Are there jobs available working with young people?

YES, community centers, after school programs, mental health agencies, juvenile justice agencies and other types of agencies are always looking for good people.

The more important question to ask yourself “Is youth work the right career for me?” Working with young people can be stressful, but if you have the aptitude it can also be very rewarding. I have been working with young people since the 1980’s and if I had a chance to live my life over again I would choose the same career.

There are hundreds of youth programs in the region who employ thousands of youth workers including after school programs, family centers, schools, community centers, mental health agencies, juvenile justice facilities, recreation centers, YMCA’s, Boys and Girls Clubs etc.

The more education the better

Agencies will frequently hire front-line entry level youth workers without any college. However, opportunities for advancement are limited without college. Salary in this field is also very dependent on education. The program here at CCP will allow you to earn a Certificate, an Associate’s and transfer to a four-year college if you desire.

However, finding the right job may take some legwork.

Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Write a resume (the career services center here at the College can help you polish your resume). Your tuition pays for the center so you might as well use it!

2. Write some practice cover letters. If you see a specific opening you can write a specific letter (e.g. I am writing regarding the advertisement I saw for a Youth Care Worker in your adolescent program.)

OR

You can write a more general letter (e.g. I am seeking a position working with young people where I can have a positive impact on their lives.)

3. Also, to work with children in Pennsylvania you need criminal history clearance and child abuse history clearance…for more about these clearances and eligibility click here.