Summer 2025
Youth Career Program
Employers
By participating in the Newport News Youth Career Program, employers gain access to a talented pool of motivated young individuals, ages 16-24, eager to explore career paths and develop essential skills. This summer employment initiative provides employers with the opportunity to mentor and guide youth through hands-on work experiences, while helping to uncover their passions and build future talent for the workforce. Engaging with the program not only supports the community but also strengthens your business by fostering the growth of skilled, motivated individuals who could become valuable team members.
Employer Role
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Main worksite is located in the City of Newport News.
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Provide productive work assignments to develop a work ethic, basic job skills, and workplace expectations, and explore career interests.
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Offer 25 hours of meaningful work each week between June-August.
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Commit to offering a safe work environment that promotes growth and equips youth with valuable skills in a new field.
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Follow the requirements stated in the YCP Partnership Agreement.
Expectations for Employers in the Newport News Youth Career Program
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Timely Application Review: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with the process closing once an adequate pool of applicants is reached. To secure your participation, submit your application early.
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Workplace Readiness & Development: Employers will provide youth and young adults (ages 16-24) from Newport News with meaningful work experience and training, helping them discover their talents, develop new skills, set career goals, and learn about the community while earning an income.
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Flexible Work Hours: Participants will work up to 25 hours per week at various City departments or private companies, performing tasks aligned with the organization's mission. Work hours may adjust based on the success and needs of each participant.
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Temporary Seasonal Positions: Job placement will be coordinated by program staff, considering the participant’s skills, interests, transportation, and organizational needs. Participants cannot be placed under direct supervision by a family member. Any familial relationships with current City employees must be disclosed during the application process.
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Program Attendance & Commitment: Employers should expect participants to attend the YCP Job Readiness Orientation and any related training sessions. Participants are expected to be punctual and attend regularly, with no more than three consecutive days or five total absences during the program.
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Complete Application Submission: Program staff will ensure all relevant information is included in the application, including answers to supplemental questions, ensuring consistency with the application or resume.
Employer Testimonials
"It has been such a great experience. These young adults have been a wonderful aspect to our classrooms."
-Corin Keller, Sarfan Early Childhood Center
"I was approached to take on some interns...The program's been really good though. We have a lot of different projects that we have to do throughout the year and sometimes we just don't have the bandwidth to do it."
-Tiffany Knotts, Riverside Health Systems
"I've been able to get a fresh perspective from a young person in the community who attends our events, who has actually been on vacation to all our attractions. So I get an insider's input which is very valuable.
-Desiree McDaniels, Newport News Tourism
"Servant leadership is at the heart of what we do at the Mariner's Museum and park, and being able to mentor the next generation has been a great opportunity. The youth that participate have been eager to show up, learn everything they can. It's a great opportunity to take advantage of, if you have the chance."
-Kelly Garner, The Mariners' Museum