The FANCY Ambassador Program is DETOUR’s youth-centered workforce development initiative designed for high school girls (grades 10–12) and college-aged FANCY Alumni. At its core, this program reframes workforce readiness through the lens of social-emotional learning (SEL), Positive Youth Development (PYD), and community partnerships. Rather than focusing solely on technical job skills, this model integrates mentorship, interpersonal skill-building, and emotional intelligence to support long-term success in both career and life.

Participants are exposed to real-world environments, project-based learning, and leadership experiences through collaborations with organizations such as the Jackie Robinson YMCA, RISE San Diego, and local school districts. This continuum of support—spanning from high school into college—ensures youth are not only workforce-ready but emotionally and socially equipped to thrive in the future of work.

Survey results and evaluations reveal significant increases in self-confidence, communication, and awareness of career opportunities. Youth reported improved problem-solving, critical thinking, and emotional regulation—skills essential for a resilient, purpose-driven life. Our greatest lesson: technical training alone is not enough. Youth need community, identity development, and a strong foundation of belonging to truly flourish.

This session offers a blueprint for workforce development that centers the whole person—inviting educators, community leaders, and employers to imagine systems that prepare youth for more than jobs. They prepare them for life.

Learning Objectives

1. Participants will learn how to integrate SEL and PYD frameworks into workforce development strategies to increase long-term success and belonging.

2. Participants will understand the role and structure of cross-sector partnerships (e.g., YMCA, RISE SD, schools) in delivering holistic workforce programming.

3. Participants will walk away with strategies to build a continuum of mentorship and support that spans from high school through young adulthood.