YJC April 2022 Newsletter |
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YJC's Annual Benefit is this Thursday! |
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Our annual benefit, "The Future Starts Today," is taking place this Thursday, April 28th. We are excited to be hosting the annual fundraiser in person this year at Walden Chicago in the West Town neighborhood.
This year also marks a milestone in YJC history as we honor our departing Executive Director, Karen Tollenaar Demorest. Join us as we look back at the moments and the people who have made YJC what it is, envision what lies ahead and celebrate the supporters that make it a reality.
Remember to purchase a raffle ticket for your chance to win an exclusive dinner for 10 people, designed and served by culinary artist and Youth Job Center Culinary Arts Program Instructor, Chef Q Ibraheem. Dinner will include a five-course meal specially crafted by Chef Q, with each component carefully designed to compliment the next, using locally sourced ingredients and designed to reflect seasonal foods and produce selected from local and urban gardens and farms. Dinner will include wine pairings from local vendors to highlight each course.
Check the link below for more information on the event, buy a raffle ticket, or make a donation. Donations can also be made by texting YJC to 366283.
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Automotive Programs
Our North and South side automotive programs are in full swing! The South side program, in partnership with Olive-Harvey Community College, launched last month. Since beginning, participants have begun to learn the basics of auto mechanics and recently took a field trip to a local Penzoil Express in Blue Island to see what the day in the life of an Auto Mechanic is like.
On the North side, in partnership with Evanston Township High School, participants have been learning the basics of automotive, such as shop safety, tools and equipment, motor oil and transmission, tires, and more. Soon participants will visit Oakton Community College and learn more about their college-level automotive program. This way, participants can hear more about opportunities to further their training.
In the next few weeks, both North and South side participants will be placed into paid internships with local automotive employers. Upon completion of the program, all participants will receive industry-recognized certifications to jumpstart their careers in the automotive field. We're looking forward to seeing all of their success!
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Old Navy's This Way ONward
Old Navy's This Way ONward (TWO) training is beginning this month. TWO places young adults into 8-week long paid summer internships, or directly into employment at Old Navy or other GAP stores. Leading up to the internship, YJC and Old Navy provide hands-on training, coaching, mentorship, and supportive services.
Over 200 YJC youth who have completed Old Navy's TWO program have received offers for continuing employment post-internship and program alums tend to stay within the company for twice as long as their peers. Over 85% of last years participants agreed that the program has given them the skills they need to get and maintain a job in the future.
The following Old Navy stores are hiring now: Woodfield Mall (Schaumburg), Four Flags Shopping Center (Niles), North Riverside Mall, North & Kingsbury (Old Town), Oak Park, Riverpoint Center (Lincoln Park), Roosevelt (South Loop), Ford City Mall, Skokie, Marshfield Plaza (Morgan Park), Lincolnwood Town Center, Chicago Ridge Mall, State Street (Loop), Cermak Plaza (Berwyn), Village Square of Northbrook, Brookside Marketplace (Tinley Park), Orland Park Place, Shops at Oak Brook, Homewood, and Norridge.
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Participant of the Month
Tyrese was referred to YJC by his guidance counselor at Excel Academy, whom he kept a close relationship with after graduating in June 2021. Enthusiastic and eager to take on new challenges, Tyrese came to YJC to learn more about our Career Pathway Program and shared his interest in obtaining a Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) certification. Tyrese recognizes that while obtaining his CNA certification is important, having employment to bring in steady income will allow him to become financially stable.
With Tyrese’s dedication and promptness he was able to secure employment at NaNa’s as a Lead Cook, earning over $20.00 an hour. YJC is excited for his future and knows that with all of his hard work he will be able to accomplish all of his goals. If we were to google what qualities does a hard worker need in order to succeed in the workplace, we will find Tyrese’s name.
Let’s give a round of applause to Tyrese!
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Volunteer Appreciation Month
Throughout the month of April, YJC has been recognizing the dedication and support our volunteers show YJC's participants. Volunteers are at the heart of YJC's work, meeting with participants weekly (or more!) to facilitate or share wisdom during work-readiness trainings. Our young people are eager to learn from our volunteers, who review resumes, prep participants for interviews, and much more. Know that YJC thanks you and appreciates you all!
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Looking for a job?
If you've been looking for work, or are having trouble landing a job, then come to one of our Work Readiness Training sessions. Work Readiness Training prepares youth 18-25 years of age to succeed in finding and keeping a job. If you are interested in attending one, please click here to learn more!
Upcoming Work Readiness Training sessions:
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May 2nd - 6th and May 9th - 13th, Monday - Thursday from 3PM - 5PM, Friday 10AM-12PM
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May 16th - 20th and May 23rd - 27th, Monday - Thursday from 3PM - 5PM, Friday 10AM-12PM
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June 6th - 10th and June 13th - 17th, Monday - Thursday from 3PM - 5PM, Friday 10AM-12PM
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