E4: A Program that Inspires

This week, I read an article that highlighted a non-profit program called E4 and involves students ages 16-22. This organization focuses on the arts, sciences, and technology to help youth from underserved areas find and pursue pathways that lead to creative careers. By providing the participants with hands-on training, mentors, and real-world experiences, students are able to learn more about themselves and what their passions are.

The name E4 is a culmination of the following terms: engage, educate, employ, and empower. By engaging the students, they are able to identify their interests. Through educating the students, they are able to determine how their interests could lead to creative careers. The program works with partners to employ these students in internships. The final "e" is empower and this program helps to support students to follow through and pursue their goals.

E4 consists of many core programs, but I took a further look into the Austin Digital Heritage Project and E4 Virtual Archive. This program delves into using digital storytelling by promoting digital and cultural literacy. The students in this program work with professionals to collect and create digital stories from the older residents of color in Austin. This immersive program was highlighted as a Get Involved Spotlight for KUT 90.5.

As I read this article, I was immediately making ties back to the ESL classroom and students who are learning a second language. For someone learning another language, it is much tougher for them to share information about themselves, or their culture, when they do not speak the same language. Digital storytelling provides a creative outlet for them, while practicing their language skills. The other students in the class can listen and learn more about one another, and in-turn strong relationships are built. By gaining an understanding of their peers, a strong classroom community can be fostered. Although the E4 program focuses on creating career pathways, their mission statement and ideals can be used in any classroom. It is important for students to be able to express their interests and learn how that can lead to a successful educational experience.

Lee, M. (2021, June 1). Get Involved Spotlight: E4 Youth. KUT Radio, Austin's NPR Station. https://www.kut.org/life-arts/2021-06-01/get-involved-spotlight-e4-youth.