Parents of past student participants say:
"A HUGE thank you for all your work getting our son connected/applying/interviewing with a position! He’s not an overly outgoing kid, a little more introverted and reticent, and finding a job that fit him seemed a little challenging to me, so your help was so appreciated. And we are so excited about the experience and the career exposure/exploration, plus the communication and other skills he’s getting, wow, what a great program, thank you!!"
“Thank you for all your work with the summer jobs program and placing [my son]. He enjoyed working with the staff and the residents at Touchmark. His summer job was a great experience for him. “
“I saw her confidence blossom over the summer. This program was just so great for her.”
"I just wanted to thank you for all you do for this program. It is great and [my daughter] has had a great experience with her position."
"The summer internship for my son was great. I feel it has been a positive experience and he is getting excited about college next year. Thank you."
"AJAY Montana has created and fostered strong relationships with local businesses which has greatly improved and supported my kid's summer job experience."
How can my child participate in the Summer Jobs Program?
Go to the student page to apply!
Why should my child participate in the Summer Jobs Program?
Research shows that summer jobs and early work experience provides many benefits for teens ages 16-19.
Through summer jobs, youth:
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Explore career options and build career goals
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Build 21st century skills that help them succeed in high school, college, work, and life
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Communication
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Problem-solving
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Teamwork
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Time management
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Grow their self-confidence
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Develop personal skills and talents
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Demonstrate to college admissions offices their willingness to explore their interests and ability to manage responsibilities
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Build relationships with role models at work
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Earn money, which can contribute to personal, family, or college expenses
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Gain a job reference to help them secure their next job
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Build connections that will help them access job opportunities in the future
Research also shows that youth with summer jobs are more likely than their non-working peers to:
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Graduate high school
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Create time management strategies that persist through college
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Effectively balance school and work responsibilities during college
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Earn higher wages as a young adult
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Work in a higher-quality job as a young adult
Finally, evidence suggests that students with a mentor are more likely to:
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Perform better in school and at work
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Enroll in college
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Hold positive attitudes toward education and work
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Maintain positive social relationships
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Explore career options and build personal goals