Youth Workforce Program

As young people finish their high school education and begin thinking about their future, many realize that they lack the skills employers desire. Without skills, youth remain stuck in low paying jobs with very little hope for advancement. The Youth Workforce Program is designed to assist young people from Clark and Cowlitz Counties as they begin employment or complete their secondary or post-secondary education.

The Youth Workforce Program's Workforce Development Specialists work closely with youth to develop an individual plan, taking into account the youth's interests, skills and motivation. Most youth remain in the program for 9 to 18 months, gaining additional education through classes, academic support for secondary or post secondary education or training, and real world work experience. Further, the youth gains exposure to multiple careers, communities, businesses, opportunities for leadership development and gains a greater understanding of his/her skills and abilities.