New Bedford Mayor Lang has instituted a Summer Jobs Program to hire city youth to prepare them for the working world. See http://www.gsmlaborcouncil.org/node/2480

Mayor Lang has been a great friend of labor and he needs our help. This is also a great chance to Initiate a young person to the labor movement.

The Council is looking for donations to sponsor youth in the program. You do not have to donate the full amount. Whatever your local can give will be helpful. If your local does not have a position available the Career Center will place them in public jobs e.g. public schools and parks.

Carpenters Local 1305, SEIU 1199 and the Building Trades Council have all made donations. Mayor Lang will be coming to the council office to recieve a check from the building trades.

Timing is important. The program will run 6-10 weeks, from the end of school to Friday, August 22, 2008. If you can make a donation contact President Rodrigues.

Program Descriptions

Summer Jobs Program. Youth 16 through 21 years complete job applications at the Greater New Bedford Career Center and are then matched by Career Center staff with employers according to employer needs and youth abilities and interest.   The youth are hired by the employer and paid by the employer in accordance with the employers own policies and procedures.  Jobs should begin anytime after school is out in late June.

Summer Youth Stipend Program.  Because most jobs require youth to be at least 16 years old, there are few job opportunities for youth ages 14 and 15. The Stipend Program is designed to provide a structured and meaningful summer community service activity for these youth. The program lasts 6 weeks and provides workshops, community service projects and recreational activities at least four days per week for up to 5 hours per day. Youth who successfully complete the program are given a $250 stipend at the end of the program.  Program begins in early July.