Jon Dowding learns more about youth career opportunities in Philadelphia from two guests from Temple University’s Center for Social Policy & Community Development. The center has existed for 50 years and continues to serve communities in Philadelphia, especially those surrounding Temple’s campus. Recently, the Center has been helping connect youth ages 14-18 years old to their first summer employment opportunity, giving them work experience and helping them to explore their interests.

Kaniesha Thomas is the Program Director for the youth employment project, which helps 17-24 year olds transition to post-secondary education, employment, or advanced training. The project also provides career awareness and career readiness to help young adults choose a career and find the steps that will get them there. Michael Clemmons is the Associate Director for workforce development. He identifies projects that will benefit the community and oversees work development programs, including the youth employment project and two other new youth programs–– one that provides work experience for 14-18 year olds and another that helps youth who are aging out of foster care.