Youth Engagement Initiative: Vision & Mission

The Youth Engagement Initiative envisions a more dynamic economy with opportunities and clear pathways for local youth and families to find livable wage jobs in local businesses and industries. With a mission to work in partnership with employers, educators, and like-minded organizations to create synergies that advance youth employment and career opportunities in Whatcom County. In simple terms—The WBA, through the Youth Engagement Initiative, will help facilitate collaboration and coordination between K-12 and colleges with employers. WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW and learn about what the Youth Engagement Initiative is about.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XuOnBlmhJro

Site Map: Click the links below to discover more info on the Youth Engagement Initiative.

YEI HISTORY: How did the YEI come to fruition?

CONNECT & SUPPORT: Contact us to Get involved.

STAY INFORMED: Sign up for our YEI Newsletter.

NEWSFEED: News & trends across the State and Nation on Career and Workforce Development for youth.

JA JOB SHADOW PROGRAM: Become a Job Site Host or sign up for the JA Curriculum.

VIDEO ENGAGEMENT: Watch Videos about the Job Shadow program, What makes a Good Employee & Local Entrepreneurs.

STRATEGIC GOALS & METRICS: Powerpoint presentation deliverable that describes Youth Engagement Initiative the Strategic Plan.

 

WBA Youth Engagement Initiative:

  • Establishes better business ties with young people in Whatcom County
  • Creates a hub to offer job information and employement oppurtunities
  • Unifies efforts with employers, like-minded groups and educators
  • Identifies pathways for students and young adults to transition to careers and family wage jobs
  • Develops synergistic relationships between educators and employers
  • Enhances student, parent, community awareness of pathways to local employement opportunities
  • Provides youth with real-time, hands-on workplace experiences, opportunities and internships
  • Assists in workforce development for Whatcom County business and industry
  • Collaborates with existing organizations and stakeholders to avoid redundancy