GRAND RAPIDS, MI – A six-week summer program is expanding to provide career preparation to more West Michigan youth.
The West Michigan Works! Ascend Youth Program plans to bring back its Summer Youth Career Readiness Program bringing real-world experience and career exploration to youth ages 14-24 in Barry, Ionia, Kent, Montcalm, Muskegon and Ottawa counties.
This year’s program runs from June 23-Aug. 1. Registration is open through May 5 at westmiworks.org. Due to previous high demand, Ascend has increased the program’s enrollment cap to just over 140, which is nearly double the 76 youth accepted last year.
The program is structured to include a 20-hour weekly commitment from participants, including in-person work and virtual WorkREADY training during the program’s first week. Participants will be compensated $14 per hour for their time in the program.
“Summer Youth Career Readiness Program lays a strong foundation for future careers by combining paid, real-world work experience with essential skills training,” Chad Patton, director of development and innovation for West Michigan Works!, said in a statement.
“By expanding access across counties, we’re making sure more youth can explore career paths and gain the support they need to succeed.”
Online training will include career exploration, problem-solving in the workplace and soft skills training. Ascend Youth Services will assist participants who do not have reliable internet access.
Work experience through the Summer Youth Career Readiness Program spans multiple industries, and participants will be placed with an employer that best matches their skills and interests.
Chasity Fedon participated in last summer’s Youth Career Readiness Program. After a successful six-week work experience, she was hired at Ionia Smoothie Company.
“I was incredibly overwhelmed when trying to find a first job, because I had no idea where to start or what to expect,” Fedon said. “However, that stress dwindled throughout the process of completing the program. I learned a lot about proper workplace habits that I still use in my everyday life.
“Taking part in this program was one of the best decisions I could have made, and I hope others will participate in it as well.”
Applicants must complete all necessary paperwork and meet eligibility requirements to be accepted into the program and attend the virtual orientation. Parents and guardians are invited to participate in a dedicated orientation night in June.
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