Some students have the smarts and the drive to get ahead in today’s competitive workplace, but might face barriers in continuing their education to get there.
But with the help of nearly $2.4 million in federal stimulus funds, more than 700 Cincinnati youth and young adults will get a chance to progress.
Hamilton County has identified five education and training service providers to teach valuable work skills to at-risk young people aged 14-to-24 this summer. They’ll be trained in the areas of green industries, health care, construction, education, technology, math, engineering, science and advanced manufacturing.
“By making strategic investments in our young people, particularly those that are facing the greatest obstacles, we secure the future of Hamilton County while preventing problems that cost us all,” said Commissioner David Pepper. “This program will foster a strong work ethic, the job skills and experience needed to be successful in life.”
Most of the programs will run from June through August. They’ll be led by Easter Seals Work Resource Center, Great Oaks Career Campuses, Jobs for Cincinnati Graduates, Arbor Employment and Training and the Urban League of Greater Cincinnati.
“Our approach with stimulus dollars is to use them smartly and strategically on our priority needs,” Pepper said. “Here, we are doing just that—creating jobs, and helping create a path to success for the young people who face the greatest obstacles to making it.”
Most students will not only get work training, but job placement with local employers. Some will also get computer and financial literacy training and student aid. They’ll be paid up to $10 an hour for their work during training, but could go on to make much more with their skills in the future.
Writer: Feoshia Henderson
Source: Bridget Doherty, Chief of Staff Commissioner David Pepper
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