Ilitch Companies Again Host Cass Tech Students For Unique Internships With Some Of Detroit's Biggest Brands

DETROIT, June 20, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Twenty-four Cass Tech high school students are going to have an exciting and busy summer working alongside executives and staff at some of Detroit's most high-profile companies thanks to the Ilitch companies – Cass Tech internship program. The program kicks off its second year on June 20, 2016 and will place the students in 10-week paid internships at Ilitch companies including Detroit Tigers, Detroit Red Wings, Little Caesars, Olympia Entertainment and Olympia Development of Michigan. The internship program is rooted in Ilitch Holdings' Community Connect program, part of The District Detroit, a $1.2 billion mixed-use development transforming 50 blocks of underutilized areas in Detroit into a world-class sports and entertainment district. Cass Tech is a nationally-recognized school of excellence within Detroit Public Schools.

"We can't wait to welcome a new group of Cass Tech students to our companies this summer," said Christopher Ilitch, President and CEO of Ilitch Holdings. "We're proud to host bright young minds from the Detroit community and expose them to potential careers and job opportunities through unique experiences within our family of companies. They bring a great deal to our organization with their energy, enthusiasm and creativity."

During the comprehensive internship program, enrichment opportunities will include specially designed events led by Ilitch company executives including Tom Wilson, President and CEO of Olympia Entertainment, Dave Scrivano, President and CEO of Little Caesars Enterprises, Christopher Ilitch, President and CEO of Ilitch Holdings and more. Day courses have also been established that will provide media training, participation in a video shoot and even a visit to Comerica Park to take in a ball game, along with other outings and tours. In addition, the Cass Tech interns will work directly with Ilitch company employees on business projects throughout the summer.

"Last year, we were excited for the new partnership. This year, that excitement has grown to outright joy because we know the positive impact these internships are having on our students, some of the best in the world," said Lisa Phillips, Principal at Cass Technical High School. "We deeply appreciate the ongoing support we are getting from our neighbors in the Ilitch organization."

To qualify for the paid internships, students must be at least 16 years of age and have a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Community Connect

This internship program is one of many initiatives announced as part of Ilitch Holdings' Community Connect program, an important element of The District Detroit development. Through Community Connect, the Ilitch organization will ensure that this transformational project directly supports the Detroit community. The Ilitch organization is also conducting comprehensive workforce development and business participation outreach for The District Detroit's numerous construction projects to ensure that local residents and businesses participate in the construction of the new arena.

Dozens of Detroit resident skilled-trades apprentices have worked on the construction site; more than 40 Detroit resident apprentices are currently working on the construction site daily. To date, the total dollars awarded to Detroit-based or -headquartered businesses is more than $308 million - nearly 60 percent of the total value awarded and eclipsing the 30 percent goal for Detroit business participation by nearly double.

About Ilitch Holdings, Inc.

Ilitch Holdings, Inc. was established in 1999 to provide companies owned by Michael and/or Marian Ilitch with professional services. The Ilitch companies represent leading brands in the food, sports and entertainment industries and include Little Caesars Pizza, the Detroit Red Wings, Olympia Entertainment, Blue Line Foodservice Distribution, Champion Foods, Little Caesars Pizza Kit Fundraising Program and Olympia Development. Michael Ilitch owns the Detroit Tigers. Marian Ilitch owns MotorCity Casino Hotel.

About The District Detroit

The District Detroit will be made up of a dynamic mix of sports and entertainment venues, including six world-class theatres and three professional sports venues – home to the Detroit Red Wings, the Detroit Tigers and the Detroit Lions. The District Detroit will also feature retail and residential developments, offices and hotels that connect these venues into one contiguous, walkable area, where families, sports fans, entrepreneurs, job seekers, entertainment lovers and others who crave a vibrant urban setting can connect with each other and the city they love. A Michigan Made, Detroit Built project, The District Detroit continues to transform lives by bringing jobs and opportunity to people and businesses across the city, region and state. More information is available at districtdetroit.com

SOURCE Ilitch Holdings, Inc.