Idaho Youth Ranch Job Readiness Program

Paid Job Training - Treasure Valley and North Idaho

Our program involves 8-week hands-on training designed for youth 14-24 years old.

Training takes place in Boise, ID and is available to youth within 30-40 miles of our Emerald Street location. For youth outside of the Treasure Valley, distance options are available.

Below is a tentative schedule of what participants can expect during each week of the program.

Week 1: Onboarding & Orientation

Participants work with a Job Specialist to prepare for the program. Youth must be available from 4 pm - 7 pm, Tuesday - Friday this week.

• Tuesday | Orientation Day! Welcome to YouthWorks!

• Wednesday | Thrift Store Workshop: A group field trip to an Idaho Youth Ranch thrift store offers supervised, hands-on tutorials for the work youth will perform in later weeks.

• Thursday| Job Readiness: Discover the key to unlocking your potential and achieving success through cultivating a growth mindset and strong work ethic. 

• Friday | Interview Workshop: Simulated job interview exercises with real-time feedback provides trainees tips on excelling professionally.

Week 2-7: Hands-on Experience

Participants receive on-the-job training at an IYR thrift retail location close to their homes. Each week involves a 12-hour schedule determined by the manager and trainee during an initial interview.

• By the end of the 7th week, program participants have developed a solid foundation in retail employment with transferable skills applicable in any work setting. Trainees often cultivate improved confidence and form new friendships alongside building a professional skill set.

Week 8: Transition to Employment

  Participants work with a Job Specialist to transition into the workforce. Youth must be available from 4 pm - 7 pm, Tuesday - Friday this week.

• • Tuesday | Application Workshop: Get hands-on experience filling out job applications and learn helpful tips to stand out as an ideal candidate. 

  • Wednesday | Financial Class:  As trainees earn their own money, they gain a deeper understanding of personal finance. Balancing a checkbook, building credit, and creating a budget that works for them empowers youth with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed financially. 

  • Thursday | Job Search Workshop: Applying the knowledge and skills they've developed over the last eight weeks, trainees begin their job search with helpful guidance.

  • Friday | Graduation Day: Youth are welcome to invite their families to show off their accomplishments. Participants will receive a certificate of achievement and become official Idaho Youth Ranch Alumni. 

High school students are welcome and encouraged to apply! This part-time job will be designed to accommodate most school schedules. Check out the Trainee Job Description here. 

For more information, please email questions to youthworks@youthranch.org

Program Requirements

• 12 hours of participation per week for the entire program in order to qualify for graduation. 

• Picture ID (school ID, driver's license, passport, state ID, etc.) and social security card. 

• Ability to work independently and lift at least 40 lbs.

• A desire to learn and grow.