Youth Workforce Development Program (YWDP) helps to provide educational planning and employment services to low income youths between the ages of 17 and 21. The program not only helps to place youth in jobs, it also provides educational support and guidance for those looking to finish high school or obtain their GED. Run in conjunction with Capital Area Michigan Works! (CAMW), the YWDP strives to prepare youth to obtain and maintain employment, and to give them the educational background they will need to be successful in the workforce. This is done through services such as:
The program also assists youth in finding internships and jobs with area businesses. In fact, in the summer of 2009, Gateway participated in CAMW's Summer Job Program, providing over 100 youth with a summer job. Youth were paid by Gateway and assigned to participating local area businesses for the duration of the summer. In addition, youth also received classroom training, instruction in workplace etiquette, training in interviewing techniques, and case management services. 
Who is eligible for the Youth Workforce Development Program?
Informational Meetings are held every Thursday at 4pm at Capital Area Michigan Works. Information meetings will cover program eligibility, expectations and services, and other questions related to the program. If you are interested in learning more about the YWDP, please contact Employment Case Manager Jennifer Cousineau at jcousineau@camw.net or by calling (517) 708-4007. Capital Area Michigan Works is located at: 2110 S. Cedar St. Lansing, MI 48910 Take CATA bus #5 south from the Capitol to point B on the route map
How Can I Help??? 
Tutors and Interns to assist participants in GED preparation are always needed by the YWDP. Tutors are responsible for assisting participants in the classroom with academic support to earn their GED certificates. Tutors are also responsible for assisting the Education Specialist with GED preparation and remediation. Tutors help youth gain various soft skills to ensure their success upon exit. Duties may also include grading, correcting and developing GED related assignments for students.
Tutors need to be available for 3-6 hours per week, from 9am-12pm or 1pm-4pm. Applicants must have experience teaching or leading in a classroom setting, the ability to follow directions and build positive relationships with youth, and experience with youth with different learning abilities and comprehension skills. A high school diploma or GED is also required, and a college degree or some college experience is preferred. Tutoring is a great way to give back to your community, and can be valuable experience for anyone interested in the field of education or social work. If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Gateway's Education Specialist Ruben Watson at rwatson@gatewayservices.org or call (517) 708-4006 for more information. |
