Empowering Teens Through Summer Work: The YES! Program Returns

Paid Opportunity Offers Job Skills, Mentorship, and More

As summer approaches, many families are exploring ways to keep teens engaged and productive during the break. One standout option is the Youth Empowered to Serve (YES!) program — a paid summer initiative designed for local youth ages 14 to 18.

Offered through the Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County, and supported by a variety of local partner worksites — including the Iowa City Public Library, Grow Johnson County, the Bike Library, Johnson County Conservation, and more — the YES! program provides teens with hands-on work experience, job training, and mentorship — all while earning a paycheck.

A Program with Purpose
Participants in the YES! program will spend the summer working at sites throughout the community, including the Iowa City Public Library, Grow Johnson County, and the Bike Library. Along the way, they will gain valuable life skills and build meaningful relationships with mentors who guide them through the ins and outs of professional life.
Key program highlights include:

• Real-World Job Experience
• Teens are placed in supportive, team-based job settings where they can build confidence and explore potential career interests.
• Mentorship and Skill Development
• From workplace basics to financial literacy, trained mentors provide one-on-one support to help teens grow both personally and professionally.
• Career Readiness and Beyond
• Graduates leave the program with references, work experience, and even potential job leads for the future.
• No Cost to Families
• Thanks to grant funding, there is no cost to participate. Teens are paid weekly for their work.
• The 2025 program runs from June 17 through August 8. Interested teens must apply by the deadline of May 9.

For more information or to apply, visit the YES! Program website.

Inquiries can be directed to Lauren Willberg at lauren-willberg@ncjc.org or by phone at 319-354-2886.