The youth program is linked closely to the local labor market needs and community youth programs and services, with strong connections between academic and occupational learning. Youth programs promote leadership development and citizenship through voluntary community service opportunities, adult mentoring and follow-up, and targeted opportunities for youth living in high poverty areas.

Description
Youth programs are operated on a year-round basis by the 25 local Michigan Works! Agencies (MWAs) located throughout the state. The types of services that are included in the youth program include tutoring, study skills training, alternative secondary school offerings, summer employment opportunities, paid and unpaid work experience, occupational skill training, leadership development opportunities, supportive services, adult mentoring, follow-up services, and comprehensive guidance and counseling.

Eligibility
An eligible youth is an individual who:

• Is age 14 through 21; and
• Is a low-income individual and is within one or more of the following categories:
  • Deficient in basic literacy skills School dropout
  • Homeless, runaway, or foster child
  • Pregnant or parenting
  • Offender
  • An individual who requires additional assistance to complete an educational program, or to secure and hold employment

Procedure
The federal funds are allocated by formula to the 25 local MWAs. The local MWAs must submit annual plans to the Department of Labor & Economic Growth (DLEG) for approval. Funds are allocated on an annual basis starting in July.

Additional Information
For general information, contact Michigan Works! at 1-800-285-WORKS (9675) or the local MWA. For technical program questions, contact:

Department of Labor & Economic Growth
Office of Workforce Development
201 N. Washington Square, 5th Floor
Lansing, Michigan 48913
Telephone: (517) 335-5858
FAX: (517) 373-7794