Simply put, older youth who have “aged out” of foster care, who have experienced homelessnes, or who have been involved with the justice system have more barriers on their journey towards meaningful work than other 18-21 year olds. 

The Works Wonders® program addresses the career readiness needs that these youth face. We’re connecting systems-involved youth to meaningful employment and paid work experiences. Our career development and employment engagement program provides:

• 12 hours of skills training to enhance career readiness

• 12 weeks of one-on-one career coaching with staff employment specialists 

• Paid work-based learning opportunities (like internships, job shadows, and informational interviews)

Last year, the amount of youth employed following program participation increased by 109% (from 23% to 48%). And for those who were already working, young people report important increases from part-time to full-time and approximately a 10% increase in the average pay rate after participating! So what does all this mean? Simply put, Works Wonders®...well...works.

Some work readiness programs only let you participate if you read or can do math at certain skill levels. In Works Wonders®, we believe that no matter where you are starting from, you can find success. We are committed to helping all young people explore career pathways and gain employment so there are no minimum requirements to participate, you must simply be between the ages of 14-26 and be currently or formerly in foster care, experiencing housing instability and homelessness, or have a history of justice system involvment.