Events

Join us for an engaging presentation by Charles Baylis of the Military History Society of Rochester. Charles will share the mission and work of the Historic Military Museum, a local organization dedicated to preserving and honoring the region’s military heritage.

Through exhibits, research, and educational programming, the museum brings to life the stories of those who have served—highlighting their sacrifices, experiences, and lasting impact on our community and nation. Charles will offer insight into the collection and the museum’s efforts to ensure that “Every Day is Veteran’s Day.”

This is a great opportunity to learn more about local history, celebrate veterans, and gain a deeper appreciation for the preservation of military artifacts and memories right here in Rochester.

Military History Society of Rochester – Every Day is Veteran's Day 

Sgt. Mark “Sarge” Mitchell is a U.S. Army Iraq War veteran, advocate, and founder of Combat News, a veteran-led media platform focused on telling the truth about military service, veteran needs, and public policy impacting the veteran community.

After serving with distinction—including experiencing the realities of combat—Mitchell has dedicated his post-military life to continuing the mission in a different way: amplifying veteran voices and pushing for practical solutions to the challenges veterans face when they return home.

Villa of Hope Work-Based Learning & Community Development Program

The Villa of Hope Work-Based Learning and Community Development Program is designed to prepare students for successful, independent futures by connecting education with meaningful, real-world career experiences. The program focuses on ensuring every student has the opportunity to build on their strengths, develop professional skills, and graduate with a clear pathway toward college, employment, military service, apprenticeships, or skilled trades.

The program emphasizes the development of confident, responsible young adults who understand the importance of professionalism, leadership, and lifelong learning. Students gain hands-on experience through career exploration, workplace opportunities, and community-based learning that build both technical and interpersonal skills needed in today’s workforce.

Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, the program will launch a student-run Marketing Department offering practical experience in photography, graphic design, digital marketing, journalism, branding, and communications. Students will document events, create promotional materials, manage digital content, and build professional portfolios to showcase their work.

College and Career Readiness instruction provides students with foundational employability skills, including resume development, interviewing, communication, teamwork, workplace ethics, and financial literacy. These skills are reinforced through mock interviews, career portfolios, and direct engagement with professionals from a wide range of fields.

Students who are ready may advance into an Applied Transition Class, where the focus shifts to real-world application through internships, paid work experiences, mentoring, and leadership opportunities. This stage also includes instruction in independent living skills, budgeting, transportation, and long-term career planning.

Career exploration is a core component of the program, with students exposed to professionals across industries such as skilled trades, healthcare, law enforcement, education, business, and public service. These experiences help broaden awareness of career pathways while reinforcing that all careers hold value.

Leadership development is embedded throughout, including participation in the Leading in Crisis Leadership Academy, where students practice decision-making, collaboration, and communication in high-pressure scenarios.

The program also connects students to community resources and workforce development supports, including ACCES-VR and the Rochester Construction Training Center, to expand access to internships, training, and career pathways.

Overall, the Villa of Hope Work-Based Learning and Community Development Program provides students with the skills, experiences, and support needed to transition successfully into adulthood while contributing meaningfully to their communities and future workplaces.