs, videos, reflections, interviews, event coverage, and social media content, the program began documenting the summer from the perspective of the youth it was created to serve. This work was also connected to Project L.I.F.T. Petersburg, an initiative that invited college interns to brainstorm and present ideas that could strengthen the Summer Youth Internship Program. One of their recommendations was to increase the program’s use of social media to improve visibility, build awareness, and provide current and future interns with a closer look at the SYIP experience. The creation of a stronger digital presence represented an important part of that progress. By reaching thousands of viewers, including a majority who were not already following the accounts, SYIP expanded its audience and introduced more people to the value of youth employment, professional development, community service, and meaningful mentorship. The success of this effort demonstrated that social media can be more than a place to post photographs. It can serve as a tool for storytelling, recruitment, recognition, community engagement, program growth, and youth expression. Through The New Petersburg: Built with Youth, SYIP began creating a lasting record of the summer while ensuring that young people were visible, heard, and recognized as an important part of Petersburg’s future.
2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG • WORK • LEARN • SERVE • GROW| PAGE 14 .2026 SYIP • CITY OF PETERSBURG SYIP and the Crater Health District Empower Youth Through Education, Conversation, and Collaboration Youth voices. Healthier choices. Stronger communities.BUILDING HEALTHIER COMMUNITIES TOGETHER The City of Petersburg Summer Youth Internship Program established a valuable partnership with the Virginia Department of Health’s Crater Health District, creating opportunities for interns to participate in meaningful conversations and community health initiatives. On Friday, July 17, 2026, SYIP hosted Teen Talk II: Building Healthier Communities Together in partnership with the Crater Health District and Greater Reach Community Services Board. Interns discussed mental health, substance use, trusted adults, healthy decision-making, and ways community programs can better reflect the needs and experiences of Petersburg’s youth. The session encouraged interns to speak honestly, share ideas, and recommend programs and activities that could help young people make healthy choices and avoid risky behaviors. On Friday, July 24, 2026, college interns participated in a Coloring Book Focus Group designed to support the development of engaging, youth-focused public health materials. Interns reviewed concepts and provided feedback on how health, wellness, public health services, and medical information could be presented in ways that are relatable and easy for young people to understand. Interns were thoroughly engaged and enjoyed both experiences. Participants later identified the sessions in their program evaluations as some of the best and most memorable parts of the 2026 Summer Youth Internship Program. These activities demonstrated the importance of including young people in the development of programs and resources created for their generation. Through this partnership, interns were not only learning about public health— they were helping shape how public health information may be shared with other young people throughout the community.