Sarah Gibson WQAD Davenport/Moline in Illinois reports YWCA Quad Cities is continuing its Pre-Apprenticeship Jobs Program for a second Summer, giving Illinois youth paid work experience and professional skills training. The 13-week program is open to residents ages 16-to-24 and provides full or part-time employment at local businesses. All student wages are funded by the YWCA, easing the cost for employers and helping young people gain job experience. The first week's focus is on professional development, including résumé and cover letter writing, job readiness training and career exploration. Participants also learn life skills such as budgeting, understanding insurance and Employee Benefits, and how to open a bank account through workshops and guest speakers. “The job application process is an endless cycle of needing experience to get experience, leaving youth feeling discouraged and hopeless,” said Lexy Larson, a Grant Specialist and the Program Manager for YWCA Quad Cities. “Our program allows youth to gain (180) hours of work experience in various fields, making them stronger candidates for employment, allowing them to earn some money and creating lasting pathways for success.”

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