The Department of Labor is soliciting employers and community organizations that are interested in participating in this year’s Summer Youth Work Experience Program through the department. Participating worksite hosts are required to provide a six-week work experience and job training activities for youths, ages 16-24, during the summer months, according to a press release issued Thursday by the V.I. Department of Labor.
“This year more than ever, we are looking forward to the private sector stepping up and subsidizing our limited summer job opportunities. We are partners in providing work experience and, consequently, the development of our future workforce. We know that this opportunity not only keeps money in the pockets of our young people but also provides valuable experience and keeps them productive throughout the summer,” said Commissioner of Labor Albert Bryan Jr.
Additionally, service providers and organizations interested in providing life skills and career exploration activities for youths ages 14-15 are encouraged to submit a program proposal application. Mini-grants of up to $4,500 are available for qualified providers. Programs should run for no more than four weeks. Interested individuals can obtain a Request for Summer Youth Work Experience Program Participation and Summer Youth Workshop Application by contacting DOL offices on St. Thomas at 776-3700 or 773-1994 on St. Croix, or by visiting http://www.vidol.gov/form_management.php.
Applications can also be picked up at DOL’s St. Thomas and St. Croix locations. For more information, contact Amelia Christian on St. Croix at 773-1994 ext. 2140 (stxsywep@vidol.gov) or Shenika Sebastien on St. Thomas at 776-3700 ext. 2080 (sttjsywep@vidol.gov).
