The City of Dallas and Dallas Independent School District say the program launched last year to connect students with local employers will be expanded this year. In its first year, "Dallas Works" found summer jobs for 465 teenagers and young adults.
"This employment would teach kids across our city useful, real-world skills and allow them to explore different career paths and let them earn some money," says Mayor Eric Johnson.
This year, the program will expand, with Johnson saying COVID-19 limited opportunities in 2020.
"We always knew it would take time to scale up Dallas Works, and this year we're expanding our efforts," Johnson says. "We're going to match what other major cities have been doing with their programs."
This year, the program will not be limited to high school students. Teenagers and young adults between the ages of 15 and 24 can apply for the program in 2021.
"Dallas is a city of dreamers of all ages," Johnson says. "It is critical to me that we help as many young people as we can to achieve their dreams."
"This will connect what students learn in the classroom to the real world," says Dale Petroskey, president and chief executive officer of the Dallas Regional Chamber. "And help more students see with their own two eyes what types of jobs and careers are out there and are possible for them."
Petroskey says the region must continue investing in schools to ensure kids graduate with a skill that will be valuable to local companies.
"As we work to attract companies, we always want to put our best foot forward," he says. "One advantage we have here in the Dallas region is our education and workforce training programs. Our companies know, in order to grow and thrive, they need to access a talent pool that can meet the challenges of today and tomorrow."
"Dallas Works" is the successor to the "Dallas Mayor's Intern Fellows Program." Dallas ISD Assistant Superintendent Usamah Rodgers says Dallas Works can help young people understand opportunities that are available.
"It's often difficult to imagine yourself doing something or seeing something that you have not touched or experienced," she says.
Information about who is eligible and how to apply for Dallas Works is available at dallassummerjobs.org.
Rodgers says applicants must be in school and will be contacted based on their GPA and recommendations. Applicants will then be invited to a job fair.
