Start Strong: Support for Young Job Seekers
Summer is a great time for young people to get some work experience, but many of them can face challenges when looking for a job. Our Youth Employment Opportunity Program can help. This program helps youth get ready for school, work, and a successful future.
We work to remove barriers that make it hard for young people to succeed. When we support youth at this important time in their lives, we help them build a brighter future and create stronger communities for everyone.
"During my time as a youth program specialist, I saw the difference we can make. We provided support and guidance to at-risk youth, helping them build a path to become our future leaders,” said Jonathan Gumasing, former Youth Employment Opportunity Program Specialist. “This program helped me realize that our work at the Employment Development Department has a lasting impact."
How the Program Helps
- Support From Peers: Work with mentors that understand what you’re going through. They give advice, answer your questions, and help you set goals.
- Help Finding Resources: Need help with things like bus passes, housing, childcare, and clothes for work? We can connect you to the right resources.
- Career Coaching: Need some advice for what’s next? Whether it’s school, training, or a job, the youth program helps you plan for your future.
- Job Search Support: Get help with resumes, job applications, interviews, and how to look for work.
- Skill-Building Workshops: Learn how to work with others, speak with confidence, use computers, and get ready for the workplace.
- Education and Training: Get connected to programs that help you earn a high school diploma or GED.

Start Building Your Future Today
The youth-dedicated program works with the America’s Job Centers of California (AJCC) network to help you get started.
- See if you qualify using our youth program fact sheet (PDF). Learn more about the program.
- Find an AJCC office near you with youth program contact information.
- Explore career tools with our Toolbox for Job Seekers.
This is an important time to learn new skills and get experience for the future. We’ll help you get there.
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