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TotalChild® Workforce Mentor Spotlight: Connor Vincent

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Meet TotalChild® Workforce Mentor, Connor Vincent

1. Where do you work and what is your job title?

I work for Hills Bank and my job title is Commercial Banker.

2. What is something you like to do for fun?

In my spare time, I really enjoy cooking and trying new culinary dishes with my wife.

3. What made you want to become involved in TotalChild® Workforce?

The main reason I wanted to get involved with TotalChild® Workforce is because of my desire to volunteer and give back to young adults. Before I started working for Hills Bank full-time, I experienced my fair share of employment struggles. During that time I wished to have someone that could relate to my struggles, listen to me, and support my employment and professional goals. Serving as a mentor with the TotalChild® Workforce program is my attempt to fill that position for young individuals that are going through the same thing I did.

4. HOW DO YOU SEE TotalChild® Workforce BENEFITING YOUTH?

I believe TotalChild® Workforce has tremendous value for the youth involved in the program for multiple reasons. First, the great people at Four Oaks provide a tremendous amount of support to individuals involved in the program. They serve as facilitators between young adults seeking guidance and experienced professionals looking to volunteer their time. Second, pairing the youth with relatively young professionals is effective because the two groups have a lot in common. Lastly, TotalChild® Workforce is beneficial for youth because it gives them real opportunities to explore careers and ask questions in a flexible setting. There are no grades, there is no homework (unless you’re paired with me), and there are certainly no dumb questions. Ultimately, it is about the employment development of youth and supporting them on their journeys to success.

5. How do you see TotalChild® Workforce benefiting the community?

This program benefits the community because it supplies the youth with the human capital and life experiences they will need to one day be independent. As one becomes more independent, they are able to act more selflessly and focus on positively building the community around them. On the other hand, it also encourages professionals to give back and volunteer their time. By volunteering, you meet new people, hear uniqiue stories, and share more about yourself than you otherwise would in a cubicle. Participation in TotalChild® Workforce and similar programs is foundational to a strong and healthy community because it builds and fosters trust. After all, who wouldn’t want to be a part of a community where we all trust one another?

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