Career Exploration Trip Opens Doors for Clarksdale and Jonestown Youth
Fifteen Club members from Clarksdale and Jonestown recently stepped into the world of hospitality and career possibilities during an unforgettable visit to the Isle of Capri Casino and Hotel in Lula, Mississippi.
The trip, made possible through the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Mississippi Delta's partnership with the Caesars Foundation, gave young people an up-close look at real career opportunities in the hospitality industry. The Caesars Foundation awarded our organization a $10,000 grant through the "Caesars Makes Change" initiative to support our Future Ready goals, helping prepare Club members for workforce success.
"I thought it would be a great idea to include our Jonestown members in this opportunity as well, and I am so glad that we did. It gave our members from both communities the chance to come together and experience something new."
— Alexandria Henderson, Unit Director, Clarksdale Club
Boys and Girls Club members with Isle of Capri team in Lula, Mississippi
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Career Paths
Upon arriving at 4:00 PM, the group was warmly welcomed by the Isle of Capri leadership team. Throughout the visit, members met with professionals across multiple departments, learning about the skills and pathways needed for careers in:
Security – Keeping guests and property safe
Slot Operations – The technology and service behind gaming
Hotel Front Desk – Customer service and hospitality
Table Games – Guest engagement and entertainment
Food & Beverage – Culinary arts and restaurant management
Each department provided an introduction to their work, giving members a realistic view of what it takes to succeed in their field.
"The children were very engaged and enjoyed learning directly from the professionals."
Club members learn about career opportunities from Isle of Capri staff
Hands-On Learning and Q&A
One of the most exciting parts of the experience was the chance for members to ask questions. The young learners took full advantage, engaging directly with professionals and gaining insights that can't be found in a textbook.
The group also toured the Human Resources Department and several other areas throughout the hotel, getting a behind-the-scenes look at how a large hospitality operation functions.
A Meal to Remember
After all the learning and touring, everyone enjoyed a fresh meal provided for the group—complete with sandwiches, chips, cookies, and drinks. The members were especially excited about the unlimited cake and beverages! It was a wonderful time for everyone to relax, talk, and enjoy each other's company.
Gratitude and Partnership
A very special thank you to Cynthia Smith and her amazing team at the Isle of Capri for welcoming our members and treating everyone with so much kindness and hospitality. They went above and beyond to make sure our members felt comfortable and special.
We are truly grateful for the opportunity they provided and for taking the time to pour into our youth.
"The day was filled with meaningful conversations, hands-on learning, great food, and lots of smiles. Our members truly enjoyed themselves and had an amazing time."
— Alexandria Henderson, Unit Director, Clarksdale Club
Building Future-Ready Youth
This career exploration trip is part of our broader Future Ready initiative, supported by the Caesars Foundation grant. By connecting young people with real-world professionals and career pathways, we are helping them dream bigger and prepare for bright futures—right here in the Mississippi Delta.
We look forward to more opportunities to partner with the Caesars Foundation and the Isle of Capri team to provide our members with experiences that help them learn, grow, and explore the many possibilities available to them.
Boys and Girls Club members smile after a day of career exploration at Isle of Capri
Help Us Create More Opportunities
Your support makes experiences like this possible. Consider making a gift to help us continue providing life-changing programs for youth across the Mississippi Delta.
