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Sydney: Camille, Happy New Year! I was just thinking that it’s interesting how we’re both at different stages in our careers but both at a crossroads. I recently graduated and am navigating challenges that come with this new chapter, and you made a major career change a few months ago.
Camille: So true. When I left event management for strategic communications, it was exciting but daunting. I’m envious you already know about The DeBruce Foundation’s Agile Work Profiler© (AWP) and Career Explorer Tools©—they would’ve helped me figure out my next steps sooner. They’ve affirmed my career change though; I feel much more aligned now. How are you feeling about your next steps?
Sydney: I feel a mix of emotions, excited about my future but nervous about getting there! I’m grateful for my internship with The DeBruce Foundation, which introduced me to resources, like the AWP, that empower me in the workforce, help me market myself in grad school, and in determining my career.
Camille: I get that. Don’t feel too anxious—I’m proof a big career change is possible years after graduation with building new skills and growing my Network Strength. What you choose now is just one step in a future full of opportunities!
Sydney: I have also been doing my best to grow my Network Strength through events and mentorships since I learned how that and Career Literacy are the biggest factors in Employment Empowerment. I am excited for my future and feel better equipped with the resources from The DeBruce Foundation!



Nationwide TeenVoice Survey
The DeBruce Foundation recently partnered with American Student Assistance, utilizing their TeenVoice platform to conduct a nationwide survey – reaching over 600 youth aged 13-19.
The results were clear— students are eager to engage in career exploration but lack the right tools and opportunities to do so.
Using the Agile Work Profiler© and Career Explorer Tools© offered by The DeBruce Foundation, students and career seekers alike can learn more about their unique skills and how they can build their confidence in Career Literacy!

January is National Mentoring Month
At The DeBruce Foundation, we celebrate all the mentors who are helping others build empowered careers!
Ready to make an impact? Take the Agile Work Profiler to discover your Agilities, reflect on your career journey, and practice telling your story. Then, help others identify and develop their own Agilities, affirming their value and connecting them to resources like the Career Explorer Tools.
Kristie Larson Re-elected to Agricultural Business Council Board of Directors
Kristie Larson, Strategic Relationship Manager at The DeBruce Foundation, was recently re-elected as Vice Chairman for the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City.
Kristie has served on the Council board since April of 2020. She has an extensive background in the advancement of agricultural education through her work with the American Royal Association, National Pork Board, Heritage Trading Company, and Dairy Farmers of America. At The DeBruce Foundation, Kristie is developing innovative partnerships with stakeholders across the nation.
Partnering to Build Skills and Career Literacy in Yakima Valley
Skillsline and The DeBruce Foundation are proud to expand the Yakima Workforce Readiness Project, a pilot program equipping students, families, and communities with vital career development support and life skills. This initiative offers a user-friendly platform and professional support to foster education and employment opportunities. The collective aim: to create lasting generational impact in the Yakima Valley.
Learn more about this exciting partnership and its transformative mission at skillsline.co.

Indiana FFA Competes in Special Make48 Challenge
Make48 partnered with the National Future Farmers of America (FFA) to bring students from across Indiana together to participate. Their challenge was to create interactive displays educating the public about the diverse, positive impact of agriculture. Before starting, students took the Agile Work Profiler© and organized their teams using their Agilities.
The DeBruce Foundation’s own Kristie Larson joined the event as a judge to evaluate the seven teams’ work. Episodes of Make48 challenges premiere on This Old House Makers Channel on Roku, and are available on YouTube.


Career Corps Teams Innovate Festive Ideas
During the DeBruce Career Corps holiday party, members participated in a game called “Reindeer Tank.” Working in teams, they used their Agilities to design an innovative, unique, and practical seasonal product or service to win over the judges.
After three teams presented, the judges unanimously selected the winning idea: the “Auto Gift Profiler,” a product that surveys the recipient and automatically creates a personalized gift based on their responses.
Know a student interested in building theirprofessional skills and network with the DeBruce Career Corps? Learn more.

Expanding Career Pathways with Mentorship!
In this month’s blog, Gia Woodfolk, Strategic Communications Intern at The DeBruce Foundation, reflects on the empowering effect of mentorship on her life and how it has helped her prepare for her career after graduating.
She also discusses how The DeBruce Foundation’s resources can help mentors and mentees learn their Agilities, build Career Literacy, and more.
Read the blog for more of Gia’s story.

ProX Summer Internship Application Open
Help Kansas City teens build their future with ProX! ProX connects high school students to paid internships and real-world projects, offering a $1,250 stipend while they explore careers, gain confidence, meet mentors, and make lasting connections to prepare them for success.
Encourage the KC teens in your network to grow their skills, pursue their passions, and gain essential skills in the local workforce.
Learn more and share today! Applications are open at prox.org.
The DeBruce Foundation is Hiring
We are seeking a driven, visionary, and collaborative activator to serve as The Foundation’s Senior Director of Partnership Experience. This individual will lead The Foundation’s work in bringing tools, training, and resources to partner organizations, seeking greater impact through widespread adoption. This role reports directly to the Executive Director & COO.
Access the full job description and additional information here.
Join us for a training
Are you looking for resources to build career pathways in your classroom, curriculum, or organization? Register now to explore our career tools and join us in expanding career opportunities!
2/4 Agilities Tour
2/5 Introduction to Agilities: Resources for Educators
2/11-12 Agilities Coach Training (Indiana)
2/18 Agilities Tour
3/4 Agilities Tour
3/27-28 Agilities Coach Training (KC)