YouthWorks

Get the experience you need to find and keep a job.

YouthWorks

YouthWorks is a state-funded youth employment program that helps teens and young adults get the skills and experience needed to find and keep jobs. Participants take part in paid short-term work placements during the summer and/or school year at public private and nonprofit worksites.

Participants also receive training in core soft skills so they can practice professional behaviors and learn how to relate to supervisors and co-workers at their worksites. They learn how to take the next steps in their education and career pathways. All YouthWorks programs use the Signal Success curriculum to help young adults learn and practice the skills that matter at work, at school, and in life.

Signal Success is a comprehensive curriculum designed and tested by education and workforce development partners to help young people develop essential skills for future success. Students receive systematic instruction in core soft skills while engaging in meaningful future planning.

Learn how to show initiative at work
Develop strong communication and collaboration skills
Build habits that support dependability
Navigate online applications and interviews

Explore - Engage - Experience - Expand

Find out more about the available YouthWorks programs.

Explore

14-15 Year Old

This cohort focuses on exploring a project-based learning opportunity and professional development. Participants will gain soft skills and work on a community-based project while learning such topics and communication and goal setting. The programs aims to prepare for a more engaged experience.

To Explore Contact:

Victoria Fernandes

Engage

16-17 Year Old

This group engages in early career experiences. Participants spend 40-300 hours at a worksite related to their goals and interests. They will learn workplace skills applicable to everyday lives, including affective communication, teamwork, and gaining necessary soft and hard skills. Participants will experience work cultures and explore career paths.

To Engage Contact:

Amanda Chenier

Experience

18-20 Year Old

This training pathway is a training and support experience program. Participants will receive mentorship from professionals in their field of interest. By completing this experience, participants gain a deeper understanding of the workplace, develop leadership skills, work effectively in teams, acquire industry-specific skills, and have a clear path in mind. They also obtain CPR, First Aid, and AED certification.

To Experience Contact:

Amanda Chenier

Expand

22-25 Year Old

This career and career management program expands work readiness training, technical skills, and CPR/First Aid/AED certification. Participants have the opportunity to be placed in full-time or part-time positions in various fields. The program focuses on developing self-advocacy and marketability in the workforce. upon completion, participants should have improved leadership skills, interview practice, and a strong personal brand.

To Expand Contact:

Meghan Burke

Find Below Groups that are Eligible for Youthworks Programs

Low income
Free or Reduced Lunch
In the 20 percent vulnerable youth category
Homeless
Foster youth
Poor academics – either MCAS Level 1 or 2 OR at least one year behind grade level in credits
Child of a single working parent
Limited English skills

Teen parent
Juvenile arrest, court-involved, gang-involved, probation
Has a physical disability
Student on an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan
Former foster youth who has aged out
DYS committed
DCF – CRA (formerly called CHIN) or DCF involved

Get Started On Your Career Success Today.

Securing a job isn’t just about financial stability, it’s also about empowering you to live life on your terms – in the career of your dreams.

At Youth Connections we are committed to helping you become a self-confident young adult through our comprehensive support services. Whether you’re exploring career opportunities, seeking financial aid, or in need of mentorship, our team is here to help you succeed.

Take the first step towards a rewarding and fulfilling career path by getting in touch with us.