Support Summer Jobs for Kids
Oregon’s teenage unemployment is the 3rd highest in the nation at over 31% - a new post-World War II high. The numbers are even worse for low-income and kids of color with some populations facing unemployment above 70%. But not having a job is only part of the problem. Too many teens do not have the skills employers need and in 10 years the Portland area alone will need 50,000 new workers.
Working during the teenage years (16-19) is more than just a paycheck. If you talk to any Oregonian over 45 you are likely to hear about those summers spent picking berries- the early morning bus, the afternoon heat, the lifelong lessons from working hard. Research shows that kids who work are more likely to stay in school and graduate. They better understand the connection between earning and learning, provide more value to employers, and earn more money over the course of their lives.
Last summer, for the first time in 10 years, the federal government made a modest investment in summer jobs for kids. Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, more than 4,000 low-income Oregon kids got jobs. They earned over $5.5 million and generated almost $8 million in economic impact. A study conducted by Oregon State University of 24 Oregon Counties showed that each dollar Oregon spent in wages for youth last summer resulted in an economic impact of $1.46, and that Oregon’s youth tended to spend their dollars locally, supporting local businesses, themselves and their families, paying off debt and saving for the future.
Connecting these jobs to growth industries, career related learning requirements, credit recovery and remedial/enrichment activities would promote academic and economic success. Existing statewide infrastructure as well as government and private sector investment make this a tremendous partnership and leverage opportunity for MMT.
anonymous
shared this idea
8 comments
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Bob Halligan
commented
Summer jobs are so important for young people in order to help them develop basic work skills that will prepare them for the future. Summer work provides progress towards independence, builds self esteem and confidence, as well as providing needed structure in young people's lives. Unfortunately, it has become more difficult for employers to provide summer jobs and help is needed to structure a program that will help employers provide summer employment for youth.
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Tracy
commented
Working when I was a teenager was not only a privilege but a necessity for the things I wanted. Getting parents involved in the process would help. Often both parents are so busy working themselves to make ends meet, they aren't able to coach and help their teenagers in getting the jobs. Schools play a vital role in preparing the student to become a worker. The type of jobs are changing and the skills and attitudes need to change with them. The berry picking jobs have become automated and many of the types of jobs we had as teenagers no longer exist. Finding was of tapping in to the new generations skill set is the key to teenage emplyment.
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steve bekofsky
commented
We are currently experiencing a crisis in the work-ready pipeline. In this economic climate, older workers are competing for the jobs that youth typically fill. Youth have little opportunity to experience employment and develop the type of skills that will prepare them for future work success. We are currently experiencing the highest youth unemployment rates on record. This is leading to a multitude of related problems. Summer youth programs will result in a high rate of return.
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Rocky Hadley commented
Youth need work experiences early in life to increae their exposure to work , to help develop a work ethic and work experiences to be able to intigrate into the workforce post highschool. Early employment helps students see how school directly relates to getting jobs and they will learn how to keep a job. Students will then be more likley to contribute a lifetime of work and not spuratic employment as many youth do today with out work related experiences and mentorig in the world of work.
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Rosie Pryor
commented
Summer youth employment is the perfect idea. I've seen the research about the lifelong negative impacts on youth who cannot secure summer or early employment. They never quite catch up. More than ever, employers need help and have NO resources to bring unskilled youth into their places of business. This is a win-win idea for all parties. Summer youth employment! Yeah!
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chuckf
commented
Employment in the teen years is one of the best indicators of long term employment and workplace success. Jobless youth are more likely to drop out of school, less likely to complete postsecondary education and have a greater likelihood of involvment in the criminal system. Summer jobs provides the opportunity to develop work readiness skills, learn about careers, and earn wages that will benefit the young person and his/her family. Summer jobs is truly a "Million Dollar Idea!"
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agnesbalassa3
commented
I work for a statewide association that has been looking at this issue. The the lack of employment opportunities for youth has been identified as a crisis throughout developed and under developed nations. Many are taking steps to avoid the creation of what they refer to as a "lost generation." Research shows that the lack of employment for youth during their teen years leads to a permanent reduction in their life time earning power and career advancement. Even before the recent economic crisis companies were concerned about the lack of work ethic and job readiness demonstrated by youth. One of the best ways for youth to gain these skills is by taking part in summer work experiences. HOwever, the current economic downturn has made it exceedingly difficult for youth to get work. The summer youth employment programs with which I am familiar typically integrate educational activities with summer employment, creating a learn and earn environment - helping youth to earn credits, complete high school and learn additional skills while earning a pay check. And, compared to so many other investments, the cost for this one is relatively small. This is a potential win-win-win, something Oregon needs right now.
Agnes Balassa, Oregon Workforce Partnership
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joigeoff
commented
I think this is a good idea along with helping create volunteer jobs for teens. They need to know how good it feels to help others without expecting a reward.
