US Department of Juvenile Justice YES Program Comes to Houston
HOUSTON (October 27, 2010) – HoustonWorks USA today announces the award of $400,000 from the United States Department of Juvenile Justice to operate the HoustonWorks USA Youth Empowerment Success (YES) Program which will serve youth, 12-17 who are currently on probation through the Harris County Juvenile Probation Office. HoustonWorks USA plans to serve more than 100 youths from four Harris County Community Unit Probation Service Offices.
“We are very excited about expanding our current offerings to those who are currently involved in the juvenile justice system,” said Larry Green, CEO, HoustonWorks USA. “By providing a path for these young people to stay in school and become productive members of society, everyone in the community will benefit.”
The YES Program is a career awareness program that will engage youth and their parents in activities that will assist them in determining career paths. The goal is to reduce crime and increase the youths’ ability to successfully function within the community, school, work place and home. Workshops will take place throughout the year that will address the developmental needs of the youth offenders including their academic foundation, life skills and good work ethic.
The program is designed to prepare the youth offenders that are currently in the juvenile justice system, to gain meaningful employment and access to educational and training opportunities while on probation.
About HoustonWorks USA:
Founded in 1984, HoustonWorks USA is the leading provider of services focusing on job placement, continuing education and vocational training. Serving more than 1 million annually, HoustonWorks USA provides job seekers with a variety of workshops including job search techniques, interviewing skills and resume writing, or use of the resource library with Internet access and postings of local, state and national job openings. Training is also available in career fields such as healthcare, business, computers and education. HoustonWorks USA manages several of the largest Workforce Solutions offices in Houston and the surrounding region for the Houston Galveston Area Council. These offices offer a wide range of services for job seekers as well as employers looking for trained workers. HoustonWorks also provides numerous youth programs including internships, scholarships, summits and summer camps. HoustonWorks is a 501(c) 3, tax-exempt organization. Visit www.houstonworks.org for additional information.
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