GYA Youth Employment Program

Youth economic advancement

Other

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

The Youth Employment Program serves low- to moderate-income youth ages 14–24 in Glendale, many of whom face barriers to employment. Glendale has a population of about 203,000, with 17.9% under 18, and approximately one in seven young adults aged 18–24 are disconnected—neither in school nor working.
The program primarily supports Armenian and Latino youth, along with smaller groups of Asian, White, and African American participants. Many come from immigrant families, and a significant portion—between one-third and one-half—receive public assistance.
With 15.6% of Glendale’s population living in poverty, youth often struggle academically and face limited opportunities. The city has also seen a rise in homeless youth, with few emergency housing resources available. The Youth Employment Program addresses these challenges by offering training, support, and job opportunities to help youth achieve greater stability and long-term success.

GYA's Youth Employment Program provides an innovative, unique and holistic approach to workforce development for young people, especially those facing significant barriers to employment. The program combines pre-employment training, paid work experience, mentorship, and ongoing case management to prepare youth for long-term success in the workforce.
Participants receive a confidential needs assessment and are placed in community-based jobs aligned with their career interests, where they receive hands-on experience and practical training. Worksite supervisors serve as mentors, guiding youth on the job, while GYA case managers provide support and monitor each participant’s progress to ensure successful placements.
The program also includes a robust training component, covering job application preparation, resume writing, interview skills, professional dress, and workplace communication. Additional instruction focuses on essential soft skills such as work ethic, punctuality, attendance, office etiquette, and teamwork. Financial literacy, career exploration, and labor market education further strengthen participants’ readiness for future employment.
Priority is given to vulnerable populations including foster youth, parenting youth, individuals with disabilities, youth experiencing homelessness, and recent immigrants or refugees. GYA’s goal is to help these youth secure unsubsidized employment for at least six months, creating a pathway toward stability and self-sufficiency.

Youth in Los Angeles County face higher unemployment rates than the general population—8.5% compared to 4.5% in October 2022—highlighting the need for targeted support. Research also shows that youth not involved in extracurricular activities are significantly more at risk for drug use and teen pregnancy.
GYA's Youth Employment Program helps address these issues by providing youth with essential job training, paid work experience, and mentorship. The program equips participants with the tools they need to secure and retain employment, fostering economic stability and reducing poverty. Also contributing to becoming positive contributing members of our community.
Each youth is paired with a dedicated case manager who offers personalized support and connects them to resources that address their individual needs. This holistic approach promotes long-term personal and professional success, helping youth become positive, contributing members of the community.