Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Workforce Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Stockton accepts expanded youth Job Corps funding, plans summer hires and training
Summary
The council approved acceptance of Job Corps / youth workforce funding that expands the summer program; staff said the program will reach thousands of youth (citywide figure noted at $3.6M), pay participants up to $23/hour, and provide training and laptops; council approved unanimously.
The Stockton City Council unanimously approved acceptance of expanded youth workforce funding during its May 13 meeting, authorizing the city to run and expand summer Job Corps placements and related youth employment programming.
Dale Applewhite, the program manager coordinating the city’s YES (youth employment) program, explained the proposed award and program structure. Mayor Christina Fugazi highlighted changes in program scale and use, saying the funding brings the program total to $3.6 million for the summer cycle and noting the city will provide paid placements that include skill-building, professional development, and mentorship. Applewhite said participants may work up to 38 hours per week and that some program costs include participant laptops to support skill-building and resumes.
Applewhite explained the rationale for laptops: earlier program years provided loaner devices and staff learned many participants did not own a personal laptop; giving devices to participants helps build skills and support job readiness. “So we started giving out laptops the first year of the program,” Applewhite said, adding that the devices were intended as tools for participants’ continued development after the program.
Councilmembers questioned budget line items and staffing. Applewhite said the budget includes a program manager and administrative support; remaining operating funds will support partnerships with nonprofit workforce providers and direct participant supports. The mayor and council said they would press for scholarship and outreach to ensure broad access.
The council moved and seconded the acceptance of the grant; the motion carried 6–0 with Councilmember Ponce absent.
Why it matters The expanded funding will increase paid opportunities for Stockton youth this summer, provide hands-on work experience and training, and expand the city’s capacity for direct youth employment supports. The program includes scholarship supports and outreach plans to reach historically underrepresented youth.
What the council approved - Acceptance of Job Corps / youth workforce funding and authorization to implement the expanded YES program. - Program details include paid placements, up to 38 hours per week, and device distribution to participants as a workforce-support tool.
