YouthWOrks!
Unlock Your Strengths, Shape Your Future
An 8-week paid job training program giving young people the real-world skills and experience they need to launch their careers.
YouthWorks! is Idaho Youth Ranch's paid on-the-job training program for teens and young adults. Over 8 weeks, participants gain hands-on retail experience, build transferable professional skills, and earn a $720 stipend — all while working in a supportive IYR thrift store environment. By the end, they're job-ready, more confident, and backed by the IYR alumni network for life.
What is YouthWorks!?
YouthWorks! is an 8-week paid job training program run by Idaho Youth Ranch. Participants work at an IYR thrift retail location near their home, gaining direct on-the-job experience in a real work environment — not a classroom simulation. They develop skills in retail,customer service, inventory, cash handling, and professional communication, while also exploring career planning and financial literacy. Participants receive a $720 stipend for completing the program. High school students are welcome and encouraged to apply — the schedule is designed to accommodate most school schedules.
8 weeks
Program Length
$720
Stipend
Treasure Valley & North Idaho
Locations
Who Can Apply
YouthWorks! is built for teens and young adults who are ready to build real work experience in a supportive environment. High school students are especially encouraged to apply.
This is a part-time program designed to accommodate most school schedules. Weeks 2–7 involve a 12-hour weekly schedule set with the site manager. Week 8 requires availability Tuesday–Friday, 4:00PM–7:00 PM for the Employment Exploration workshop.
The 8-Week Program
Week 1: Orientation & Onboarding
Participants complete orientation and begin learning the ins and outs of retail operations at an IYR thrift store. They meet their manager and establish their weekly schedule for the weeks ahead. The focus is on professional expectations, workplace norms, and getting comfortablein the environment.
Weeks 2–7: Hands-On Experience
Participants receive on-the-job training at an IYR thrift retail location close to their home. Each week involves a 12-hour schedule. By the end of week 7, trainees have built a solid foundation in retail employment with skills applicable in any professional setting — including improved confidence, customer service abilities, and new friendships formed alongside peers.
Skills Built
Week 8: Employment Exploration
Tuesday
Application Workshop: Hands-on practice filling out job applications, with tips to stand out as an ideal candidate.
Wednesday
Career exploration with local businesses
Thursday
Career exploration with local businesses Financial Class: Personal finance education —balancing a checkbook, building credit, creating a budget.
Friday
Graduation Day: Families are invited to celebrate. Participants receive a certificate of achievement and officially become Idaho Youth Ranch Alumni.
Locations are available throughout the state in communities where Idaho Youth Ranch has a thrift store including:
Treasure Valley
Participants train at an IYR thrift retail location near their home in the Treasure Valley.
North Idaho
YouthWorks! is also available to participants in North Idaho through IYR's North Idaho thrift locations.
Location placement is based on proximity to the participant's home and site availability. Discuss your preferred location at application.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
parents may have
Answers to some of the questions families often ask when trying to understand these challenges.
Do I need work experience to apply?
No prior work experience is required — YouthWorks! is designed to be your first professional experience. The program gives you everything you need to succeed, starting from the beginning. All you need is commitment, reliability, and the willingness to learn.
Can I participate if I'm still in high school?
Yes — high school students are welcome and encouraged to apply. The part-time schedule (12 hours/week) is designed to accommodate most school schedules. Discuss your school commitments at intake so we can find the right fit.
When do I get paid?
Participants receive a $720 stipend upon successful completion of the program — that means attending at least 12 hours per week for all 8 weeks and completing graduation. Week 8 workshops are required for graduation.
What documents do I need to bring?
You'll need a picture ID (school ID, driver's license, passport, or state ID) and your Social Security card. Make sure you have these ready before your first day. If you have questions about acceptable documents, email youthworks@youthranch.org.
How do I apply?
Complete the application and a program team member will get back to you with next steps.
