NORTHEAST PA — The River Reporter and Wayne Pike Workforce Alliance (Workforce Alliance) will partner to provide local high school-aged students with opportunities to enhance their reporting skills, volunteer in their communities and contribute to civic engagement initiatives by participating in the River Reporter’s Youth News Ambassador Program.

The Workforce Alliance empowers individuals and strengthens communities by fostering career exploration, lifelong learning and economic advancement. Through strategic partnerships, accessible education and responsive workforce development, they break down barriers, link job seekers with employers and advocate for inclusive, sustainable growth.

The alliance’s youth programs include the Career Academy, job coaching, career counseling and training subsidies. By partnering with the River Reporter’s Youth News Ambassador Program, the Workforce Alliance will offer news-minded local students another pathway to meaningful opportunities that open doors to their success. 

“At Wayne Pike Workforce Alliance, we are always looking for innovative ways to connect young people with experiences that help them learn, grow and become active members of their communities,” youth workforce development specialist Jenna-Lee Franciosa said. “We are excited to partner with the River Reporter to offer students an opportunity to develop their communication skills, engage in meaningful civic activities and gain hands-on experience that can open doors for their future. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.”

As River Reporter Youth News Ambassadors, Workforce Alliance students will practice valuable, real-world skills; learn to recognize and manage bias, both in the media they consume and in the positions they develop; become part of a team working to provide accurate information, promote civic engagement and cultivate public appreciation for local, independent news; and distinguish themselves in ways they can leverage for future employment, internships, college admissions and scholarships.

The Youth News Ambassador program is funded by the Rob Stuart Media Futures Fund at Wayne County Community Foundation with support from the Greater Pike Community Foundation and donations from generous community members. 

To learn more about the program, email social@riverreporter.com. To donate to the Rob Stuart Media Futures Fund, visit www.bit.ly/RSMFFdonate. To subscribe to the River Reporter, visit www.riverreporter.com/subscribe.