The Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP)’s Prosper Appalachia initiative is empowering high school students to explore and secure career opportunities within their home communities. Rachel Davidson, now a graduate from Clay County High School, is a shining example of this mission, having successfully turned a career-exploration internship into her first job at Alexander and Associates in London, Kentucky, all with the guidance of the Prosper Appalachia program.
Like many students, Davidson was unsure where to begin her job search. She found her first step and a career ally in Edwina Blevins, a Prosper Appalachia Career Development Specialist. Blevins worked closely with Davidson to explore her interest in occupational therapy, ultimately securing her a work-based learning placement at Alexander and Associates.
“I didn’t think I would be able to get a job like this or be able to see if I was actually interested in it,” Davidson admitted. “I’m so glad that I was able to find this career and see if I enjoy it or not, to see if it’s something I want to do for the rest of my life.”
In just over a month, Davidson has thrived, taking on a variety of tasks from answering phones and scheduling appointments to assisting with general office needs. The experience has also helped her develop essential soft skills. “I’ve learned to be more efficient, more time efficient, and how to balance my work and school life,” Davidson said.
Greta Alexander, the owner of Alexander and Associates, emphasized the mutual benefits of the Prosper Appalachia partnership. “I think it’s wonderful for all businesses, and I think that the business benefits because you do get the extra hand and you know, getting to know people and people knowing that you do exist,” she stated. Alexander also praised the program’s value for students. “It really helps the kids because if they don’t get that experience, how would they know if they wanted to do that career or be part of something.”
For Davidson, the paid experience has been a powerful step toward independence. “I love being able to earn a paycheck,” she shared, noting that the money has helped with personal expenses like gas. Beyond the financial benefits, she highlighted the positive connections she’s built with her colleagues, who have “really taken me under their wing.”
The Prosper Appalachia initiative, fueled by a $7.6 million state award, places career development specialists directly in high schools to give students a crucial jumpstart on their careers. The program provides early exposure to career options and the resources needed to succeed in the modern workforce. By connecting students with local employers for internships and work-based learning, the initiative helps them discover fulfilling opportunities and chart a successful career path in Eastern Kentucky, preparing the next generation of workers.
About the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP): EKCEP, a nonprofit workforce development agency headquartered in Hazard, Ky., serves the citizens of 23 Appalachian coalfield counties. EKCEP is funded by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, along with various federal and state grants and private donations. Learn more at ekcep.org.