Empowering New York City Students: Little Island’s Workforce Development Program
For both native New Yorkers and tourists, Little Island might best be known as one of the best places in the city to catch the sunset. But beneath its stunning landscape and artistic charm lies a profound commitment to empowering the city’s youth.
Conceived and funded by The Diller-von Furstenberg Family Foundation, this urban oasis offers a diverse range of programs designed to empower New York City students, providing them with invaluable work experience, professional development, and pathways to meaningful careers.
A Commitment to High-Quality Jobs
Michael Wiggins, Director of Engagement & Strategic Programs at Little Island, has been instrumental in shaping the park’s approach to workforce development since its inception in 2018. “When I took the job, I talked about the kind of work that would be most impactful in making a change in the world. It was really about creating high-quality jobs in a space with a lot of seasonal opportunities,” Wiggins explains.
Little Island’s Workforce Development Program offers three distinct pathways: the Fellowship Program, the Usher Corps Program, and the newly introduced Emerging Producers Program. Each of these initiatives is crafted to provide students with hands-on experience and professional development in various fields, from park administration to artistic programming.
Nurturing Career Aspirations
The Fellowship Program is designed for college students and recent graduates aged 21 or older. Fellows are assigned to specific departments within Little Island that align with their career goals. This summer, the park offers fellowships in Education Programs, Human Resources, Park Administration, and Social Impact. “The idea is to engage, educate, and employ New Yorkers, focusing on cultivating talented people who have potential and giving them opportunities to learn and earn,” says Wiggins.
One shining example of the program’s success is Terrell Mclean. Terrell began his journey at Little Island as an intern in 2018. Over the years, he transitioned from a Visitor Experience Host to a full-time Park Supervisor. “He demonstrated his potential early on, and we knew he would make a great addition to our year-round team. Terrell’s story is just one of many that highlight the lasting impact of our programs,” Wiggins shares.
For college students aged 18-26, the Usher Corps Program offers a summer job that helps them build hospitality skills and explore careers in the performing arts. Ushers welcome audiences into Little Island’s performance spaces and assist with production operations as needed. This program not only provides participants with essential work skills but also fosters a supportive peer network.
Michael Wiggins highlights the program's impact, stating, "Our Usher Corps Program is about more than just job experience; it's about creating a community where young people can grow and thrive together."
Emerging Producers Program: Fostering Creative Leadership
The newest addition to Little Island’s Workforce Development Program is the Emerging Producers Program, aimed at dynamic individuals aged 18-24. This program supports the curation, development, and execution of Little Island’s Teen Night program. Emerging Producers collaborate with the Education and Community Relations and Artistic Programming departments to create arts experiences for their peers.
Wiggins is particularly excited about this program, noting, “The Emerging Producers Program supports the creation, development, and execution of our summer Teen Night series. It’s about giving young people the resources and confidence to produce work that reflects their vision and cultural relevance.”
A Culture of Continuous Support
Little Island’s commitment to its workforce extends beyond the duration of these programs. Alumni of the Workforce Development Program maintain a strong connection with Little Island, receiving prioritized candidacy for work opportunities and invitations to networking and professional development events. Since 2018, 85 placements have been offered through the program, with an impressive 98% completion rate. Notably, 21 students have been hired back at Little Island, and 11 alumni are currently employed there.
“Our commitment is deeper than just the programs themselves. It’s about creating a culture where every team member feels valued and supported in their career journey,” Wiggins emphasizes. “We want our staff to feel cared for and have opportunities to learn and grow, regardless of their role within the organization.”
What’s Next
As Little Island continues to evolve, Wiggins and his team are working on an ambitious five-year plan to further expand their workforce development efforts. “We’re thinking about how to create a new approach to workforce development that can be propagated throughout the world. It’s not about charity; it’s about opportunity,” he says.
The future of Little Island’s Workforce Development Program is bright, with plans to continue fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where New York City’s youth can thrive. Through their innovative programs, Little Island is not only enriching the lives of young New Yorkers but also ensuring a vibrant and diverse future for the city’s workforce.
As Little Island continues to evolve, Wiggins and his team remain committed to the workforce programs and are always thinking about ways to expand their efforts. “We’re thinking about how we can continue to best serve the young people of New York City. It’s not about charity; it’s about opportunity,” he says.
