Many young people, especially those from disadvantaged communities, have not acquired the skills necessary to succeed in the workplace. As a result, many employers are reluctant to hire at-risk youth or lack the resources to train them. While program providers support the idea of engaging employers in youth workforce preparation activities, a Chapin Hall study shows that program providers, employers, and schools often work at cross purposes, despite sharing the same fundamental goal.

This web conference will discuss the challenges faced by policymakers, community groups, and employers who aim to prepare youth for the workplace. We will review Chapin Hall research that explores the effect of misalignments between employers and youth program providers on expanding employer involvement. Speakers will also discuss state and federal initiatives that address youth workforce development. We will highlight a framework for creating community partnerships among various stakeholders to ensure that youth have access to developmentally appropriate programs that can lead to career opportunities and success.

Speakers:

• Jan DeCoursey, Researcher, Chapin Hall Center for Children
• Elizabeth Gaines, Program Manager, Forum for Youth Investment
• Steve Trippe, President and Executive Director, New Ways to Work
• Moderator: Martha Shirk, Author, On Their Own: What Happens to Kids When They Age Out of the Foster Care System

The web conference is free for attendees and space is limited. To join the web conference, you need a computer with an Internet connection. The audio portion of the conference is available by telephone or over the Internet. To learn more about what you need to participate in the web conference, review the technical requirements.