The job preparation skills taught in the program include creating resumés, interview skills, proper business attire and conduct, employer expectations and money management skills. The three-day workshops also address what to expect at the worksite, quality customer services, safety, sexual harassment, telephone courtesy, financial literacy, professional attire and payroll process. More than 200 county youth have already completed training.
According to Executive Director Bob Lanter, “Summer is a critical time for youth to start their work regime. Unfortunately, the current economic condition has drastically affected this opportunity for our youth. The ARRA funds have provided a way to counteract the employment deficiency while providing a foundation for an economic upsurge.”
The summer program is funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Approximately $2.5 million of the WDBCCC’s ARRA funds will go toward the wages of those participating in the program. Each participant will be paid $8.25 per hour and work approximately 120 hours during the course of the summer.
Employment placement was determined by interest and aptitude assessment. The jobs will allow youth to apply lessons learned during skills training. A diverse mixture of industries such as construction, green jobs, health care, community outreach and local government will employ a large portion of the youth. Private businesses, county departments, community organizations and career counselors from the Workforce Development Board will mentor youth.
For a list of businesses participating in the program, e-mail beth@dmpublicrelations.com.
About the Contra Costa Workforce Investment Board
The Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County is a 37-member business-led public body appointed by the Board of Supervisors and is responsible for workforce development policy in the county. Its mission is to promote a workforce development system that responds to the needs of the business community, job seekers, workers and youth.
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