Note: please note that this issue overview should (a) contain links to the information on this topic that is focused either the local, state, national, or global level, and (b) be neutrally presented, based on facts, and include footnotes for each of the items.  See the Research Guide and Information Sources to assist you. 

Goal Statement   one sentence that further defines the topic 

• To help youth find summer employment opportunities. 

Policy Options / Model Programs   specific policies or program models, grouped by type, that are profiled 

• Increase in paid summer opportunities: The amounts of paid summer opportunities are limited and are not enough to the serve the need of the urban youth population.  There needs to be an increase in summer jobs and internships for high school students to supply the high population demand.  Limited summer opportunities force students to neglect career-orientated internships and accept paying retail and customer service positions, etc.  In extreme situations students are not able to obtain any sort of summer employment as a result scarce options. 

• Increase the availability of government sponsored and other programs: Private institutions may not have the resources to hire many students over the summer for pay.  If government agencies could reimburse companies or offer stipends, students may be able to participate in more programs.  Also, if the number of programs and sizes of enrollment were increased less students would be left without summer internships.  Extending the 2009 Youth Summer Work Experience Program to a permanent program is another option.

• Increase accessibility/awareness of summer opportunities: By making the knowledge of summer opportunities more available to urban youth the participation will grow.  Many do not have accessibility because of social dynamics or advertising in school or communities.   The steering and out reach programs should be adjusted as well. It is proposed that government agencies, individual programs, and companies make extensive efforts to ensure that more high school students are aware of opportunities.  

Local/State/National Information    additional information on this topic at the local, state, national, global level

• Summer Youth Employment and Training - USA

• Summer Youth Employment and Training - New Jersey

  • Summer Youth Employment and Training - Trenton, NJ

Glossary of Terms   key words or phrases that the layperson needs to know to understand this issue 

• Summer Internship - a paid or unpaid job opportunity in the summer that prepares one for a career in an area(s) of interest 

• Youth - any adolescent seeking opportunities for a successful career/future 

Bibliography