Youthworks Summer Jobs Program

Worcester’s “YouthWorks Summer Jobs Program” was established in May of 2005, with a $167,000 grant from the state’s Commonwealth Corporation – directed to the City, and developed through Worcester Community Action Council, Inc. to create summer jobs for low-income, inner city youth between the ages of 14 and 21. With a grant- required “20% match” developed from private funding, 102 paid summer jobs were created. There were 18 separate work sites, and the youth were paid $7/hr.

In May of 2006, Commonwealth Corporation again directed “YouthWorks” money to Worcester. The amount of the grant was increased to $296,000, and WCAC, in collaboration with many public and private organizations, including the Worcester Public Schools, was able to develop 304 paid summer jobs. Additionally, $150,000 in private donations was directed through WCAC, which resulted in another 100 paid summer jobs. There were 53 separate work sites, and the youth were paid $6.75/hr.

Student Eligibility

In order to secure a job in the “YouthWorks” program:

• Applicants must reside in the City of Worcester;
  
• Applicants must be between the ages of 14 and 21;
  
• Applicants must fit the State mandated "low-income / at-risk" criteria;
  
• Applicants must provide a signed copy of their SS card;
  
• Applicants must complete the application process, including pre-employment training;
  
• Applicants must submit to a CORI check/drug test, where required.

Employer Criteria

In order to participate in the “YouthWorks” program:

• Employers shall provide general descriptions for quality jobs;
  
• Employers shall establish hours of work within the program guidelines;
  
• Employers shall provide daily supervision, and monitor attendance;
  
• Employers shall strictly adhere to all Safety and Child labor Laws;
  
• Employers shall work closely with WCAC to ensure a successful work experience;
  
• Employers shall immediately notify WCAC of any problematic situations.

WCAC is responsible for all phases of the “YouthWorks” program: job development and placement, recruitment and eligibility, pre-employment training, site monitoring and safety adherence, distribution of a weekly payroll, and constant communication with all interested parties. WCAC works closely with all State and Local Representatives to secure additional youth employment funds, as well as with many of our public and private sector employers to increase job availability for our youth.