Mayor Thomas Menino's first summer job was cleaning furnaces. It was there where Menino first developed a work ethic and an appreciation of hard work.
As a result of that growing experience, Menino partnered with the Red Sox for The Mayor's Summer Jobs Program, an initiative that persuades students to actively pursue summer jobs while encouraging companies to give them opportunities.
"The Red Sox believe in helping the young people of Boston," Menino said in a phone interview. "They help with the summer job program, with the anti-violence program –– [designated hitter] David Ortiz helps with that program. There's so many programs the Red Sox believe in to improve the quality of life in the neighborhoods in Boston."
Red Sox team president Larry Lucchino has assisted with the program over the past 10 years. In 2011, the Red Sox hired roughly 84 students –– 24 who worked for the organization and 60 through Aramark Fenway Park –– as part of the program.
In addition to the Red Sox, more than 300 companies are involved. As Menino continues to expand the initiative, he'll continue to call on Lucchino to give the next generation of students a chance to get their start.
"The [Red Sox] believe the summer jobs are a very important because it put kids to work, gives them opportunities for a better future and it also gives them an opportunity to have economic independence," Menino said.
For more information, visit www.bostonsummerjobs.org
