Last week, 16-year-old Donovan Rivers, a senior at Bartram High School started his first job at Rhythm and Brunch, a local restaurant close to his school and home.
“I’ve always passed by [Rhythm and Brunch] but had never been in, and I’m glad that I now work with them, they have amazing food – I love their grits,” said Donovan.
Donovan is a busser and dishwasher at Rhythm and Branch, and he has big plans to move up in the restaurant world. He hopes to attend culinary school, and become a cook just like his dad used to be before becoming a TSA agent. They’re both passionate about cooking.
“My dad has taught me how to make macaroni, and breakfast foods. French toast is my favorite thing that I’ve learned from him, and I’ve learned so much from watching him.”
Donovan hopes to work his way up to cooking at Rhythm and Brunch and learn more from restaurant manager Tarik Rant too.
The job will help Donovan save up for culinary school, and support his family who moved back to Philly from Georgia in January. Working and making money creates welcome stability for him and his family, he said.
“It’s also a way of filling my days,” said Donovan. “I wasn’t doing anything after school, and now, what better way to fill my time than working and making money?”
Regina Young, the community schools coordinator at William T. Tilden Middle School, worked with Bartram High climate manager Juliann Gram to connect Donovan with the job. Tilden and Bartram are close to each other, allowing Julian and Regina to collaborate on student needs.
“There’s a lot of overlap in what we do,” said Julian. “And as I was looking for job opportunities for students, Regina helped point us in the right direction.”
Regina says she’s helped connect 12 other individuals with jobs at places including ACANA, Southwest Philadelphia Family Service Center (Catholic Social Services), Bartram Choice, National Workforce Opportunity Network, and Progressive Life Center.
“Working is meaningful because it adds a sense of pride and confidence to our existence,” said Regina.
So when she and Julian were talking about Donovan, an honors student who recently started applying for restaurant jobs but wasn’t hearing anything back, Regina contacted Rhythm and Brunch, a community business she’s built a relationship with during her time as a coordinator.
By making connections and facilitating partnerships, coordinators impact the lives of hundreds – even thousands – of residents each year. Regina ensures that students, families, and community members are connected with valuable resources. Working with local partners and businesses is key to her success.
“I have a history in the community,” said Regina. “Creating a welcoming environment is important – from the school buildings to surrounding businesses and organizations.”
Donovan is thankful. “When I first met Regina she told me about the job and that I’d be a great fit and that she’d already scheduled an interview. She told me ‘don’t be nervous,’ and was at the restaurant when I arrived to interview for the position.” Donovan said. “She’s really nice. She goes out of her way to get to know people.”
Best of luck, Donovan! We’re so proud and excited to see what you’ll be cooking up next!