Applications now accepted for STEP-UP summer youth employment program

The City of Minneapolis youth employment program STEP-UP is now accepting applications for 2016 summer interns. Eligible Minneapolis youths ages 14-21 who are interested in participating in the 2016 STEP-UP class have until Feb. 5, 2016, to complete an application online.

STEP-UP is one of the country’s premiere youth employment programs, serving Minneapolis youths who face some of the greatest barriers to employment. This includes youths from disadvantaged economic backgrounds, youths of color, youths from recent immigrant families, and youths with disabilities. In addition to summer jobs with more than 230 top Twin Cities companies, nonprofits and public agencies, STEP-UP also offers work readiness training, advanced-level internships and industry-specific career opportunities that help interns integrate their career exposure with post-secondary education and career planning.

Prior to being placed in their internships, youths receive work readiness training certified by the Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce that prepares them for a professional work environment. Returning interns receive advanced training that helps them deepen their professional skills. Throughout their internships, they gain valuable on-the-job skills, make strong professional connections, and become exposed to careers they may have not otherwise accessed without STEP-UP.

Since the program was launched in 2004, it has provided more than 21,000 internship opportunities. In 2015, STEP-UP placed more than 1,600 Minneapolis youths in jobs with more than 200 businesses, public agencies and nonprofits. The 2015 class held 91 percent youths of color, 40 percent youths from recent immigrant families, and 12 percent youths with disabilities or other significant barriers to employment. Representing 38 different languages from around the world, 30 percent of the class spoke fluently in languages besides English.

Businesses, public agencies and nonprofits interested in employing interns in 2016 can find information on the City of Minneapolis STEP-UP website.

STEP-UP is a City of Minneapolis program in partnership with AchieveMpls, the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, and Project for Pride in Living.

To learn more about STEP-UP or to access the online STEP-UP application, visit the City of Minneapolis website.