YouthWorks

YouthWorks is a state-funded Commonwealth Corporation career readiness program for teens and young adults ages 14-25. Through paid training and work experience at local business and organizations, participants build and develop the skills essential for pursuing their career goals. All YouthWorks program elements and services are free to all eligible and enrolled participants.

Program Elements and Services:

  • Paid career readiness training and focused work experiences in diverse industries
  • Free credentialed courses
  • Free job coaching and interview support
  • Mentoring from career counselors and industry experts
  • in-person, virtual, and hybrid learning opportunities
  • Project-based learning and service learning experiences
  • Networking opportunities and job search support
  • Leadership development training and opportunities

Eligibility:

To be eligible for our YouthWorks Program, an applicant must:

  • be 14-25 years old at time of enrollment (Summer Program for 16-22 year-olds)
  • Reside in Franklin County, Hampshire County, or the North Quabbin
  • Have a family income under 200% of the Federal Poverty Level
  • Face one of the following risk factors identified by the Commonwealth Corporation:
    • Identify as LGBTQ+
    • Be a Person of Color
    • Come from a single income household
    • Currently experiencing housing insecurity
    • Identify as having a disability
    • Have had or are currently involved with the criminal justice system
    • Currently in or aged-out of the foster care system
    • Be a school stop-out
    • Be the child of a single parent
    • Have limited English language fluency
    • Be a parent

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I am eligible for YouthWorks?

If you do not know whether or not you're eligible, please submit your application. Once received we will follow up with you to confirm eligibility.

How do I know if my family income is under 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)?

A participant must have a gross family income that does not exceed the annual equivalent of 200% of the Federal poverty guidelines. In 2025, 200% of the FPL Guidelines for annual income are as follows:

  • Family of 1: $31,300
  • Family of 2: $42,300
  • Family of 3: $53,300
  • Family of 4: $64,300
  • Family of 5: $75,300
  • Family of 6: $86,300
  • Family of 7: $97,300
  • Family of 8: $108,300

For each additional family member beyond 8, add $11,000.

How many hours can I expect to work?

As every participant and placement is unique, hours will be determined on a case by case basis. For planning purposes, during the summer program you can expect an average of 20 hours per week between career readiness training and your worksite placement.

YouthWorks has ultimately guided me to my dream career, through years of exploration. My counselors have helped me through all logistical challenges, and even have connected me with the proper support system to be successful in the industry I plan to pursue.

Brooke V.
High School Graduate

Thanks to the guidance of my YouthWorks Career Counselor, I've been developing my skills and embracing challenges, while also learning the importance of asking for help when needed. Throughout my time in YouthWorks, I've gained valuable experience in creating lesson plans, assisting students, and even constructing two benches for my school.

Ellie C.
High School Senior

YouthWorks has also provided me with valuable hands-on experience. By working in retail at a bookstore, I have developed strong customer service skills. Additional, the program has helped me prepare for my future by allowing me to gain diverse job skills through real-world work experiences.

Peyton H.
High School Senior

One of the most impactful things I've learned through YouthWorks is financial literacy. Thanks to my YouthWorks counselor, I've not only developed a professional resume but also saved up enough money to buy my first car! This milestone has given me a sense of independence and set me up for future success.

Lux
High School Graduate

I have a strong passion for the culinary field, particiularly in baking and creative food preparation. Youth Works has provided me with invaluable opportunities to develop essential skills, such as crafting resumes, preparing for interviews, and gaining workplace experience.

Alissa S.
High School Junior

Apply/ Request Information/ Contact

Interested in applying for the Summer 2025 YouthWorks Program?
apply now

If you are a business interested in supporting young adults in our communities by providing a work experience internship please contact the Young Adult Programs Manager, Zach Podhorzer, (email) or (413) 774-4361 x 321