Friday, September 11, 2026 0 Community Events Successful 4x4 pilot helps local youth build skills and explore municipal careers Fourteen local youth gained valuable hands-on work experience this summer through the Town of Devon’s first 4x4 Youth Micro Work Experience Program, delivered with funding support from the Devon Lions Club. The pilot program gave youth ages 14 to 17 an opportunity to spend 16 hours working alongside Town staff, gaining practical workplace experience while exploring different careers in municipal government. Participants worked with staff across a variety of Town departments, getting a behind-the-scenes look at the many services that help keep Devon running. Fourteen Town employees volunteered as supervisors and mentors, helping participants build workplace skills, explore potential career paths and learn more about serving their community. The 4x4 Program was created in response to a gap in local employment and work experience opportunities for younger youth, as well as feedback received directly from youth in the community. “I’m incredibly proud of the youth who took a chance on this pilot and brought so much enthusiasm to their placements,” said Ki Wilson, FCSS Supervisor. “I’m also very grateful to my colleagues across the organization who stepped up to mentor our participants and make their experiences meaningful, and to the Devon Lions Club for providing the funding that helped make this opportunity possible.” With support from the Devon Lions Club, each participant received a $200 honorarium after completing the program in recognition of their time and commitment. “Our 4x4 Program was a fantastic success,” said Mayor Jeff Craddock. “It was great to see local youth building new skills, exploring different careers and learning more about the work that goes into serving their community. Thank you to everyone who helped make this first year such a positive experience.” The 4x4 Youth Micro Work Experience Program launched as a pilot in July 2026. The Town will use feedback from participants and supervisors to evaluate the program and consider opportunities to offer youth work experience initiatives in the future. Share Print