Pistons partner with Grow Detroit's Young Talent program

(WJBK) - Summer is rapidly approaching and school will soon be out for thousands of students. The Detroit Pistons announced Monday they are joining the Grow Detroit's Young Talent initiative, a program which will be bringing thousands of jobs to local youth this summer.

President and CEO of the Detroit Pistons, Dennis Mannion, is helping sponsor 50-60 jobs this summer, but then there will be actual jobs at the Palace front offices for young people, too.

"Our real deal is to teach kids everything from hard work all the way through to commitment and proactivity. We think teamwork does that on the athletic field, but it also happens in the office place, too," says Mannion.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan hopes to have 8,000 jobs ready for people ages 14-24 in the city. There are more young people applying than there are jobs.

"It keeps the young children out of trouble; it's a good opportunity for them to network," says Courtney Friar.

One hundred and fifty businesses are on board, helping provide the jobs. Detroit Police Chief James Craig says this is good for the kids, but also good for the city.

"I believe this has a direct correlation on reducing crime," he says. "That doesn't mean our children are bad; I'm not suggesting that by any means. But, one of the things we look at - I don't care what city it is - [is] opportunities for our youth. Educational opportunities; job opportunities. This is a huge program. I'm excited about it."

Those interested in applying can get more information at www.GDYT.org.