YETI students celebrated at conclusion of summer program
By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Community Futures Wild Rose celebrated the achievements of their Young Entrepreneurs Training Initiative (YETI) students, Aug. 30, as the annual program concluded for 2024.
YETI is a locally focused, high speed business training program for high school students aiming to learn more about, launch, and maintain their own businesses.
Community Futures Wild Rose provides startup cash, resources and guidance to the students over the course of an eight-week program operated through the summer.
The course largely consists of sessions instructing business basics and presentations from experts in fields respective to the students’ chosen businesses.
Budgeting, goal setting, business startup and planning, and networking are all aspects of presentations given to the students throughout the program.
“The commitment and perseverance displayed by our students throughout these eight weeks is truly inspiring. They have consistently exceeded expectations, demonstrating a strong drive for success,” said Amber Link, chair of the board of directors at Community Futures Wild Rose. “We take immense pride in their accomplishments and eagerly anticipate the growth and success of their businesses.”
The YETI program had originally aimed to support five students over the course of this summer. Three students had dropped out of the program. Tyson Sailer and Meleah Parker remained to see their programs to completion and were recognized for their achievements.
Through the program, students are supplied with $500 at the beginning to act as injection of startup funds, and then must provide Community Futures Wild Rose with receipts detailing what the money was spent on to further the students’ business goals.
Upon approval from a school principal, participating YETI students may also be allowed to earn three high school credits following the completion of the course.
For any students who may be interested in enrolling in the YETI program next year, more information is available online through the Community Futures Wild Rose website.