There were two goals of the 2009 Youth Summit: to make the kids and their parents aware of recreational activities in town, and to help families prepare for and find jobs.

The summit, held at the Holton Career and Resource Center, included groups such as Durham Public Schools, Job Link, and Durham Technical College.

"Durham Public Schools are offering vocational classes in small engine repair, barbering school and networking classes," said James Dickens, of Durham's Office of Economic and Workforce Development.

Durham Technical College was promoting their spring classes for high school students who want to get ahead.

Courtney McCollum of Job Link said they hoped to help youth by teaching them how to interview and prepare resumes.

McCollum said they are also working with young people trying to find seasonal jobs.

"Seasonal jobs can range from customer service positions, cashiers and stockers but we have all that information at our JobLink table," McCollum said.

Youth Rashida Smith said she took advantage of everything the organizations had to offer.

"I do have a job interview today, but I did pick up some application so if that doesn't work out, I have a back up plan," Smith said.

Kimba Sambou with the North Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Services said the summit also offers opportunities to kids and adults with disabilities.

"Vocational Rehabilitation Services is for anyone with a disability who wants to go to work or college. It really helps people with disabilities obtain employment," Sambou said.

The city of Durham also holds a youth summit in the summer focusing on similar issues.