DONATE NOW VOLUNTEER Work Preparation Knowledge and practical experience of workplace fundamentals is essential. The Center of Labor Market Studies suggests the so-called “soft skills” are often the most important, yet sadly, youth do not acquire them prior to seeking employment. Income level is associated with a number of socio-economic indicators including positive health outcomes. Work preparation helps develop a framework for being industrious and productive in future employment as well as supports one’s ability to lead a healthy life. Work Readiness activities begin with 20 hours of basic career awareness and workplace fundamentals. Youth are taught the basic expectations around attendance, behavior, and cooperation at work. From there, they build a portfolio of essential tools necessary for getting a job. In group and one-on-one sessions, the youth create a resume, cover letter, and a “thank you” letter, among other tools. They also participate in online job search and mock interviews. Once a portfolio is successfully established, they go on real interviews with one or several employer partners. Work place experience is gained through internships where youth practice their newly acquired knowledge and apply and sharpen their skills in a real work environment. Internships last up to 80 hours, and some are subsidized, depending on the funding source. The staff review each youth in an internship using the Massachusetts Work-based Learning Plan, a tool used to measure workplace skills. Based on their need, youth are supported to obtain non-subsidized work or enter post-secondary education. WYC Worcester Youth Center has been serving young people ages 14 to 24 since 1994. Our mission is to provide a safe place where young people can build lasting, positive changes in their lives. Author archive August 24, 2020 Information Previous post Next post KEEP IN TOUCH Address: 326 Chandler St. Worcester, MA 01602 Email: info@worcesteryouthcenter.org Phone: 508-791-4702 Fax: 508-791-3613 Worcester Youth Center Inc. is a tax-exempt, registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible. CONNECT WITH US KEY CATEGORIES News Featured RECENT ARTICLES ‘Expressing themselves’ T&G article details HopeVid-2020 goals Teen Circle’s pandemic-safety jam draws applause from Boston media Virtual programs keep learning, connections alive amid COVID-19 © 2021 WORCESTER YOUTH CENTER TO TOP ↑