Workforce Academy for Youths

EDITOR’S NOTE: Each week, we feature intergenerational program ideas that were tried and successful. This series is a tool to highlight various age-optimized programs and practices. The program descriptions are provided by representatives of the programs. Inclusion in this series does not imply Generations United’s endorsement or recommendation, but rather encourages ideas to inspire other programs.

In the latest of series, we feature Workforce Academy for Youth (WAY), based in San Diego County, California.

(Check our archives for parts 1-33.)

Workforce Academy for Youth (WAY) mission is to give foster youth the opportunity to learn and gain work experience to better prepare for a county position (or equivalent job) and/or to encourage him or her to continue his or her education.

The County of San Diego implemented WAY in September 2006 to provide workforce experience to those who are "aging out" of the foster care system and transitioning to self-sufficiency.

WAY is a six-month paid internship program that provides employment, training and mentorship to emancipating foster youth age 17-21.

The program unites youth with older adult Life Skill Coaches to support the development of work and life skills.

Got something cool you tried that was successful? Why not tweet your cool intergenerational ideas to #cooligideas? You can also post them to our Intergenerational Connections Facebook Group or just text us through the Facebook Messenger app (friend me to join our Cool Intergenerational Ideas group discussion). We want to highlight innovative age-optimized programs and practices through our blog, social media and weekly e-newsletter! Share the inspiration.