Monday, June 26 was the formal launch of this summer’s San José Works program, a six-week long summer work experience program that will offer 375 San José youth from low-income and underserved communities a professional learning experience of meaningful and practical work related to a career of interest.

“Since 2015, over 5,000 youth have gained valuable job experience ensuring that we continue to build a pipeline to careers for underserved communities and a skilled workforce for Silicon Valley employers,” explained San José City Manager Jennifer Maguire. “When we invest in our youth, our entire community will see the benefits.”

Above: Youth participating in this summer's program attended a kickoff event to pick up their program materials on June 22, 2023

San José Works is a partnership between the City of San José’s work2future program and Parks, Recreation & Neighborhood Services’ (PRNS) Youth Empowerment Alliance (formerly known as the Mayor's Gang Prevention Task Force). The program provides youth ages 14-18 with paid work experiences in high growth sectors such as Information Technology, Finance, Advanced Manufacturing, Health Care, and Construction.

“Through San José Works, we’re connecting underserved youth with internship opportunities with top employers in the South Bay like Intuit and Roku,” said San José Mayor Matt Mahan. “We’re giving local high school students a strong foundation – connecting them with mentors, resources and the support needed to thrive in the workforce.”

This summer, participating youth will be placed in a total of 100 different types of jobs in organizations such as CreaTV, the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose, the San José Fire Department, and more. In addition to job experience, youth will receive critical life skill instruction in core competencies such as job readiness, financial literacy, and time management and supportive services such as transportation and clothing. Participants may take advantage of mentorship and job coaches to assist with continuing a career path, as well as job placement and supportive services provided by work2future once this summer program ends.

"We are thrilled to witness the growth and development of these talented young individuals as they enter the workforce," said Ruby Carrasco, Program Manager of San José Works. "This program serves as a bridge between young talent and employers, fostering economic growth and building a strong workforce for the future of San José."

Approximately 80% of these participants come from low-resource backgrounds and neighborhoods. Youth are referred to the program through PRNS’ Youth Empowerment Alliance and partnerships with organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club of Silicon Valley, Opportunity Youth Academy, East Side Union High School District, and the Santa Clara Probation office.

Employers and organizations interested in contributing to San José Works by becoming a participating employer or mentor can contact Ruby Carrasco at ruby.carrasco@sanjoseca.gov or by (408) 390-7566. To learn more about San Jose Works and how you can get involved, please visit bit.ly/SanJoseWorks