Idaho Youth Ranch Job Readiness Program
Youthworks is an 8-week paid on-the-job training designed to give young people the experience they need to succeed. Participants receive a $720 stipend for this program.
Participants get hands-on experience in retail sales, customer service, merchandising, inventory maintenance, cash handling, and teamwork.
Youthworks helps teenagers find a job while gaining valuable insight into changing job markets and early exposure to career planning.
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.
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Tuesday | Orientation Day! Welcome to YouthWorks!
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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.
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Thursday| Job Readiness: Discover the key to unlocking your potential and achieving success through cultivating a growth mindset and strong work ethic.
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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.
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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.
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Tuesday | Application Workshop: Get hands-on experience filling out job applications and learn helpful tips to stand out as an ideal candidate.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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12 hours of participation per week for the entire program in order to qualify for graduation.
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Picture ID (school ID, driver's license, passport, state ID, etc.) and social security card.
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Ability to work independently and lift at least 40 lbs.
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A desire to learn and grow.