Youth Services
Why do we need the business community to be involved? Youth need the business leaders to be their role models and mentors to help teach and mold the youth of today into our future workforce. As a role model and mentor, business leaders have an opportunity to bridge the gaps and make a difference to help youth succeed. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that by 2010 we will have 167,754,000 skilled jobs to fill in the United States alone. Other studies from this well respected government agency forecast that we will only have 157,721,000 people in the workforce in 2010 to fill those jobs. As we interpret these numbers, we're facing a shortage of 10,033,000 workers.
“I would recommend this program to anyone who is looking for a quality employee and the opportunity to help a young person get ahead.” - Brett Oakes, President of Roto Salt, Inc.
Ways that the business leaders can help
- Paid Work Experience (Internships) — Eligible youth can be placed with a business and work in an entry level position based on the youth’s career interest. The participant is paid minimum wage by the service provider, who also covers all workman’s compensation costs and provides case management, any necessary supportive services and follow up services. The business provides training, supervision and maintains time sheets. The length of time a youth can remain in Paid Work Experience is agreed upon prior to starting work.
- Ongoing Counseling and Guidance — This function can be provided by the business, however the service provider is committed to providing this service so the youth will be successful in their employment and eventually self sufficient. If a participant is having difficulty on the job, staff would assist in working out the issues so that work is no longer affected.
The Finger Lakes Workforce Investment Board Youth Council sponsors programs and services specifically designed for economically and disadvantaged youth in the Finger Lakes region. The focus of these programs is to reinforce positive social skills through youth development activities. Also to connect the business community with youth as advisors and trainers to promote academic learning as it relates to the workplace.
“A few years ago I had no clue what I was going to do with my future. Speaking with you gave me hope of facing my fears and continuing my education by getting my GED and moving on to college. Without you and the One Stop, I wouldn’t have the confidence I have today nor would I be in the profession I am in. Everyone there helped to turn my life around, from helping me find jobs, to staying late to make sure I understood all the material and for always being the helping hand and the one to provide me with the guidance I needed. I owe you a special thanks for being the person who always believed in me and let me know the potential I have. You do amazing work and you are one person I will never forget.” - David, a former participant, is now a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
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