BY BTL STAFF
FERNDALE – XTL Youth Workforce Development Program is a 24-week pilot program designed to empower LGBT youth in Metro Detroit with primary and secondary skills necessary to be successful in workforce navigation.
Youth will be exposed to theoretical and practical applications of a plethora of skills used everyday by the Michigan workforce. The program will provide 12 weeks of interactive training and 12 weeks of on-the-job training.
The pilot period will begin in August 2015 and run through January 2016, with 15 Metro Detroit youth, ages 16-24, in participation.
Key program components will include soft skills development, or "Skills To Pay The Bills," which has been adapted from the Department of Disability Employment Policy, utilizing interactive skill building activities based on up to date, researched job skills. Areas of focus will include communication, problem solving and critical thinking, professionalism, enthusiasm and attitude, networking and teamwork. Youth will learn how to write a resume and cover letter and improve interview skills.
Hard Skills Development, or on-the-job training, will complete the second 12 weeks of course work, where youth will participate in working together as a team to successfully launch and manage a business housed in the Affirmations Marketplace. In addition to serving as mentors, a member of the Business Advisory Council will provide youth with ongoing guidance and counsel.
Those interested in the opportunity should contact Affirmations' Youth Program Manager, Lilianna Reyes, as soon as possible. Reyes can be reached at 248-398-7105 and by email at [email protected].
