Stories and Highlights

What's Happening at Connected Lane County

Here you'll find the latest stories about our programs, youth, partners, and so much more! Follow along to stay up to date!

Youth Highlight: Parker

By Admin | September 18, 2023

Parker’s Journey at Spark on 7th Meet Parker, a talented young entrepreneur! His journey from high school to the inception of his clothing line, Honyx LLC, is nothing short of inspiring. Parker’s introduction to the world of manufacturing technology came during his senior year at Willamette High School. It was then that he discovered the…

Navigate Wonder Week 2023

By Admin | August 17, 2023

In July, the Navigate program’s second Wonder Week unfolded seamlessly, inspiring and empowering young adults. This immersive event at Spark on 7th focused on job readiness and career exploration. Each day, Navigate youth gathered for dedicated learning, growth, and new opportunities.

Invention Lab Cohort A participants at Spark on 7th

Invention Lab 2023

By Admin | August 17, 2023

Our Invention Lab is more than a summer program – it’s a transformative experience that empowers high school youth to stretch the boundaries of technology and creativity.

Izel running a machine at Rosen Aviation

Elevate Summer Internships 2023

By Admin | August 16, 2023

In the heart of Lane County, a wave of youthful energy and ambition swept through this summer, as 62 aspiring minds embarked on a transformative journey through the 2023 Elevate Summer Internships. Last week, we had the privilege of celebrating the remarkable achievements of these interns at our Summer Internship Celebration. This event served as a testament to the dedication and hard work of our 62 interns, all juniors and seniors, representing 15 school districts and 23 schools within Lane County.

Youth displaying invention at Invention Lab 2023

Students debut inventions with Connected Lane County’s STEM program

By Admin | August 15, 2023

Student inventions included ‘wearable tech,’ like customized jackets, water bottles and more. Check out this story at registerguard.com.

Students picking out books at BookFest

Lane County program provides free books to 3,000 K-2 students

By Admin | August 15, 2023

BookFest was started six years ago by Connected Lane County and United Way with the aim of keeping kids inspired to read and preventing what’s called the “summer slide.” Read more on KLCC.org.

Students selecting books at BookFest 2023

BookFest aims to promote summer reading for local students

By Admin | August 15, 2023

BookFest is a community-wide book gifting program providing thousands of K-2 students with new books as they head into summer. Read more on KEZI.com.

Maia standing proud!

Youth Highlight: Maia

By Admin | August 15, 2023

Maia’s Inspiring Journey with the Navigate Program At the heart of the Navigate program lies the belief that with the right support and guidance, every young individual can overcome adversity and reach their fullest potential. Maia’s story is a testament to this philosophy, showcasing the transformative power of the Navigate program in shaping young lives.…

Bella working her magic at BRING Recycling in her summer 2022 Internship.

Youth Highlight: Bella

By Admin | July 17, 2023

Bella’s Journey From New Mexico to the Art Institute of Chicago We are thrilled to present the inspiring story of Bella, a talented young artist who joined our community after moving from New Mexico to Eugene during her freshman year of high school. Bella’s transition to a new city was initially challenging. Yet she soon…

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