The City of Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Summer Youth Employment Program has provided 102 youth work experience since beginning May 1.
According to Connie Jackson, senior youth program director, 365 applications were received this year.
Workers were placed in community centers, the Jefferson County Boys and Girls Club, funeral homes, county offices, and many other agencies.
The program gives youth ages 16-21 an opportunity to experience the responsibility and importance of having a job, according to Jackson.
Applicants could choose between three job areas — clerical, laborer or recreational.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Jackson said each year they take two hours every Friday to attend mandatory workshops. During the workshops, different business representatives come in and teach the workers about various topics.
Youth have already had a workshop on the correct way to handle a job interview. Workers watched a mock interview and stated what they thought the applicant did wrong. Jackson said they learned how to properly handle an interview and learn from the mistakes made in the mock interview.
Friday, the workers went to Simmons First National Bank for a money management workshop. They were able to open bank accounts if they wished and were taught how to manage their money.
Jackson said throughout her seven years of working in the program, she has seen many young people grow into responsible adults.
“I remember one young man was always in trouble and when he went through the program he learned responsibility and I haven’t seen any problems with him anymore,” Jackson said.
Jackson said this year they have had fewer workers due to less funding. Workers are paid minimum wage for six weeks of service and work 20 hours a week. Jackson said although it is only a temporary job, some employers have hired the employees full time after the summer program ends.
Jackson, a business education teacher at Jack Robey High School during the school year, said she got involved in the program because she enjoys seeing the young adults learn each year.
When she began, Jackson was performing the job alone but now Dee Clay, Cle’Etta McCray and Samuel Glover as coordinators and Jazlyn Jackson as an intern.
The program is offered every summer for residents in Pine Bluff/Jefferson County ages 16-21. They must also be a full-time high school or college student.