The Fresh Air Fund’s Career Awareness Program
Arthur Godsell leverages decades of experience in the construction industry to serve as the president of Godsell Construction Corporation in Hicksville, New York. As an active member of his community, Arthur Godsell also supports the Fresh Air Fund, a nonprofit organization that helps children in New York City experience nature through a variety of programs. Along with a host family program, the Fresh Air Fund maintains a number of additional camps and programs, including the Career Awareness Program. Youth in the Career Awareness Program commit to three years of recreational, educational, and camping activities at Camp Mariah and in New York City while they complete grades seven through nine. During the program, youth participants spend three-and-a-half weeks at Camp Mariah each summer, where they participate in workshops and activities that help them explore career options and address career-related challenges. Career campers also enjoy two weekends at Camp Mariah in the fall and spring that encourage students to think creatively and critically. In addition to camp experiences, youth in the Career Awareness program participate in job shadowing opportunities in New York City, have access to the Fresh Air Fund’s tutoring services, and attend a career fair.