POC accepting applications for the Youth Development Program

ST. PETERSBURG — Pinellas Opportunity Council (POC) Inc. proudly presents its countywide 2016 Youth Development Program (YDP). This program provides youth an opportunity to participate in summer pre-employment training and skills development for six weeks.

Students presently enrolled in grades 9-12, between the ages of 14 – 17 and have at least a 2.5 GPA, will gain employability skills, valuable work experience and career exploration. Income eligibility requirements apply. The program emphasizes quality jobs and quality students. Students will also participate in a field trip to explore business and training opportunities.

The YDP will begin June 13 and end July 22 with a recognition ceremony to be held on July 25. Applications are currently available at www.poc-inc.org, or can be obtained from POC service office staff at the Enoch Davis Center, 1111 18th Ave. S, St. Petersburg; the Tarpon Springs Center, 301 S. Disston Avenue, Tarpon Springs; and the POC administration office, 501 1st Ave. N., Suite 517, St. Petersburg.

All applications must be completed and submitted by April 29. Students will receive a monetary incentive of $600 for the successful completion of the program.

POC will collaborate with the business community to provide part-time employment opportunities for the youth, with no cost to the employers. We are seeking business and community partners to provide part-time employment opportunities for students participating in the program.

Please contact Frances Cato at (727 -823-4101 ext. 115 or fcato@poc-inc.org if you are interested in providing a job placement for a student or have any other questions in reference to the YDP.