ConsumerWatch: Youth Getting Help Finding Summer Jobs
SAN FRANCISCO (CBS 5) - Young people looking for summer jobs here in the bay area can get advice, resume help and in some cases, new clothes, to help them with their search.
San Francisco's Matchbridge program is one of hundreds of non-profits nationwide helping connect young people to more than 100,000 jobs pledged through President Obama's Summer Jobs+ program.
"Locally, we're attempting to help youth get 5,000 jobs and internships (in San Francisco) this summer," said Matchbridge director Matt Poland. Other local non-profits, including Jewish Vocational Services and Goodwill, are also helping link students with summer jobs.
Poland said many young people need a little extra push to enter the work place.
"They usually need more support. They haven't had a job before. They don't know how to apply, and they don't know how to follow up," Poland told ConsumerWatch.
And the numbers are against them, too. The nation's youth unemployment rate is 16%, twice that of the general population.
But, seasoned professionals, like Matchbridge volunteer Soo O said youth can be a distinct advantage.
"Fresh out of school, they have that energy and that passion."
Earlier this week, Matchbridge held its 2012 "Dress to Impress" event at the United Way headquarters in San Francisco. About three dozen young job seekers, including Leran Ryan of San Francisco took part. Among the activities - mock job interviews and "personal shopping," where participants could select two outfits.
Ryan, who hopes to get an internship with a San Francisco real estate company, picked a grey suit jacket.
"This kind of support is what people in my situation need," he said.
Matchbridge also offers a computer lab, where job seekers can go to fill out applications online.
The Summer Jobs+ program is also looking for employers to step up and offer make jobs and internships available this summer.
For more information on finding summer employment:
Teen Force (San Jose Based Program to help South Bay Teens aged 13-20 Find Jobs)
Youth Employment Partnership (Oakland)
San Mateo County Youth Internship Program
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