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Friday, March 29, 2024
HomeCommentaryLegislature CornerLegislature Corner: Sen Joseph’s Youth Summer Program Leads to Jobs

Legislature Corner: Sen Joseph’s Youth Summer Program Leads to Jobs

Sen. Carla Joseph at Senate meeting, (Legislature photo)

The office of Sen. Carla Joseph wrapped up its Youth Summer Employment Opportunity Program (Y.S.E.O.P.) with a small recognition ceremony earlier this month. Three of four private sector employer-partners offered permanent jobs to young people.

“The job opportunities that have been provided to participants of my summer program speak volumes to positive outcomes when we give young people the opportunity to be productively engaged,” Sen. Joseph said.

Youth, ages 16 – 24, participated in the program that ran from June 24 to Aug. 8. Joseph’s office budget funded the placement of young people to work at a government agency or non-profit organizations. There was also a successful 50/50 payment plan with private sector partners. Private sector partners paid half of the student’s salary while the senator’s office paid the other half. The senator said that the 50/50 private-sector partnership enabled her to increase job opportunities through her program.

While young people gained practical on-the-job experience, another objective of the program was to enhance professional learning and knowledge. In addition to job placement, young people participated in a one-day professional development workshop.

The workshop, facilitated by Sen. Joseph’s office, included resume building, interviewing techniques and budget planning sessions.

“I would like to thank all the young people that took part in my Youth Summer Employment Opportunity Program,” Joseph said. “I am also grateful to our employer-partners that hosted our young people. When preparation meets opportunity, doors open.”

Employment partners included V.I.Y.A., Umbra Anesthesia, the Hotel and Tourism Association, Catholic Charities, the Boys and Girls Club, the Virgin Islands Legislature and Sen. Joseph’s Office. The senator also extended thanks to her staff for coordinating a successful and fulfilling program for participating young people.

Office of Senator Carla Joseph

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