Bridges to the Future

WHO:

Now recruiting youth who

  • Are committed to graduating from high school
  • Want support in developing a post-high school career plan
  • Will be 16 by June 15th
  • Will be a sophomore or junior in the 2011-2012 school year
  • Demonstrate minimum employability and academic skills
  • Meet program eligibility

WHAT:

PA CareerLink® Youth Workforce Specialists will guide you through a series of activities and experiences to help you

  • Learn about yourself, your interests and your skills
  • Gain volunteer and work experience
  • Make connections between the classroom and careers
  • Create a portfolio linked to your post-high school goal: college/training, employment or military
  • Develop skills to obtain a job, keep a job and compete in today’s economy.

WHEN:

Youth will participate in Bridges to the Future for up to 2 years to prepare you for life after high school. The following activities and experiences will build on each other:

  • Summer work experience before your junior year
  • Quarterly meetings and activities with your PA CareerLink® Workforce Specialist throughout your junior year
  • Summer work experience, internship or your own job before your senior year
  • Monthly meetings and activities with your PA CareerLink® Workforce Specialist throughout your senior year
  • Placement assistance after high school graduation
  • Up to 1 year of follow up to make your transition successful

WHERE:

Most activities will take place at your school during a time that works best with your schedule. Other activities and experiences may occur at your local PA CareerLink® office or other location.

 WHY:

Bridges to the Future offers the following benefits

  • A better understanding of who you are in relationship to career opportunities
  • Encouragement to successfully complete high school
  • An action plan to enter college/ training, employment or military after high school
  • Tools and resources to use on a lifelong career journey
  • Supplement services offered by school districts, social service agencies or other partners with a focus on WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT.

HOW:

To refer youth or learn more about the program, contact your local PA CareerLink®.