Gary approves $268,500 contract for summer youth work program to place 75 students

The City of Gary Board of Public Works and Safety voted June 3 to approve a professional services contract with the Center for Workforce Innovations (CWI) to administer an eight-week summer youth employment program for 75 Gary high-school sophomores and juniors.

Under the contract (not to exceed $268,500), CWI will provide onboarding, training, employer contracts, and oversight for placements that begin June 8 and run through August 7. Marcus Steel, city family and youth service coordinator, told the board the selection process was managed through school counselors with roughly 12 students per high school and backup candidates in place. He said 30 placements are within city placements (the parks department will host the bulk), with remaining placements at local employers matched to students’ interest forms (construction, hospitality, youth services, etc.).

Steel said the city will work with CWI on liability and employer contracts and recommended providing students with a city-signed certificate of internship participation at program completion.

President S announced a recusal from the vote because he serves as board president of CWI; the roll call recorded four yes votes and one recusal. The contract was approved and staff will finalize onboarding and employer agreements.

Why it matters: The program places city youth into paid, work-based learning experiences and creates a record for participants that can support future education or employment opportunities.

Next steps: CWI and city staff will complete employer contracts, finalize placements and onboarding, and provide certification documentation to participants at program completion.