SULLIVAN COUNTY -- It's never too early to start thinking about a career, especially at the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Town of Wallkill, Inc. The organization strives to inspire, motivate and encourage young people to think about their futures.

Senior Unit Director, Barbi Neumann-Marty, said the goal of all Boys and Girls Clubs is to get their kids work ready. While the pandemic halted some of their in-person programs, one way they continue to educate their kids about different careers is the World of Work series, which she says is the, “perfect fit in encouraging positive youth development during a pandemic.”

Neumann-Marty oversees the initiative, which stars 11-year-old Aidan Dusenbury. Together, with her behind the camera and Dusenbury in front of it, they've traveled to different businesses across the region. Dusenbury comes prepared with questions and gets a tour of the business.

Once Program Director, Shane Merone, edits and creates each episode, they are posted to the club's Facebook page and YouTube channel for their kids and the public to enjoy.

Wherever he goes, Dusenbury concludes his interviews with the same signature question: “If you could give your 11-year-old self advice or words of wisdom, to prepare yourself for the World of Work, what would it be?”

Dusenbury has quite the acting resume already, having been involved with the Forestburgh Playhouse, SUNY Sullivan, Shadowland Stages and the Sullivan County Dramatic Workshop.

“It's fun to play a character and express yourself,” he said.

When he isn't acting, Dusenbury enjoys skiing, snowboarding and his recent experience in a debate club.

Regarding the World of Work experience he said, “It's been really nice meeting new people since during quarantine you're not able to, and seeing what the different jobs are like.”

Just like the local youth watching World of Work, Dusenbury has also found himself thinking about different career paths. While being an actor was the original goal, he's enjoyed what he's seen at all the businesses he's visited, and now isn't quite sure what he wants to do.

Luckily he and his peers have a few more years to figure that out. Not to mention, many more upcoming World of Work opportunities.

So far, participating businesses have included Thalmann's Service Center, the Village of Monticello Police Department, Miss Monticello Diner, Kristt Kelly Office Systems Corp and Jeff Bank, among others.

Les Kristt, president of Kristt Kelly Office Systems Corp, said the experience was really fun and also educational for him.

“I got to interact with Aidan who was quite interested in the nuts and bolts aspect of my business and what my responsibilities are in running it,” said Kristt. “The experience had me reflect on my very long trip between entering the business in 1969 and where I am today. I am so happy to tell my story to Aidan on video and then have him share it with his friends and the public. It is programs like this that energize and excite our youth. Thank you Barbi and the Boys and Girls Club for the opportunity.”

If you're interested in being a part of future World of Work episodes, contact Neumann-Marty at bneumann@bgcorange.org or call her at 845-342-8833.