First Eagle Investments Prepares Youth for

A report from nonprofit think tank

The Brookings Institution identified highquality workbased learning experiences as a key lever for advancing equity and economic opportunity for young people in the U.S., particularly for those of color and/or from lowincome backgrounds. Combining hands-on learning with supportive professional relationships, such programs not only help young people acquire the skills required in certain industries but also introduce them to career paths they might not have previously considered.

First Eagle Investments has served as a valuable corporate partner of Children’s Aid to help provide work-based learning opportunities to the youth of New York City. The relationship is rooted in First Eagle’s participation in the Equity Collective — a group of financial companies committed to the education, empowerment, and development of the next generation of diverse leaders.

In 2022, the investment firm orchestrated professional development workshops that gave students a look at the inner workings of their company and the financial industry. They arranged a career panel where students were able to hear from First Eagle employees in their Human Resources, Client Services, Finance, and Sales teams, and hosted a “Shark Tank” event in which students developed an invention and delivered 30-second pitches to a panel of volunteers. Such handson, in-person experience provided participants with exposure to different career possibilities and gave them access to a diverse group of professional role models.

First Eagle also recognizes that the more experiences and options youth have, the better — even if it is not in finance. During one firm-sponsored event, First Eagle asked students what they were interested in and many students expressed interest in art. The firm then leveraged their relationship with the Museum of Modern Art to arrange a private guided tour for students to view its vast collection of modern and contemporary works. With young people, especially those in lower-income areas who lack access to adequate art education, this tour was especially valuable.

“We are so fortunate to collaborate with the Children’s Aid team,” said First Eagle Vice President Christina Gee. “The enthusiasm and engagement from students have been incredible!” Through corporate partners such as First Eagle, Children’s Aid looks forward to continuing to open windows of insight and opportunity to our young people as they plan their futures.