From Play to Pathways: Recreation, Enrichment, and Youth Workforce Development

In Part 2 of our conversation with Chad Norton, deputy director of the Wellesley Recreation Department, we explore how parks and recreation programs intentionally blend fun, enrichment, academics, and workforce development while staying, as Chad puts it, “relationship driven more than outcome driven.” Chad shares real-world examples of integrating STEM, literacy, and math into recreational settings, supporting teen staff as emerging professionals, and building strong partnerships with schools, libraries, and community organizations. This episode highlights how recreation departments and 21st CCLC programs can align efforts to create seamless pathways for students from summer learning to career readiness, while keeping youth engagement and strong relationships at the center of the work.