Abstract
This Practical Advice Guide is one in a series of program and policy briefs published in 2013-2014 as part of our Center’s 30th Anniversary. Under the banner of “Enough is Known for Action: Ready to Employ, Educate, and Support Youth,” we present lessons from recent research and experience—most particularly, the Walmart summer youth employability initiatives—that can inform practice and policy today. The recent passage of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the dedication of the Federal Interagency Working Group on Youth Programs, support from the White House Domestic Policy Council, a growing urgency among the business community to hire a prepared workforce, a sharp focus on impact investing and other innovation in philanthropy, advances in education reform and
youth development practice, and emerging results-oriented partnerships across the country—all have created a perfect storm of opportunity for achieving unprecedented social, economic, and environmental outcomes for youth and communities. At the Center for Youth and Communities, we believe strongly that “Enough is Known for Action,” and that this particular time in history calls out for leadership, innovation and excellence in all we do. The practical advice offered in this program brief is intended to address
central, frequently asked questions from youth practitioners, program managers and worksite supervisors in business and public sector work places: How do we make young peoples’ work experience meaningful? What are critical design elements to consider, especially for young people whose supports and opportunities have been few?