(Baton Rouge, La.) – Urban Restoration Enhancement Corporation welcomes Trenecia Smith as Youth Program Coordinator/AmeriCorps member through Serve Louisiana. Over the last three years, UREC has partnered with Serve Louisiana to hire one AmeriCorps member to coordinate youth programs for a period of one year.  The annual opportunity provides valuable learning opportunities and experiences in the nonprofit sector.

Smith is a graduate of Remington College where she studied business administration.  In this new capacity, she will coordinate UREC’s College & Career Ready high school initiatives. She discusses her new role below.

Trenecia, you recently joined UREC as the Youth Program Coordinator. What are you responsible for in this position?

I am coordinating UREC’s high school after-school and summer programs with community partners, school officials and staff, vendors, volunteers and parents. My day-to-day duties include adhering to timelines, curriculum, budgets, and organizational policies to support grant objectives and ensure the success of the programs. I am also actively involved in the student recruitment process.

What are some of the personal and professional goals you would like to accomplish in this position?

One goal I’d like to accomplish is helping to increase enrollment for the College & Career Ready program. I’d also like to expand my knowledge on program development. I have prior experience in administration and K-12 school initiatives, and serving in this capacity will give me more leadership experience in these areas.

What projects are you working on?

Currently, I am preparing for the start of our 2019-2020 Pre-Law Institute program. We’ve added a book club component to the program this year, which will provide the students with a chance to read and discuss several books in relation to truth and racial healing. I’m excited about taking the lead on this project.

Why is after school learning important to high school students?

After school programs, such as those offered by UREC, help improve academic performance. They also provide structured and safe environments for students whose parents may be working. I look forward to working the with the youth who will participate in UREC’s youth programs this academic year, especially as they prepare for college!