CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – The City of Charleston is partnering with a consulting firm to expand a program that taps into the creativity of Charleston’s youth while teaching them business skills for the future.
The city is working with Community Solutions Consultants LLC to expand the Palmetto Artisan for Youth program beyond Palmetto Rose.
The program offers young people ages 9-16 a year-round opportunity to gain experience running their own business and also provides mentorship.
Organizers are excited to introduce new offerings this summer that will allow attendees to stretch their creativity and make a profit.
Jihare Jackson participated in the program and started his own company, Palmetto Artisan Company.
“We’re focusing on making roses, but we’re also going to make things like shirts with this logo on them. We’re going to make hoodies and all sorts of things,” Jackson said.
Eric Jackson, co-manager of Community Solutions Consultants, said Community Solutions helps develop business skills.
“We’re teaching kids how to manage their money, and we’re also getting the parents involved. We’re also working on economic development with the money they’re making,” Jackson said.
The goal, he says, is to give each participant their own LLC.
So far, 25 people have participated in the program.
Participants will set up shop most weekends from 10am to 5pm at Concord and Calhoun streets across from the South Carolina Aquarium, and will also have a booth at the Charleston City Market.
Organizers say it’s important to remember that roses are needed, and they encourage rose sellers to participate in the program year-round.
Youth who are interested in participating in the program can apply by filling out this form.
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