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PowerHouse youth program urges Tavares council to let its mentors work in local schools
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Summary
PowerHouse founder Scott Chevalier presented student success stories and program data to the Tavares City Council on April 1, asking to place the program in local high schools and expand into middle schools and off‑campus options for older youth.
Scott Chevalier, founder of the PowerHouse Youth Project, told the City of Tavares council on April 1 that his 17‑week mentoring program has produced measurable changes for students and should be offered in Tavares schools.
Chevalier said PowerHouse focuses on “direction beyond diploma,” giving young people hands‑on vocational and life‑skills training and one‑to‑one mentoring. He cited county figures about disengaged youth and told the council that many students in Lake County lack career guidance: “We have young people who are literally disengaged, disillusioned,” he said, adding the program’s classroom model replaces desks with experiential activities.
Students who spoke during the presentation described personal improvements. “Since I came in here and you guys really showed me, I just didn't think about the consequences before I do something,” said a PowerHouse student, describing how mentorship changed her outlook. Another student described building a business plan and receiving donated equipment to start a mobile‑car‑detailing business.
Chevalier said PowerHouse adapts to each campus: some schools host two sessions per week, others one, and the group is launching a pilot of off‑campus programming for 18‑ to 22‑year‑olds. He said PowerHouse has worked with local employers and civic partners to place students in real‑world opportunities and that trainers follow up with students after sessions.
Mayor (speaker 1) and council members asked how the program would be introduced to Tavares High School. The mayor suggested Chevalier approach the principal and offered that the council could write to the superintendent if needed; Chevalier said the starting point is meeting with school leadership and local business partners.
The presentation included several testimonials and images of student outcomes presented by Chevalier and accompanying students. Chevalier offered to return with more detail and to work with council and staff on potential local partnerships.
Next steps mentioned at the meeting: Chevalier will follow up with school principals and council members, and council members encouraged him to meet with local business leaders and administrators to identify funding and space.
