Walgreens, CIS create internship program for Cape vocational students

Walgreens and Community Integrated Services were recognized by the Cape school board Jan. 25 as Community Champions for January.

Board member Janis Hanwell said the two community partners are working with the Cape High vocational program to provide Cape vocational students with a paid, six-week internship opportunity alongside the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation. 

CIS is an organization in Delaware that forms partnerships with public agencies, businesses, schools and community organizations to build a more inclusive, diverse and equitable workforce, Hanwell said. 

“This experience allowed the students to do typical Walgreens positions such as stocking and facing, conduct daily self-evaluations, learn important skills to be successful employees and gain information on how to budget,” Hanwell said. 

Students were able to lead their peers during work hours, Hanwell said, which promotes delegation and communication skills. This is the second year CIS has collaborated with Cape, she said, totaling 10 students who have attended and completed pre-employment training. 

By the end of both cohorts, Hanwell said, The Bellmoor, a previous location, and Walgreens were interested in hiring several of the students.