The Covarrubias-Aprendamos Foundation strives to be a vehicle to support impactful grant projects and programs that help to create opportunities for local youth to thrive.
Earlier this year, our foundation partnered with Ngage NM to invest in their Supported Success Internship Program (SSIP.) Through this program, Ngage NM is helping to bridge the gap between school and meaningful career pathways by connecting students—especially those who have been historically undervalued—to paid, supported internship experiences in their own community. By working with schools, employers, and community partners, the Ngage team ensures students are mentored, supported, and set up to succeed.
“Across the board we witness students grow in confidence, communication, and develop a sense of belonging in professional spaces. For many, this is their first opportunity to see themselves in a career pathway and to build relationships with caring adults outside of school,” said Marisa Dewolf, K-Career Coalition Coordinator for Ngage NM. They have also received feedback from the interns on how the program has helped them develop and grow, both personally and professionally. “Interns share that these experiences help them feel more motivated in school and more hopeful about their future. At the same time, employers gain a deeper understanding of how to support and invest in young people,” Marisa added.
The $5,000 grant investment from the Covarrubias-Aprendamos Foundation will allow Ngage NM to expand the program’s access to more students across the community and continue building a more inclusive system of work-based learning. “The grant strengthens our ability to provide meaningful, supported internship experiences for students who have historically not had access to these opportunities. Ultimately, it helps us move closer to a future where all students have equitable access to experiences that prepare them for life beyond high school,” said Candace Cichuniec, Programs & Operations Coordinator for Ngage NM.
According to Ngage, community partnerships are essential to making this program possible. They envision the SSIP as part of a larger, long-term effort to build a more equitable and connected system for young people in the region, from early learning through career. By removing barriers that often prevent students from accessing internships, particularly by supporting paid opportunities, coordination, and the infrastructure needed to ensure students and employers are well supported, Ngage is able to expand program access and provide internship opportunities that are impactful and sustainable.
“Without this type of support, many of these opportunities would remain out of reach for the students who could benefit most. We’re grateful to partner with organizations that share a commitment to ensuring all students have access to meaningful opportunities, caring connections, and clear pathways forward,” Marisa shared.
Thank you, Ngage NM, for your commitment to empowering youth in our community and for all you do to affect positive change in Doña Ana County. We are grateful to partner with you and work together to co-create impactful opportunities for future generations!