The Growth, Excellence, and Maturity program (GEM) is a unique and intensive 11- day career exploration camp held each summer for low income at-risk teenagers aged 18-21. The program serves to divert young people from the influence of gangs and drugs to channel their energies and abilities in a positive direction. The program was initially started by retired Falcons football player now Lutheran pastor, Mr. O. Dennis Mims. The camp sessions are held on local college campuses.

The GEM program this year will run from August 19-29 at California State University, San Bernardino. For more than 29 years the City of San Bernardino Employment and Training Agency has funded this youth development program.

While living in the college dorms the youth create a “micro-city” complete with a mayor, judge, chief of police, newspaper, bank, store, restaurant, theatre, and town council. This role adoption allows them to learn about careers and job skills as well as develop a sense of civic pride and personal responsibility through their self government.

“Creating a micro-city is a great way to deepen the campers’ understanding of the basic democratic processes and economic relationships,” said Mayor Patrick Morris. “It gives the young participants a deep insight of how local government works every day.”

An ice cream social will be held on August 26 at 3 p.m. in the Commons at Cal State San Bernardino that is open to the public. Participants of the program will have a chance to present their projects and mingle with public officials.

For more information, contact Annette Kelly at 909-888-7881 or annettekelly@sbeta.com.