Baltimore’s YouthWorks program launches its 51st year, offering 10,000 jobs to local youth

BALTIMORE, MD (WBFF) — The 51st year of YouthWorks kicks off today with over 10,000 jobs offered.

Thousands of YouthWorkers are expected to report for their first day of work today in Baltimore City.

For the past five decades, the YouthWorks program has placed teens and young adults, ages 14 to 21, in summer employment opportunities with private, nonprofit, city, state and government employers. Participants work in a variety of industries and gain career-specific skills over a five week summer session.

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“As we kickoff another year of Youthworks, I’m reminded of the life changing impact that this program has had on Baltimore’s young people for more than half a century,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott.

I’m excited for each of these young Baltimoreans to take on a rewarding job this summer, earn some money, and potentially explore their future career options. I’m wishing each of them the best and extend my gratitude to every single business and organization that has taken on these young workers this summer.

This summer, over 10,000 Baltimore City youth were offered jobs at more than 750 employers, representing a significant increase in program participants. In 2023, 7,890 youth were offered summer employment across nearly 600 employers. Summer employers include the Orioles, HeartSmiles, Code in the Schools, and hundreds more.

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“YouthWorks offers the next generation an opportunity to forge meaningful connections and gain critical workforce skills needed for their futures. Thank you to all of the families, youth, funders and employer partners who have made this summer possible. We are incredibly excited to continue investing in our young people.” said MacKenzie Garvin, Director of the Baltimore City Mayor’s Office of Employment Development.

To learn more about the YouthWorks program, go to youthworks.oedworks.com