Summer Youth Program 

 

Summer Youth Program Returns in 2026

 

The popular Summer Youth Program has returned. This free program supports young adults aged 16 to 25 who are eager to develop both work and soft skills. Participants are paired with a Goodwill Career Advisor who will help them create a personalized employment plan, find job leads, craft a résumé, prepare for interviews, and secure employment. Additionally, students have the option to enroll in Goodwill’s Job Readiness Program, which includes a certificate for completing our Exceptional Customer Service, Workplace Communication, Conflict Resolution, and Bank of America’s Financial Literacy workshops. To learn more or to participate, students can make an appointment with a Career Advisor by visiting sdgoodwill.org or stopping by any of our six Goodwill Community Employment Centers located throughout San Diego County.

 

 

Investing in our youth and helping them gain meaningful work experience

Currently, San Diego County’s unemployment rate stands at 4.0 percent, according to the Employment Development Department (EDD). This figure encompasses individuals aged 16 and older who are not working yet are able, available, and actively seeking work. Goodwill San Diego launched the Summer Youth Program in the summer of 2022, serving 131 young adults. In 2023, we increased our impact, serving 156 participants, and 72 last year. “We believe that investing in our youth and helping them gain meaningful work experience and a pathway to self-sufficiency is vital,” said Fabia Parkinson, Vice President of Human Services. “Our Center’s Career Advisors have established strong relationships with local employers and can connect youth to job opportunities at Goodwill San Diego and other organizations in the community.” In addition to working with a Goodwill Career Advisor and participating in the Job Readiness Program, students can also take part in Bank of America’s Better Money Habits workshops, designed by the bank’s financial experts. These workshops teach participants how to budget, save, and manage their money. Upon completing the coursework, students receive a certificate of completion indicating their readiness for the workplace. Those who finish the full program will be encouraged to apply for available part-time positions at Goodwill San Diego and with other local employers. Career Advisors will remain actively involved in assisting program participants in gaining valuable work experience.
 

Contact

For more information on the Summer Youth Program, please visit your nearest Goodwill Community Employment Center or schedule an appointment to meet online.