Explore Tools to Help Find Your Future Path

ELEVATE Youth

A job exploration program helping youth with disabilities identify their career interests, connect with employers, gain experience and create a plan for next steps.

  • Identify interests and strengths through various assessments, online tools, and discussions about in-demand occupations and the skills required. 
  • Explore careers with hands-on exposure to a variety of occupations through immersive virtual reality learning experiences.
  • Connect with employers for industry tours, job shadows, informational interviews, networking events with local employers.
  • Paid work-based learning experiences and development of an individualized work experience plan.
  • Meet regularly to receive feedback on work performance. Develop soft skills connected to employment opportunities and career development plan.

Student Career & College Navigation

The transition from youth to adulthood is critical for young adults and support is available for students with disabilities. GESMN helps students ages 14-21 with disabilities gain experience to inform career decisions.

Student Career Services

  • Job exploration and job shadowing
  • Workplace readiness training
  • Job-seeking skills and self-advocacy
  • Work-based learning
  • Informational interviews
  • Workplace tours and field trips
  • Postsecondary educational counseling

College Navigation

  • Individualized services to ensure students can successfully explore, enroll and progress through college programs
  • Explore goals and interests in the context of college
  • Receive assistance with planning, applications, scholarships and financial aid processes 
  • Prepare for a successful academic experience
  • Support with campus resources and connections
  • Individual meetings to facilitate growth and independence

For information contact:

YouthBuild

YouthBuild offers hands-on, no cost training in construction or automotive while earning a GED or diploma. Students earn money while accomplishing goals and learn critical job skills to build a bright future.​​​​​​ There are more than 225 YouthBuild programs in the U.S. that have participated in building 17,000 units of affordable housing. This program is funded by the Department of Labor.

Requirements:

  • Ages 16–24 who are unenrolled in school
  • Earn a high school diploma/GED, while gaining construction, automotive credentials and leadership skills
  • Classroom and hands-on shop training with an instructor, career navigator and peers
  • Receive assistance preparing and applying for jobs
  • Stipends and bonuses available
  • Classes are Monday–Friday, hours vary

Call or text 612-424-1050 or complete the YouthBuild interest form.

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Youth Heading Home

Employment services are provided at the Youth Opportunity Center, which offers multiple on-site services for youth looking for housing.

Services

  • Individualized job support
  • Paid work experience
  • Career trainings