Stimulus money gives local teens real-world experience
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WEB EXCLUSIVE: Teenagers across Austin are learning valuable job skills, while making a little money.
Thirty local businesses have partnered with Workforce Solutions to put 600 at-risk youth to work. The program offers training and work opportunities for youth between the ages of 16 to 24.
The program allows working interns to have some real-world experience, and, at the same time, exposing them to potential full-time employers.
Employers watching over the program believe keeping the young adults busy during the summer months keeps them from getting into trouble.
"Without this program, these students or youth could be just hanging out in the streets, hanging out at home, really not contributing to our community," Goodwill Industries of Central Texas Marketing Director Suzanha Pena said.
"I mean it's fun, it's a good way to learn and it's good job experience," Kendrick Jackson said.
The 17-year-old said working during the summer months is better than sitting at home.
The program is expected to last for two years, pumping as much as $1 million into the local economy.
For more information, visit AustinGoodwill.org or WFSCapitalArea.com.