YouthWorks Program Creates Baltimore Jobs
This summer, Baltimore City’s YouthWorks program was able to provide many youths with a first-hand look at what a Baltimore job might be like.
The program places well-trained, multi-skilled high school and college students into a six week summer employment program with a partnering business, government or organization.
While the program benefits youth by allowing them to explore careers and better understand the value of education, it also enriches businesses by giving them access to a talented and energetic labor pool of motivated workers.
This year marks the largest participation rate since the program’s inception, with more than 6,500 youths placed in summer jobs in Baltimore. Overall, 29 state agencies employed 398 students for the summer, an investment of about $300,000.
Governor Martin O’Malley’s administration has invested more than $3.5 million in youth summer employment programs, including 100 youth who are employed by the Department of Natural Resources‘ Maryland Conservation Corps.
Due to the current success of the program, O’Malley continues to urge other state businesses, governments and organizations to hire youth next summer, according to a press release from the State of Maryland.
“When a young person is invested in a summer job, it not only provides an opportunity to earn a little extra money, but it also raises the confidence and sense of accomplishment for that young person,” O’Malley noted. “This contributes to smarter students, safer neighborhoods, and a highly skilled and prepared workforce for the future. Every Maryland employer has an obligation to participate similarly toward the future of our young citizens.”
YouthWorks participants are required to complete a pre-employment training seminar that requires commitment and a positive attitude. Many YouthWorks participants are already focused on building their career portfolios in school and have
experienced internships, job shadowing, and community service.
A recent employer evaluation of the program showed 42 percent of employers thought the program was outstanding, 30 percent thought it was good, 23 percent thought it was satisfactory and 5 percent were unsatisfied with the program.