Youth Career Center

About the Program

Category: Personnel Management, Employment and Training (Best in Category)

Year: 2009

Maricopa County’s Human Services Department, Workforce Development Division has been responsible for delivering services to Maricopa County’s at-risk youth ages 14 to 21 for over 33 years. Maricopa County, working under the Workforce Investment Act Program and the Workforce Connections Board, began operating an innovative Youth Career Center within it West Valley One Stop Career Center in 2007 to assist the youth of Maricopa County in obtaining and researching employment and training opportunities. Designed towards the youth demographic, the Center features a separate entrance, artwork, and design which provide youth customers with a sense of acceptance and place. The Youth Center provides several computers and an environment where participants can network, read, and engage technology. The Center also offers a variety of youth programs for participants to research employment prospects or postsecondary education classes or college preparatory classes. A Career Guidance Specialist conducts outreach and provides employers, schools, and community-based organizations with information about the Youth Center and the resources that are available for youth. Funding of the Youth Center is provided through Workforce Investment Act dollars.