STL Youth Jobs launched the first day of its 2016 summer work program Wednesday, while also announcing it has received a financial boost to fund more positions.
The program, which is run through a collaboration between the city and civic partners, offers paid summer positions and training opportunities for young St. Louisans, ages 16 to 24.
The goal is to help young people find "meaningful employment to reduce crime, increase academic success and build the skills needed" for a career, according to a press release.
Recently, JP Morgan Chase donated an additional $150,000, upping its total commitment to $350,000. That money will fund 45 more jobs specifically in health care and IT. Participants will work in positions at three campuses within the SSM Health System and with the local technology project Computer Village.
STL Youth Jobs said in its release that 450 young people are participating this summer. But the program hopes to employ 500 individuals and is looking for additional funding from individuals and corporations. It costs $2,500 to fund one position in the program, according to its website.
Since it started in 2013, STL Youth Jobs said 1,400 youth have received a paid position, mentoring, and career and financial literacy training.
