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10400 Detrick Avenue
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Scott Ellinwood Friday, July 23, 2004 (301) 969-6736
LOCAL TEENS BENEFIT FROM HOC’s CAREER TRAINING Gear Up! Program Gives Students Exposure to Business
Tyra Thompson has just completed a business plan and launch strategy for her first corporate venture, TLP Child Care. She used grant money as start-up funding and has an aggressive marketing plan to attract additional investors. Tyra Thompson is just 15 years old.
A rising sophomore at Magruder High School, Tyra is part of the Gear Up! Program for young residents of Housing Opportunities Commission programs. Gear Up! exposes students, aged 15-17 to successful life strategies, including career planning, public speaking and basic business principles.
Gear Up! puts students through a rigorous five week program, that requires attendance at three six hour sessions each week. This year’s program culminated in a graduation ceremony held at Buca’s Italian Restaurant in Gaithersburg, and students were required to present their business plans to their peers.
Tyra seems energized by her experience with Gear Up! and plans to participate in the program next year. Asked what she would say to other teens about her path to success, she said “[They] should go out, volunteer and do internships. You’ve got to get people to recognize you. Gear Up! has taught me to never give up – your struggle will eventually lead to success.”
Pictures and interview opportunities available upon request
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