Earn+Learn

The Issue

Summer employment programs have become critical pipelines to engage youth and put them on a path for career longevity or further education.

Our Impact

Every summer, 150 youth work at more than 50 businesses and non-profit organizations to learn critical employment skills. A first job often means so much more than a paycheck. It can mean a connection to a lifelong mentor, the ability to envision a career path, a boost in self-confidence, an appreciation for the value of education, an off-ramp from a life on the streets, a belief that you can be something.

Overview

GECAC's Earn+Learn program provides job readiness training, career exploration, and employment opportunities for youth living in Erie County. The program aims to expose youth and young adults to local industries and businesses that can absorb them as full-time employees.

Earn+Learn is a collaborative effort between the Erie County Government, Erie County Gaming and Revenue Authority, GECAC, and other supportive individuals and organizations that have recognized the need to address employability issues for our disconnected youth population aged 14-21 years old.

Timeline
May: Information sessions and applications available
May 17: Employer application deadline
May 31: Youth application deadline 
June 10: Work-ready training Erie
Pending: Work-ready training Corry
June - August: Youth will work 180 total hours

Job Placement/MatchingYouth are matched with employers based on employer specifications, geographic proximity, and availability of reliable transportation for youth.


 Pay Tier 1:
Typically, ages 14-17 with little or no job experience. We are paying $8.25 an hour.
Pay increases to $8.50 upon successful evaluation.
Will focus on job readiness training, soft skills, and work experience.

Pay Tier 2:
Typically, ages 16-21 with previous job experience or career-oriented. We are paying $10 an hour.
Pay increases to $10.50 upon successful evaluation.
Will focus on existing career opportunities in Erie County.

Informational Orientation SessionsInterested youth and employers will be invited to informational sessions to learn about available jobs, locations, placement potential, and required paperwork.
Staff SupportGECAC staff works directly with youth and employers to provide communication, linkage, and job placements, as well as to troubleshoot and problem-solve any challenges that arise during the summer.

Youth Participant (Employee)

Reside in Erie County
Age 14-21
The family income is within 250% of federal poverty guidelines

YOUTH APPLICATION 2024

To become an Earn+Learn youth participant, please complete the online application by May 31^st. At the end of the application, you will have the ability to schedule an appointment with the Earn+Learn staff to complete the rest of your application.

At your appointment please bring the following mandatory documents:

birth certificate
social security card
work permit
photo ID or school ID card
bank account information owned by the applicant (ex: voided check, direct deposit form from bank)

*If under 18, a parent or guardian is required to accompany you.

Business/Organization Participant (Employer)

Benefit to Employers

GECAC screens and trains the youth participating in the program and matches their skills and interests to a local business.
You help local youth learn valuable life skills and gain practical work experience.
You'll have an opportunity to see what local talent can offer and to introduce youth to potential career paths.
You'll be assigned a dedicated job site team advisor to ensure a successful experience for both you and the youth worker.

Pay Tier 1: