Planting the Seeds of  Opportunity:  A CitrinCooperman  Perspective

With a mission of breaking the cycle of poverty by preparing middle school, high school, and young adult students to excel in today’s workforce, Think Big for Kids hosts regularly scheduled showcases designed intentionally to achieve that essential goal.
How does a showcase work?

At a Think Big showcase, middle school and high school students are introduced to local professionals who spend about an hour describing potential career options, fielding questions, and exploring the benefits of the sector – while engaging directly with the kids who represent the workforce of the future.

Understanding the value of a showcase from the presenters’ perspectives

Speaking with Jorge Lopez, Anthony Bianchini and Madison Heery of the CPA firm CitrinCooperman provided some keen insights into the process and explained why it is necessary.

“When we host a showcase, the first thing we do is ask the kids what they want do when they grow up,” says Madison. “It is important for them to consider their future – so the next question we ask them is what they think they are going to have to do to get where they want to be?  These two questions set the stage for the next sixty minutes. It doesn’t take long for the kids to begin to ask critical questions as we encourage them to take all possibilities into consideration.”

Visibility is critical

“One of the reasons I enjoy participating in the showcases so much is because it gives me a chance to explain what an auditor does and why an audit is an essential tool for business leaders. The kids relate well to us because we are young ourselves and they can envision themselves in our shoes someday,” adds Jorge.  “I learned about Think Big from one our firm’s audit partners and I liked the idea of planting a seed and introducing a great opportunity.”

Everyone who participates in a showcase gains from the experience. “I am glad I have a chance to give back and to watch the juices start flowing,” adds Anthony. “I appreciate being a part of the program – and adding value by exposing the kids to all kinds of industries.”

What formula works best?

The CitrinCooperman team has found that leveraging an open forum platform and breaking the room into small groups is very effective. This way they can ensure some one-on-one time as well as giving the kids the personal attention they deserve. In this informal atmosphere the students are comfortable asking the critical questions that help them dig a little deeper into the industry specifics.

The reward is the “why”

When asked what motivated them to become so involved as presenters for the Think Big showcases, Jorge, Anthony and Madison unanimously agreed, “It is really important to give back whenever you can, to make a positive difference, and educate the kids in a way that will give them a chance at a better future.”

“After all,” they added, “if you ask us why we do this – the answer is why wouldn’t we do this?”

If you want to know how you can be part of a Think Big for Kids showcase, please email Jenna Teschel at jenna.teschel@thinkbigforkids.org