The City of Reading celebrated the achievements of 53 local students Monday afternoon during the 2025 Mayor’s Summer Youth Program graduation ceremony at Centro Hispano’s Casa De La Amistad Event Center.
The eight-week program, now in its fourth year, offered participants 20 hours of weekly technical and vocational training. Students gained hands-on work experience at city departments and local organizations, ranging from the Mayor’s Office and Public Works to the Reading Public Library, Olivet Boys & Girls Club, Salvation Army, Reading Area Water Authority, and others.
Program Manager Kenneth Perez said the initiative is designed to do more than provide a paycheck. “This program is more than just a summer job. It’s about opening doors, building networks, and helping our young people to see the potential they have within themselves,” Perez said, thanking Mayor Eddie Morán for his continued commitment to local youth.
Program Coordinator Jermell Mitchell praised the students for their growth over the summer. “I’ve watched y’all go from just on your cell phones, not able to interact with each other, to actually building bonds, teamwork, friendships,” Mitchell said. “By the end of these eight weeks, you guys are a team with a family.”
Two student speakers reflected on their experiences. Jillian Laws, a three-year participant, shared how the program taught her patience and professionalism while assisting residents at the city’s Human Relations Commission. “This isn’t just a summer job. This is where I learn how to answer calls like a pro, help people with their rent and utility bills, and most importantly, keep my cool,” she said.
Fellow graduate Edwin Nazario credited the program with helping him develop leadership skills and prepare for college. “Because of that exposure and the work ethic I built here, I pushed myself academically, graduating with a high GPA, earning scholarships that are allowing me to attend Kutztown University,” Nazario said.
Mayor Morán told graduates their success stories highlight the program’s impact. “It fills me incredibly,” he said. “While others are entering the workforce, some are going to college, some are possibly thinking of going to the military. It shows that this program is definitely positive.”
Morán noted that eight students have been hired by the city since the program began, including one this year as a part-time downtown ambassador. He said he hopes to expand participation from 53 students this summer to as many as 75 next year.
The mayor closed by encouraging students to build on the connections they made this summer. “It wasn’t just about a paycheck. It was about much more than that,” Morán said. “Remember that the relationships you have created here are genuine. Those are connections that you will have for the rest of your life if you want them.”