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Monica Marcum, Director of Volunteer Services at Mercy and coordinator of the hospital's YouthWorks program, speaks with Governor Martin O'Malley at the recent press conference.

Governor Martin O'Malley Leads Press Conference July 30th At Mercy Medical Center In Recognition Of Baltimore Youth Employment Program

Governor Martin O'Malley shared lunch with 8 young employees of Mercy Medical Center on July 30th, all members of Baltimore City's YOUTHWORKS program. YouthWorks places well-trained, multi-skilled high school and college students into a 6-week summer employment with partnering businesses, governments and organizations, including Mercy.

State participation in YouthWorks has soared with 29 State agencies and offices now employing a combined 398 students for the summer of 2008.

"When a young person is invested in a summer job, it not only provides an opportunity to earn a little extra money, but it also raises the confidence and sense of accomplishment for that young person," Governor O'Malley said at the press event. "This contributes to smarter students, safer neighborhoods, and a highly skilled and prepared workforce for the future. Every Maryland employer has an obligation to participate similarly toward the future of our young citizens."

Gov. O'Malley used the event to highlight the largest participation rate since the program's inception. More than 6,500 young people were placed in summer jobs this year through YouthWorks, including nearly 400 employed by State government agencies and offices.

The day's event took place at Mercy Medical Center, which has hosted one YouthWorks student for three of the past five years. This year, Mercy increased their participation to 8 students.

"Mercy believes in providing opportunities for Baltimore's young people, form our work with nursing and pharmacy students to our partnership with the Cristo Rey Jesuit School's corporate internship program. We're pleased to continue this tradition by participating in the City's YouthWorks summer jobs campaign," said Sister Helen Amos, RSM, Executive Chair of Mercy's Board of Trustees.

Monica Marcum, Director of Mercy's Volunteer Services, introduced high school student Shaniqua Turner who has assisted in Mercy's Breast Imaging Center and fetal care units. Ms. Turner addressed the press conference, noting how much she appreciated the opportunity to work at Mercy and how much she had learned, hoping to someday return to Mercy as an employee.