The Importance Pro-Vision Academy's Job Enterprise Program

For most adults having a job is a necessity that they became prepared for while still in high school. During those formidable years many adults were able to find a summer job or part-time work, but today that doesn’t seem to be the case. A recent Brookings Institute study found that just 26% of 16-19 year olds were employed in 2011, which is the lowest rate in post-WWII history.

Even more concerning is the fact that the trends continue into early adulthood. The Great Recession was a major catalyst that appears to still be affecting teen workers even as unemployment rates drop for older adults. Experts say that this lack of work experience may have lasting repercussions.

The Importance of Working While You’re a Teen

A study released by the Congressional Research Service showed that the government recognizes there is a troubling decline in teen employment and that steps need to be taken to ensure teens have the opportunity to gain experience in the workforce. For teens the benefit of having a job goes well beyond a paycheck and include:

• They learn about financial management, taxes, etc.
• It gives them a since of pride and independence.
• Prepares teens for entering the workforce as an adult.
• A job can be listed on a college application or essay. Admission directors say a summer job can show that the student is a hard worker, takes initiative and doesn’t just switch off during their summer break.
• Provides them with skills that can be used later in their careers.
• Helps put teens on the path towards a long-term career.
• Work as a teen helps to lower the unemployment rate.
• Decreases the likelihood of dropping out of high school.
• Students that regularly work have been shown to score higher on standardized tests.

A job can do so much for teens that it’s no surprise the federal government, state governments and local entities are now turning their attention towards getting high school students working again. One key way of accomplishing that goal is through programs like Pro-Vision’s Job Enterprise Program.

The Job Enterprise Program at Pro-Vision 

Many experts are now indicating that access to employment and workforce development programs is key to helping teens overcome the unemployment hurdle. This is particularly true for teens that are in city high schools, low-income areas as well as minorities, which appear to be affected the most by unemployment.

Local youth in Sunnyside have the unique opportunity of participating in just such a program. For years the Job Enterprise Program has been helping to prepare youth for the workforce. Pro-Vision has taken on the task of providing students with real world opportunities, training and mentorship that has proven to be a game-changer for countless participants. However, the young men must first take part in the Manhood Development Program before they can become eligible to participate in the Job Enterprise Program.

Working with corporate partners and volunteers, Pro-Vision has created a comprehensive, productive program that helps the young people make the transition into adulthood and a career. The corporate partners provide both white collar and blue collar summer jobs for Pro-Vision participants that are 16-19 years old. The jobs are Monday through Thursday with extensive training programs on Friday. During the training sessions mentors discuss related topics such as business etiquette and financial management.

Pro-Vision  realized long before the Great Recession that a job training program could be extremely rewarding for their young people. No matter what is happening in the overall economy, teens at Pro-Vision can find the means for meaningful work, personal empowerment and make a positive community impact through the Job Enterprise Program.

Image Source: flickr.com/photos/nasa_goddard/9556369482

Original Source: http://www.provision-inc.org/extra-curricular/importance-pro-vision-academys-job-enterprise-program/