Problem:  Many low-income teens are unable to escape poverty 
without some sort of helping hand.  Many programs have been 
developed to address this problem, but not all are successful at 
preparing participants for successful entry into the work force.

Proposed Solution:  The Work Force program in Cambridge, MA tries 
to take a slightly different approach from that used by other 
programs.  It has a focus on employment, but starts working with 
people as young as thirteen; to be closer to the teens, it is 
located in the public housing projects.  The program requires 
school attendance, offers additional classes and work experience, 
and also provides fun experiences.  Over the course of the 
program, the teens have help in focusing their interests and 
abilities to choose a career path.  Adults in the community and in 
the family are involved to provide a support network for the 
participants.  

Evaluation:  The program has so far been successful.  Support from 
the schools and the employers has been strong; participants have a 
fairly low drop out rate and are developing the necessary 
attitudes and skills to find employment.

Contact:  Steven J. Swanger, Director of Tenant Services, 270 
Green St, Cambridge, MA 02139.

Citation:  "Innovations in State and Local Government 1990."  New 
York:  The Ford Foundation, 1990.  pp 10-11.

Keywords:  poverty unemployment job training teenagers

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