Local partnerships are assisting youth transition to employment.

GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA, March 3, 2014 – The Greenville REC’s Personal Pathways to Success, SC Works Greenville, and the Transitional Jobs Committee of the Greenville County Workforce Investment Board’s Youth Council are hosting a Conference for youth and young adults who have a barrier to employment. The purpose of the 2014 conference is to better prepare youth and young adults with the skills they need for employment success.

The theme this year is a Formula for Employment Success, E2=O2, Explore Options Expand Opportunity. The first part of the conference is a two-day event that will be held at the Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center on June 11th and 12th. The focus for part one is providing the skills needed to explore employment options… finding a job, getting a job, and keeping a job. Part one will also include a Resource Fair, introducing participants to support and resources available within the community, and a Job Fair, introducing participants to local employers willing to hire youth and young adults who may have barriers to employment. The second part of the conference will be held in partnership with Black Pages USA during Black Expo at the TD Center on Saturday, August 2nd. The focus for part two is encouraging participants to expand opportunities through continued education. Local colleges and educational institutions will also be available to provide financial aid and course information to participants.

According to Youth Council Coordinator Jay Blankenship, “This year’s theme focuses on an overall formula for employment success. Young adults no longer have to choose between getting a paycheck and furthering their education. Our conference encourages doing both! We want to give these young adults the tools they need to achieve their full potential.” Studies show that young adults are able to advance much quicker in their careers and earn a larger paycheck if they have a minimum of a two-year degree. “If someone in our targeted age group begins taking even a few courses each year, they will be surprised at how quickly they will obtain a degree and advance in their career,” explains Blankenship.

The Conference is open to all upstate Youth, ages 17-24, who have struggled transitioning to employment. There is no charge for participation, and lunch will be provided. Space is limited to the first

300 participants. Interested youth and young adults are encouraged to register by May 16th. Community partners and organizations are encouraged to refer and possibly sponsor youth. Anyone interested in a full sponsorship package should contact John Tully at 864-751-4808.

To learn more about the 2014 Youth and Young Adult Conference or to register for the event, please contact Elayne Gray at 864-467-3620.