What does it mean to plan for the future of young people in Buffalo? That's the precise question that the Buffalo Futures program aims to answer, and has begun to answer, as the program turns 1 year old. Buffalo Futures does this by helping aspiring young professionals identify, explore, and pursue local, high-demand career pathways. Aspiring young professionals who choose to participate in the program sign up online through the Buffalo Futures platform, where they fill out a profile expanding on their personal and professional goals and can explore various careers using the career path exploration tool. After filling out a profile, aspiring professionals meet with a Success Coach and Peer Mentors either virtually or in person at the Buffalo Futures HUB, which acts as an advising and gathering space, providing guidance and community. Buffalo Futures has helped to connect over 490 aspiring professionals with resources, educational opportunities, and new career pathway, partnering with organizations including Best Self's Black Mental Health Response Team, RPM- Real Power Movement, TechBuffalo, SayYes, and Open Buffalo.

CELEBRATING A SUCCESSFUL FIRST YEAR OF BUFFALO FUTURES

Community members and Buffalo Futures Youth Council members gathered in the HUB last week for a celebration of the program's first year of accomplishments and to offer in person tours of the space. Check out a video recap below!