Carly Thompson updates on Newcastle County's Youth Workforce Development Program progress

New Castle County's Community Services Committee meeting on May 27, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in the Youth Workforce Development Program, which aims to empower socially and economically disadvantaged youth through valuable employment experiences. Acting Division Manager Carly Thompson presented an overview of the program, which includes both a Summer Youth Employment Program and a School Year Employment Program, providing essential job opportunities that contribute to the personal and professional growth of participants.

The summer program operates during school breaks, while the academic year program aligns with the school calendar, offering reduced hours to accommodate students' schedules. Participants earn the state minimum wage of $15 per hour, with funding support from the County Council ensuring the program's viability.

Thompson emphasized the importance of partnerships, noting that over 60 worksite partners from various sectors, including nonprofit and government entities, are involved in providing meaningful job opportunities. Notably, the County government continues to play a vital role by offering positions in diverse fields such as recreation, libraries, and food services.

A highlight of the meeting was the success of the 1,000 Kids Coding Initiative, supported by the American Rescue Plan Act. Youth participants showcased their skills in hackathons, with one team, Solution Station, winning a $50,000 award to develop their pest identifier application, Pest Patrol. This achievement underscores the program's commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among young people.

The meeting also addressed challenges, including a significant reduction in funding from the Department of Labor, which decreased by 42% for the upcoming fiscal year. Despite this setback, New Castle County's share of available funds increased from 18% to 30%, reflecting recognition of the program's quality.

As the current program period approaches its conclusion in mid-June 2025, the committee remains focused on enhancing career opportunities and instilling community pride among youth participants. The ongoing efforts to diversify job placements and engage more employers signal a proactive approach to workforce development in New Castle County, ensuring that young residents are equipped with the skills and experiences necessary for future success.