June 11, 2019 - Workforce Solutions Deep East Texas offers free guidance, support and incentives to help low-income youth prepare for success on the job in spite of barriers they might be facing. Those eligible could be working in 30 days or less.
Teens and young adults, ages 16-24 who are not in school or college, can receive work-readiness and life skills training that can help them get a good job and achieve their career goals. The program, called Dynamic Futures, is funded through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), and priority is given to youth who meet one or more of the following categories:
- School Dropout
- Connected to the Juvenile or Adult Justice System
- Homeless, Runaway, Foster Youth, Social Security, or Out-of-Home Placement
- High School Diploma/GED, Low Income, & Basic Skills Deficient
- High School Diploma/GED, Low Income, & English Language Learner
- Low-income and Needs Additional Assistance
- Pregnant or Parenting
- Disability
“Having the right skills is an important part of getting a good job and may assist in deciding on a career choice. Our youth specialists guide participants through an individualized training and work experience program,” said Benjamin King, Youth Program Specialist for Workforce Solutions Deep East Texas.
He explained, work experience opportunities vary in a number of different ways including when and where the participants work. Work placements can include both public sector (governmental entities, nonprofit organizations, schools, etc.) and private sector (for-profit companies) sites. Young people participating in work experience are assigned to specialist specially trained to help teach them appropriate work habits and job skills.
Before seeking work, participants benefit from educational opportunities and training including: resume writing, interviewing skills, job search strategies, job readiness, and job placement skills.
To apply for Dynamic Futures, follow these three steps:
Step 1: Visit your local Workforce Solutions Center at SHELBY COUNTY 145 CATCO DRIVE CENTER, TX 75935 (936) 598-2468 and speak with a Youth Talent Acquisition Specialist
Step 2: Complete Pre-enrollment
Step 3: Complete a WIOA Application and bring in the following documents:
Birth Certificate or US Passport
Social Security Card
Driver’s License or Picture ID, unexpired
Selective Service Registration if male & 18+
Find the Workforce Solutions Deep East Texas location near you by visiting www.detwork.org and clicking on ‘Find a Center.” The website also offers additional information about youth workforce services available.
