YouthforIowa.org Site Launched - Promotes Summer Employment Program and Opportunities

DES MOINES – Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) officially launches the www.youthforiowa.org Web site to promote the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) youth summer job program. The state-wide summer employment program provides Iowa youth with an opportunity to develop the essential skills needed for successful employment.

“As Iowa’s economy and job opportunities continue to evolve, it’s important that our youth develop the necessary skills to succeed in the new opportunities,” stated Iowa Workforce Development Director, Elisabeth Buck.

The summer youth program is open to individuals 14-24, who are considered low-income, and meet one of the following points:

• Deficient in basic literacy skills
• High school drop-out
• Homeless, runaway or foster child
• Pregnant or parenting
• An ex-offender
• An individual requiring additional assistance to complete an educational program or to secure and hold employment.

Additionally, if the individual is eligible, he must register with the selective service and the qualifying youth participant must be a US citizen, national or legal immigrant.

Spaces will fill up quickly throughout the state, and Iowa youth interested in the program may register online or contact their local site directly.

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