May 20, 2004
May 20, 2004
LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced that plans are in place for almost 300 Benton Harbor youth to be employed as part of a summer jobs program developed by business and community leaders with support from the Governor’s Office.
The jobs program is being funded with approximately $375,000 in federal, state, and local funds, including $300,000 awarded to the state under the federal Workforce Investment Act and approved for the Benton Harbor summer jobs program by the State Administrative Board this week.
"This funding will support a summer youth employment program to help the young people of Benton Harbor learn valuable job skills and earn money," Granholm said. "I want to thank the regional business, education, and faith leaders who supported this effort, along with Citizens for Progressive Change who worked hard to make this a priority for the young people in the community."
In addition to the federal funds being provided by the Department of Labor and Economic Growth (DLEG), the summer jobs program will receive $50,000 from the Michigan Department of Transportation. Local organizations, including Michigan Works!, United Way of Southwest Michigan, Cornerstone Alliance, Council for World Class Community, and the Whirlpool Foundation, will provide a total of $25,880.
Numerous organizations will be supporting the summer jobs program with in-kind contributions valued at nearly $75,000. Those activities will include employer recruitment and commitments, enhancement activities for the participants, program volunteers, and marketing activities.
There will be almost 300 jobs available for area youths starting June 17.
From May 17 to 28, a public awareness campaign will distribute flyers to Benton Harbor youth regarding the jobs program. Applications for the jobs program will be accepted on June 7 and 8 at Benton Harbor High School, WHAT Community Center, and the Michigan Works Office. If more than 300 applicants apply, a lottery drawing for the jobs will be held on June 11. A mandatory orientation session for all potential job candidates will be held June 9 and 10.
"Helping the youth of Benton Harbor by providing them with the chance to be successful in the workplace will help the community continue its remarkable progress of recovery," Granholm said. "This is a true collaboration between the state and local communities and between public and private entities that will lead to invaluable learning experiences that will enrich the lives of the young people in Benton Harbor."
