By Mirian Maurizaca

Youthworks is a program for teens that gives them a chance to work during summer and get paid. This program began in 1973. They provide a 5-week job opportunity, from July 8th to August 22nd. Young people between the ages of 16 and 21 are eligible for the program. The application opens every year in January and ends in March. 

“The purpose of YouthWorks is to provide students with hands-on experience in different careers.”, explained Mr. Córdoba, a Post-Secondary Advisor at Patterson.

“Students have the ability to fill out a survey in the registration form that allows them to express which pathways they are currently enrolled in and what careers they are interested in. The Mayor’s Office of Employment Development then uses the information from the registration form to match students with a job site that matches the student interest.”

“It is a way to earn money for fun, to help your household or start a savings account. Gain meaningful work experience to build your resume and learn your likes and dislikes for future employment,” added Ms. Reid, the Community School Coordinator at Patterson.

Students can apply by visiting this link: https://youthworks.oedworks.com/. Students can apply any time before March 22nd-the sooner, the better. 

There are many organizations and companies that hire through Youthworks.

“Students focusing on nursing can work at Johns Hopkins Bayview, while other students who may need to catch up on graduation requirements can attend summer school through YouthWorks.” said Mr. Córdoba.

“Other job sites include the City of Baltimore government and businesses in the private sector. Most of the time, students are required to help out in the daily needs of the business or entity. In every case, students are trained to perform any duty that is asked of them.”

Ms. Reid encourages all students to apply for YouthWorks. “Everyone should apply from age 14, because if you don’t, you won’t have the opportunity to try it out”.

However, Mr. Córdoba pointed out that students do need to have a Social Security number to apply. Seniors who are interested in YouthWorks and do not have a social security number should reach out to Mr. Córdoba to explore other opportunities.

Youthworks is helpful in many ways: it helps students get experience and find out what they like while also earning money. Don’t miss out on this opportunity–apply before the deadline!