The Youth Center Career Support program follows a transitional youth employment model. These activities are prototypical of best practices that assist youth to acquire skills to enter the workforce or post-secondary education (including technical training). The program is experienced in 5 levels, although a client may not participate in all levels. Participants are first assessed for need and ability.

They complete 20 hours of basic career assessment and exploration; they build a portfolio to assist them with their employment search. Depending on the assessment, the participants receive anywhere from 50 to 200 hours of paid work experience and are evaluated by an employer. Ultimately, the program assists participants to obtain unsubsidized work or re-enter training and education.

Educational activities provide support and referrals to participants to improve their academic skills, leading to retention in high school or high school equivalency, certification, or other higher education, including technical training. Participants are assessed for needs along this program area and individual service plans are developed to guide their services towards progress. Participants are referred to local providers that match their need when services are not available on site.

Career Readiness

• Work Readiness Youth with little or no work experience will obtain necessary skills to successfully secure and maintain entry-level employment including unsubsidized work placement. Youth complete the 20 hours, over 10 sessions to complete a work readiness portfolio. Part of the portfolio is the idea of developing soft skills for employment, therefore showing up to the lessons on time and participation should be observed as critical to their success. The portfolio consists of a resume, cover letter, mock interview, sample job applications, and career inventory. Proof of completion is retained at WYC. WYC uses evidence-informed curriculum. The Massachusetts Career Information System is used to explore career interests and inform the type of employer to approach for a positive work experience.

• Internships (Paid and Unpaid) Internships provide an opportunity for participants to apply the concepts what they have learned in the work readiness course. Internships are short-term training opportunities to learn about work in a specific placement and a chance for the youth to understand their challenges at work, correct mistakes, adhere to workplace guidance and gain confidence for the next level and to obtain regular employment. Participants are placed in a work setting based on their needs and are matched with a employer supervisor. WYC staff meet with the employer and participant regularly to track progress and address concerns. WYC staff conduct site visits daily when a participant is working.

• Peer Leadership (Paid Internship) Interns can become peer leaders by having successful internship experience and having, through practice, gained or increased knowledge, skills and ability. Peer leaders must also demonstrate a commitment to participate in a longer-term internship (year-round). Peer leaders also participate in planning and assist in facilitating program cohorts listed above.