Youth Opportunity Program

About the Program

Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)

Year: 2016

Public Works, in collaboration with County of Los Angeles departments and non-county organizations, developed and launched the Youth Opportunity Program pilot in July, 2013. The program goal is to improve employment opportunities for high-risk youth and enable them to become contributing members of their local communities. As young people aged 17½ to 19 leave the Probation system, the program provides job readiness and on-the-job training through a structured 18-month intensive program that includes mentoring, case management, academic and mental health support, paid internships, preparation to compete for a broad range of permanent entry-level positions within the County and outside agencies, and/or preparation to further their education.