Connecting Youth with Career Opportunities

YouthWorks, managed by Commonwealth Corporation on behalf of the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD), is a state-funded employment program that helps teens and young adults develop the skills and experience needed to build sustainable careers. Through paid, short-term placements and a focus on leadership development, YouthWorks plays a critical role in addressing youth unemployment, fostering inclusion, and promoting economic mobility. 

 

Spotlight on Hannah Elbaum and the Impact of YouthWorks


In this post, we’re spotlighting Hannah Elbaum,YouthWorks Curriculum and Content Manager, and the incredible work being done through the YouthWorks program. Hannah plays a pivotal role in ensuring that YouthWorks delivers meaningful employment experiences to young people across the state, helping them develop the skills they need to succeed in the workforce.

 Q: How long have you been with YouthWorks, and what’s your current role?  

A: I’ve been with YouthWorks for two years as the Curriculum and Content Manager. In this role, I ensure that the curriculum used by all our partners is relevant, up-to-date, and engaging for all YouthWorks participants. I leverage feedback from stakeholders across the state and analyze labor market data to keep the curriculum aligned with current needs.

Q: What inspired you to join YouthWorks, and how do you see the program influencing young people’s career paths?  

A: I was inspired to join YouthWorks because I believe it’s essential for young people to have the skills they need to embark on the career journey they choose, creating pathways for socioeconomic mobility. The program equips young people with tools to help them explore their options, make informed decisions, and be prepared for any opportunity. YouthWorks exposes participants to a variety of careers, helping them discover which path best matches their strengths, values, and aspirations.

Q: What’s one skill or value you hope every young person takes away from the YouthWorks program?  

A: I hope every young person leaves the program understanding that they are a leader in their own unique way and that they can develop strong leadership skills to guide their journey.

Q: Can you tell us about the Signal Success curriculum and how it helps prepare young people for their future careers?  

A: The Signal Success curriculum is designed to help young people build critical soft skills necessary for workplace success. Core skills like communication, teamwork, and leadership are foundational and transferable across any job or career. The curriculum provides practical takeaways that participants can immediately apply to their job placements, helping them to effectively navigate and thrive in their roles.

Q: What advice would you give someone starting out in their career? 
A: Learn to advocate for yourself early on! No one knows you better than you know yourself, so it’s important to voice your needs. Whether it’s related to your mental health, learning a new skill, mentorship, or anything else, practicing self-advocacy will help you succeed in your career and build your confidence. 
 

 About YouthWorks:

YouthWorks provides Massachusetts youth with paid work experiences and workforce development opportunities. The program operates year-round, serving participants from 14 to 25 years old, with a special focus on vulnerable populations. Through collaboration with MassHire and local partners, YouthWorks aims to reduce unemployment, increase career awareness, and empower the next generation of Massachusetts workers.

Skills Development: Building the Foundation for Success through YouthWorks 

  • Focus on Soft Skills Development: YouthWorks prioritizes soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability, which are crucial for career success. Employers increasingly value these skills alongside technical abilities.
 
  • Collaboration with Employers: YouthWorks collaborates with local employers to align the curriculum with industry needs, ensuring that the training participants receive is relevant and applicable.
 
  • Mentorship Opportunities: The program includes mentorship components, providing young people with guidance as they navigate their career exploration and development.
 
  • Career Pathway Exploration: YouthWorks not only offers job placements but also assists participants in exploring different career pathways, helping them identify their interests and strengths.
 
  • Community and Networking: The program fosters community among participants, leading to networking opportunities and enhancing social skills.
 

For more information about YouthWorks, visit commcorp.org/youthworks