The City of Sacramento’s Office of Youth Development is looking to increase partnerships with youth-serving community-based organizations this summer.
Along with PRO Youth & Families and its Youth & Family Collective, the City has released a request for proposals that will provide funding to more than double the number of youth-participant slots traditionally offered through the #SacYouthWorks (#SYW) summer program.
Youth & Family Collective will lead the recruitment of a citywide network of youth-serving community-based organizations to engage youth cohorts ages 14 -19 in a nine-week, paid, work-based learning experience from July 1 through Sept. 5.
Partners will receive program and administrative-support funding to connect youth to trusted peers and adults, increase work-based learning skills, create pathways to career opportunities and engage youth to address community needs.
Since July 2020, #SacYouthWorks has provided almost 2,000 youth with paid opportunities to learn practical skills, serve their community and explore career goals.
“Now more than ever, youth need productive safe spaces to learn, connect and have fun this summer,” said Lindee Lane, youth development policy manager for the City. “The RFP includes additional funding to support #SYW partners with planning and hosting a series of #SummerInRealLife youth-oriented events that will take place across priority neighborhoods on weekend evenings.”
In addition to funding for larger-scale events, other enhancements include connecting youth participants to career exploration and exposure to high-demand jobs and a track specifically focused on youth mental health.
Applications are due online by June 21 at 5 p.m.
Two Zoom information sessions for CBOs on the RFP and application process will be held on Friday, June 9 at 9:30 a.m. and Tuesday, June 14 at 1 p.m. Registration is required.