U.S. Department of Labor Awards $12.3M to Support Youth Job Development

The U.S. Department of Labor announced the award of US$12.3 million in grants to five national out-of-school time organizations to expand local work readiness programs. In their press release, the Labor Department stated, “The second round of Workforce Pathways for Youth grants will support programs that provide jobs skills and training, and offer work experiences for young people from age 14 to 21.” 

For the cleaning industry, these grants provide guidance for a new generation of cleaning professionals ready to begin work at an earlier age and still adhere to industry health and safety standards accordingly. The grants will help expose young people to career possibilities and provide education, training, supportive services, and work experience to better prepare young adults for careers, including cleaning and maintenance positions. 

Currently, the locations receiving the grants include Los Angeles, Washington D.C., Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia. For cleaning leaders in these regions, becoming involved in these programs is a great way to ensure the best and brightest young employees join your team as the new generation enters the workforce.