Boston receives $4.1M for youth employment program supporting 1000 at-risk young people

On April 24, 2025, Boston City officials convened to discuss the city's subsidized youth employment program, aimed at supporting at-risk and low-income youth aged 14 to 25. This initiative, funded entirely by the state, is part of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development's budget and is managed by the Commonwealth Corporation, a quasi-governmental agency responsible for setting policies and priorities for the program.

This year, Boston has been awarded $4,149,200 to serve over a thousand young people through various community partnerships. The funding will primarily support youth wages and essential services, ensuring that participants gain valuable skills and experiences that will aid their career and educational journeys. The program emphasizes inclusivity, particularly for young people with disabilities, foster youth, and those experiencing homelessness.

The meeting highlighted the collaborative nature of the program, with seven organizations and city departments working together to administer the funding. Notable partnerships include a career exploration program at Wentworth Institute of Technology, which provides hands-on learning opportunities for students through YouthBuild Boston. This collaboration allows participants to engage with industry professionals while developing both technical and soft skills.

Councilor Flynn praised the program for its dual focus on income generation and personal development, emphasizing the importance of leadership and accountability for young participants. The meeting also touched on the specific initiatives aimed at supporting students with disabilities, including placements at the Horace Mann School for the Deaf.

As the summer approaches, city officials expressed optimism about the program's potential to provide meaningful workforce experiences for Boston's youth. The integration of various funding sources and community resources aims to create a comprehensive support system that not only addresses immediate employment needs but also fosters long-term career development for young people in the city.