Workforce Pathways Program Launched To Empower Contra Costa Youth

WALNUT CREEK, CA — Junior Achievement of Northern California, which has an office in Walnut Creek, announced the launch this week of a program designed to equip young people 16 to 21 in Contra Costa and Fresno counties with essential skills and resources for a successful career.

The Workforce Pathways program aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by providing hands-on coaching, mentorship and real-world experiences. This initiative will help local youth develop critical skills, including:

• Resume writing
• Interview preparation
• Professional networking
• Communication skills
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Financial literacy
• Problem-solving abilities

"Every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed," said Cristene Burr, CEO of JA NorCal, which was founded in 1950 as part of Junior Achievement Worldwide. "With the Workforce Pathways program, we are committed to empowering our youth with the tools they need to navigate their futures and become leaders in their communities."

The program features workshops, internships and job shadowing opportunities, connecting students with local businesses and organizations. The organization said that fostering these relationships aims to create a supportive network that enhances career readiness.

Junior Achievement Worldwide has operated for over a century in areas with political instability, violence and war, helping youth build entrepreneurship skills and economic resilience. The organization aims to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy. For the third year in a row, JA has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.

In addition to its Bay Area office at Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek, Junior Achievement has offices in Sacramento, Los Angeles and San Diego.

In Northern California, JA programs are delivered to youth 5-25 years old by corporate and community volunteers. Residents of the targeted cities are encouraged to get involved as participants, volunteers, or business partners. The hope is that working together will have a positive impact on local youth.