Youth Development Program

Making the World a Better Place For All of Us

The POC Youth Development Program is a year-long program that is designed to equip low-income, academically talented youth 14 – 18 years of age with workforce readiness, leadership, entrepreneurship and financial literacy skills. The program has three phases.  Phase I is a 12-week training program currently conducted once per week via Zoom.  This Phase operates from March through May.  Phase II operates during the summer months with students working 20 per hours a week for a six-week period at locations assigned throughout Pinellas County.  Phase III is monthly contact with their case worker during the calendar year.  At the end of each phase, the student will receive a stipend.

Training topics include:

  • Interviewing
  • Social/Emotional Skills
  • Problem Solving
  • Decision Making/Goal Setting
  • Budgeting/Financial Management
  • Employability Skills
  • Healthy Living
  • Leadership and Community Involvement

After training, students are assigned to many different employers to gain hands-on work experience.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • 14-18 years of age
  • Presently in high school
  • Must meet A.L.I.C.E. income guidelines (Family $31,200 – $98,916 Annual) or DEO Poverty Income Guidelines (please CLICK HERE for income guidelines)
  • GPA of 2.5 or higher
How to Apply: 

Please click here to complete and submit your application to be considered for the Youth Development Program.

For More Information: (727) 823-4101 ext. 115