After a 10-year hiatus, the Summer 500 Program returned in 2026, connecting high school students with hands-on job experience through a partnership between Chatham County, the City of Savannah, the Greater Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System.

The Summer 500 Program provides paid summer internship opportunities for students across Savannah and Chatham County, giving rising high school juniors, seniors, and recent graduates ages 16 and older a chance to gain workplace experience, strengthen college and job applications, and explore potential career paths.

Jorden Jenkins and Calvionna Lemon were among 14 students who worked across eight Chatham County departments during June and July.

Jenkins, a rising senior at Woodville-Tompkins High School, used the Summer 500 Program to explore a new career path while gaining valuable professional experience.

As an intern with the Chatham County Public Information Office, Jenkins designed promotional materials for community events, assisted with projects, and attended meetings alongside her supervisors to learn more about her local government.

Through the internship, she strengthened her writing and public speaking skills while discovering a passion for graphic design.

Reflecting on her time in the program, Jenkins described her internship as an amazing experience that not only helped her improve important workplace skills such as writing and public speaking but also introduced her to a new interest in designing, which she never expected to develop.

She credits her welcoming and supportive supervisors for making the internship enjoyable and encourages other Chatham County students to take advantage of the program.

“My overall internship was amazing. It helped me improve in areas where I really needed it,” Jenkins said. “It’s a great opportunity that opens doors for students who are about to graduate or have already graduated”

For Lemon, a Groves High School student, the Summer 500 program provided an opportunity to turn her interests and wellness into an experience at the Chatham County Aquatic Center (CCAC).

During her internship, Lemon assisted with swimming lessons, organized equipment, handled front desk operations, and supported staff with daily responsibilities.

Lemon said one of the most rewarding parts of her internship was earning her CPR and First Aid certifications, credentials that will support her long-term goal of becoming a dental hygienist.

The experience also led to a part-time position at the CCAC, allowing her to continue serving the community while strengthening her skills.

Like Jenkins, Lemon also encouraged students to take advantage of future Summer 500 internships.

"It's a great way to gain work experience, learn new skills, earn money, and meet new people,” she said.