Hamilton Co. receives almost $250,000 for Youth Employment Program – Local 3 News

Hamilton County Expands Youth Employment Program with State Funding

Introduction

The Hamilton County Mayor’s Office has announced that the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development has awarded nearly $250,000 to enhance the Youth Employment Program. This initiative aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10).

Funding and Program Overview

The total funding amounting to $248,113 will be utilized to support paid internships and job placements for local students and young adults starting this summer. The program aims to provide meaningful work experience while promoting economic inclusion and skill development.

Program Impact and Participation

1. In 2024, the Youth Employment Program connected over 130 students from high schools, colleges, and universities across Hamilton County with real-world work experience.
2. More than $270,000 in wages were distributed to participants, demonstrating a strong commitment to Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8).
3. Participants can earn up to $3,500 while acquiring career skills that contribute to lifelong employability.

Eligibility and Support Services

• The program targets individuals aged 16–24 for part-time, paid internships of up to 25 hours per week.
• Participants receive comprehensive support including job coaching, résumé assistance, and workplace readiness training, promoting Quality Education (SDG 4) and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10).

Employer Involvement and Incentives

• Local employers are encouraged to participate in the program by offering internship opportunities.
• Employers will be reimbursed for youth wages, incentivizing community engagement and fostering partnerships that support Sustainable Development Goals.

How to Apply or Get Involved

Interested parties can apply or get involved by contacting Jennifer Thurman via email at JThurman@hamiltontn.gov.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • The article discusses youth employment, paid internships, and job placements, directly relating to promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
2. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • The program offers workplace readiness training, résumé support, and career skill development, linking to inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.
3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • By targeting youth ages 16–24 and providing paid internships, the program helps reduce inequalities by offering opportunities to young people from various educational backgrounds.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 8 Targets
   • Target 8.6: Substantially reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education, or training.
   • Target 8.5: Achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including young people.
2. SDG 4 Targets
   • Target 4.4: Increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment.
3. SDG 10 Targets
   • Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Number of Youth Employed or in Internships
   • The article states that more than 130 students were connected with work experience, which can be used as an indicator for Target 8.6.
2. Amount of Wages Distributed
   • Over $270,000 in wages distributed to participants reflects economic benefits and decent work conditions, relevant to Target 8.5.
3. Participation Rate in Training Programs
   • Participation in job coaching, résumé support, and workplace readiness training can measure progress toward Target 4.4.
4. Age Group Coverage
   • Recruitment of youth aged 16–24 indicates focus on inclusion, relevant to Target 10.2.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: local3news.com