Summer Youth Employment

At Urbana Neighborhood Connections Center (UNCC), summer is about more than keeping students busy. It is about preparing them for real-world success. Our Summer Youth Employment Program gives students ages 16 to 24 the chance to explore career paths, gain hands-on work experience, and earn competitive wages while being supported by professionals in their field.

Through a combination of workforce entry training and job placements tailored to individual interests and skills, this program helps students prepare for their future while staying engaged and productive during the summer. Every student is encouraged to discover their strengths, learn workplace expectations, and build confidence that will last far beyond the program.

The Summer Youth Employment Program is designed to prepare students for both personal and professional growth. This is not just a summer job. It is an opportunity to learn how to thrive in the workplace and beyond.

Each student can expect:

• Workforce Entry Training
  Before being placed on a job site, students complete training sessions focused on workplace readiness. This includes communication, teamwork, punctuality, problem solving, and other essential professional skills.
• Career Exploration and Skill Building
  Students are assessed for their interests and abilities, then matched with work opportunities that align with their goals. These experiences allow them to learn more about industries they may pursue in the future.
• On the Job Support
  Students are placed at a worksite with guidance and mentorship from professionals who help them succeed. Program staff also provide ongoing check-ins to ensure students feel supported and confident in their roles.
• Competitive Wages
  Students earn pay for their work throughout the summer, giving them valuable financial experience and the ability to contribute to personal or family needs.
• Professional Networking
  Through their placements, students meet and connect with professionals in their chosen industries, opening doors to future opportunities.

While every student’s journey looks different, the structure of the program is designed to provide consistency and growth.

• Late May: Registration and orientation, where students learn about program expectations and begin workforce training.
• Early June: Job site placements begin, with students applying their new skills in real-world settings.
• June to August: Weekly training refreshers and ongoing mentorship, with check-ins from program staff.
• Late August: Program wrap up, including recognition of students’ achievements and discussion of next steps in their career or education journey.

The Summer Youth Employment Program is open to students ages 16 to 24 who meet certain eligibility requirements. These may include income, residency, and risk factors or exposure potential for criminal activity.

Our goal is to create opportunities for students who may face barriers to employment and provide a supportive environment where they can grow, succeed, and gain meaningful experiences.

Students who gain early work experience are more likely to build the confidence and skills needed to succeed long term. By providing structured job training and professional exposure, the Summer Youth Employment Program helps students:

• Develop strong work habits and transferable skills
• Understand industry expectations and responsibilities
• Learn how to balance job demands with personal growth
• Build resilience, independence, and self confidence

These lessons do not just prepare students for the summer. They prepare them for life.

UNCC takes the safety and well-being of every student seriously. All worksites are vetted, and program staff remain engaged with students and supervisors to ensure safe and supportive environments. Students are never left without guidance or oversight, and any issues are addressed promptly with care.

The Summer Youth Employment Program begins each year in early June, with registration and orientation held in late May. Spots are limited, and early application is strongly encouraged.

To enroll or ask questions, please contact us at: (217) 954-1749 or fill out the form below.