David Yorka is the secret identity of Community Action Hero who uses his superpowers of Super Vision, Trend-tracking to rid the planet of senseless mediocrity, boredom and drudgery.
Specialties: Career Formation training, Strategic Planning, Program Design to meet community problems. Send David a Message
We show middle school students their individual career identity and beginning of a career path.
I’ve spent years working with middle school age youth and teachers, HR. and all its forms and functions. I’ve received input from leadership from the private sector to create a Youth Business Project like no other.
When a student asks me the right answer to the “what do you want to be..” question, I explain that they have a unique gift = Superpower. This concept of using our modern hero mythology resonates with Students immediately. In the process we go deeper with Students to understand their “Talent” which is connected to their gift = Superpower. When you learn how to learn and learn how to earn.
About 20yrs ago my friend T. Wayne Gatewood and a roomful of young students and parents met and introduced our first youth street crew (“kids at work”) and jump started with a youth lawn service with a group of kids that completed an interview process and agreed in writing to commit to the first “learn and earn” program Summer Youth Entrepreneurship Project.
The following Summer a new project; The Team Street Summer Youth Project. A group of Middle School Students generated $10,000 door hanging coupons for Donatos Pizza and all 13 Rally’s restaurants in Central Ohio.
The beginning of what became the Academic Skillz Career Preparation Program. I moved forward taking a position as Director of Workforce Development at United Way of Central Ohio.
I brought together a top notch project team of the best local talent from Nationwide Insurance, TRANSIT ARTS,Communities in Schools, The Ohio State University, Donatos Pizza, Musgrove Career Counseling, Columbus Public Schools,The Graham School and Community Research Partners
Do check in to discover the concepts, breakthroughs and cutting edge ideas that are the bedrock of Academic Skillz.
David Yorka is to "Community Action" what James Brown was to soul music...he is the straw that stirs the drink! Dave is a man of action and integrity. David Yorka is honest, hard-working, fun, and a joy to know.
US Peace Corps Jamaica, Malley's Chocolates. VP Sales (16yrs) retired
Fresh out of college, I had the pleasure of working on a team with David. His professionalism paired with his remarkable sense of humor made for an amazing work environment. David's knowledge of all things Career-related and his ability to impart that knowledge to others on our team allowed for us all to grow as an organization. I am proud to have learned from David and used the tools he gave me to this day.
Global Talent Leader, Stryker, The Ohio State University
David Yorka's energy and willingness to test conventional wisdom helped us further our work in community impact. He helped us understand the importance of analyzing how people seeking employment and meaningful work interact with programs and systems designed to serve them.
He's future-oriented; skilled at using new and different communication channels; and, has a great sense of humor.
United Way of Central Ohio, Assistant Vice President, Public and Private Partnership (33 years)
David is an inspiring mentor, associate, and friend of mine. He has such clarity in his vision and purpose in serving the needs
of those less fortunate in our community. He is a true philanthropist who is absorbed in the welfare of others. David's unique perspective and wealth of knowledge has been a true blessing to me and most certainly to those he's touched through his efforts.
Executive Search Consultant Gallagher-Franklin University
David is a tireless advocate for literacy, equality, and personal empowerment in Columbus. His commitment to quality, creative approach to problem-solving, and devotion to 'the cause' are undeniable. His spirit fills the room and his energy quickly spreads to support and inspire those in his presence.
Assistant Director, Saint Gabriel Catholic Radio 820 FM
David is a tireless advocate for literacy, equality, and personal empowerment in Columbus. His commitment to quality, creative approach to problem-solving, and devotion to 'the cause' are undeniable. His spirit lls the room and his energy quickly spreads to support and inspire those in his presence. David is a tireless advocate for literacy, equality, and personal empowerment in Columbus. His commitment to quality, creative approach to problem-solving, and devotion to 'the cause' are undeniable. His spirit lls the room and his energy quickly spreads to support and inspire those in his presence.
Certified Professional Coach. Certified Master Specializing in Financial Capabilitiy. Career Development and Transitioning executives, professional and students.
Motivated Students Discover A Pathway To The Work Best Suited To Their Talents and Curiosity
“You Only Have Your Thoughts And Dreams Ahead Of You. You Are Someone. You Mean Something.”
-Batman
