Youth Employment and Preparation Program 2012

About the Program

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

Year: 2013

The County of San Bernardino, Department of Workforce Development (WDD) has administered and operated youth employment and training programs for the County of San Bernardino for over 20 years. As one of the integral departments within the Economic Development Agency, WDD strives to maximize the standard of living of all county residents through workforce development activities.During the summer of 2012, WDD entered into an agreement with the county Department of Behavioral Health to administer a Youth Employment and Preparation Program (YEPP). YEPP provided; Ø Training and employment services, Ø Career guidance, Ø Skill assessments, Ø Case management, Ø Supportive services, and Ø Classroom and on the job training (OJT) components.Three hundred fourteen (314) diverse youth ages 18 – 25 benefited from these services. Participating youth were Transitionally Aged Youth (TAY) and were “system involved” including; Foster Care, Wards of the Court, Probationers, and/or receiving Behavioral Health services. The overall program goals were to assist eligible Youth with finding and retaining work, improving work skills, becoming self-sufficient, and contributing to the economic stability of San Bernardino County. As a result of these activities, the youth who participated have reported that their self-esteem and outlook for future success has risen. These emotional/behavioral factors met the goals of DBH.