Explore Tools to Help Find Your Future Path

ELEVATE Youth

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

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.

  • Ages 16–24 who are unenrolled in school
  • Eligible to work in the U.S. (proof of identity and SSN)
  • Willing and able to attend class every day and participate in all parts of the program

  • Education: Earn your high school diploma or GED in a fun, hands-on, individualized environment.  Earn industry credentials and certificates.
  • Automotive or Construction: Learn maintenance, engine lubrications, cooling systems, tires, belts, brakes, and multi-point inspections in our automotive shop. Or learn hand and power tool use, framing, drywall, siding, roofing and deconstruction in our construction shop.
  • Leadership: Explore career interests and personal values, set and achieve goals, learn the job skills needed to build a better future.
  • Community Involvement: Build affordable housing and volunteer in your community.
  • Resources: Help with work clothes, tools, transportation, driver’s education and more. Stipend and bonus checks paid weekly.

  • Training hours: Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • Training available at NO COST to eligible students.
  • Receive support in reaching your goals every step of the way.

This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it.

Learn more and apply

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

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Youth Heading Home

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