Throughout the pandemic, youth have been facing unique challenges related to employment, housing, education, and resource access. Youth in care have also been experiencing similar challenges. In response, the Hamilton Children’s Aid Society has started an innovative initiative: a Youth Summer Jobs program for former youth in care that empowers youth by removing barriers and supports young people from care utilize the resources needed to succeed.
With summer employment opportunities on the decline in our community due to COVID-19, the agency saw this as an opportunity to engage youth and offer an environment that promotes learning, skills development, and provide meaningful contributions to the agency’s work.
Beginning in July 2021, the Youth Summer Jobs program has allowed five youth from care to experience working in various departments across the agency while moving the agency’s strategic vision forward. This program has created countless opportunities for youth from care to provide their own insight and personal experiences, as well as learn important skills and gain valuable career experience.
“I want my voice and other youth’s insight to help guide the next steps of the organization so that we never stop challenging and improving the child welfare system,” says Dorian Jacobs, a former youth in care and Youth Summer Jobs program employee. “I want to be able to contribute and put the individual needs of the family and children first.”
Hamilton Children’s Aid Society, in partnership with families and our community, is committed to the safety, protection, and well-being of children and the strengthening of families, while valuing diversity and promoting equity. We envision a community where every child is a gift to be valued, nurtured, and kept safe.
For more information, please contact:
Jayme Noordermeer
Fund Development & Communications Coordinator
jnoordermeer@hamiltoncas.com
