More than 180 local area young people will get a summer job through the expansion the Youth Opportunities summer employment programs in Nipissing.

The Summer Jobs for Youth and Youth in Policing programs are part of the government’s Youth Opportunities Strategy that provides youth with opportunities to help them develop valuable work skills with local employers and police services.

Locally, Yes! Employment Services Inc. has recruited employers and youth, and the North Bay Police Service has recruited youth interested in a policing career. Participants are given one week of training, a six to seven-week paid job placement, and preparation for future employment or education and training.

More than $769,000 is being spent on the two jobs programs in Nipissing this year.

“It is important for our youth to have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience, while gaining confidence and learning new skills,” said Monique Smith, MPP for Nipissing. “This program provides our local youth with the opportunity to build their resumes which will benefit them when searching for employment later in life.”

“This summer, young Ontarians will have an opportunity to acquire critical work and life skills through the Youth Opportunities summer employment program. Through this program, these youth will gain valuable work experience, meet employers and mentors, and build their resumes. For many, this will be more than just a summer job – it will be a first step towards reaching their full potential,” said Laurel Broten, Minister of Children and Youth Services.

“The Youth Opportunities Strategy allows 15 to 18 year old at-risk youth to develop new skills and gain valuable workplace experience. Summer employment builds confidence, encourages youth to return to school and assists young people to reach their full potential. The Summer Jobs for Youth is a great investment in our local youth and our community,” said Gisele Cousineau, CEO for YES! Employment Services Inc.

QUICK FACTS

§ This year, The Youth Opportunities Strategy is operating in 32 communities across the province.

§ More than 4.600 young people will have summer employment through the strategy.

§ The total investment for the Youth Opportunities Strategy is approximately $24 million, an increase of $3 million over last year. This includes some financial support from the federal government.

§ These summer jobs programs pay at or above adult minimum wage.

§ The Youth Opportunities Strategy is part of Ontario’s Poverty Reduction Strategy to reduce child poverty by 25 per cent over five years.

LEARN MORE

§ Find out more about the Youth Opportunities Strategy

§ See the list of communities participating in the Youth Opportunities Strategy

§ Read about Ontario’s Poverty Reduction Strategy