An initiative to link eager interns and business opportunities is off to a good start, thanks to Jeff City Start.
About 50 interns gathered recently for a welcome reception at the Capital hosted by Jeff City Start, a volunteer group connected with the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce.
In its first year, the group itself has enjoyed an impressive start.
The first phase of its initiative began in May 2011, when the group of young professionals reached out to interns to help them become more familiar with the many amenities offered by our community.
Jeff City Start now has moved into what committee Chairman Stephanie Bell refers to as the matching phase to connect interns and employers.
On its website - jeffcitystart.com - employers may complete and post forms indicating available internships.
Prospective interns may apply directly to the businesses for available opportunities. Interns also may complete and post a resume on the website.
In addition to committee meetings, Jeff City Start hosts monthly events for interns.
Events may be: social, like a recent gathering to watch Mizzou basketball; informational, like a scheduled February tour of the Missouri Supreme Court; or a combination, like the Capitol reception that included remarks from former interns.
The volunteer committee follows an ambitious agenda making matches, promoting the community, hosting informational and social events, arranging professional development, and more.
That's a lot of energy and effort from a core group of about eight volunteers.
Jeff City Start welcomes additional volunteers. The website includes a contact tab where prospective volunteers may indicate their willingness to assist.
The group's mission is to help interns learn more about our community and to help them grow professionally and personally as they explore career paths.
The goal is laudable and designed to benefit our community.
We invite you to explore Jeff City Start.