Goodwill Industries of Ventura and Santa Barbara counties will present the Level Up Youth Summit, a career and leadership event designed to inspire, educate and empower young people as they prepare for their futures.

The summit will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 6 at Allan Hancock College Fine Arts Complex in Santa Maria.

The Level Up Youth Summit will bring together students, educators, employers, and community leaders for a day focused on career exploration, workforce development, and personal growth, organizers said.

Participants can connect with industry professionals, learn about career pathways, participate in interactive workshops, and explore internship and employment opportunities.

The summit will also focus on scholarship opportunities available to local youth.

A highlight of this year’s event is the partnership between Goodwill Industries of Ventura and Santa Barbara counties and CoastHills Credit Union.

Together, the organizations will award four scholarships and four laptop computers to four outstanding student winners, helping remove barriers to higher education and career success while investing in the future of our local youth.

“At Goodwill, we believe every young person deserves access to opportunities that help them build a successful future,” said Osvaldo Sotelo executive director.

“The Level Up Youth Summit is more than an event, it’s an investment in the next generation of leaders,” Sotelo said

“Through our partnership with CoastHills Credit Union, we’re excited to recognize four exceptional students with scholarships and laptops that will support them as they continue their educational and career journeys,” Sotelo said.

During the summit, attendees will gain insights into:
• Career pathway exploration
• Networking with employers and community professionals
• Interactive workforce readiness workshops
• Internship and job opportunities
• Scholarship opportunities

The event is made possible through the collaboration of community partners, including:

The Workforce Development Board of Santa Barbara County, Allan Hancock College, CommUnify, Lompoc Valley Medical Center, California Department of Rehabilitation, CoastHills Credit Union, Future Lompoc, and Creciendo Raíces.