Career TREK

What does the CareerTREK Program offer?

The purpose of our program is to help qualified, low income youth develop a career plan that helps over come existing barriers, prepares them academically/vocationally for a career path and provides training and assistance in finding and keeping employment. Youth who have the desire work achieve their goals and are willing to follow their plan, will be successful in the CareerTREK program.

The program case managers provides youth with assessment of basic educational levels, career interests, abilities, and assists youth to develop a career plan, complete a high school diploma / GED or higher educational degree/certificates that will provide the training for entering the labor market. Case managers provide services to support the youth, including emergency support services funds, workshops on life skills (budgeting, conflict resolution, decision making, etc, and employment workshops (resume writing, job search, interviewing,, job keeping etc) that will support the youth transition into a successful lifestyle.

What are the eligibility requirements to be in the program?

• Meet Low-income qualifications, 70% of the federal poverty level,
• Have a need for assistance such as: lack work experience, English as a Second Language, behind in credits to graduate, school drop out, offender, in foster care, young parent, family conflict etc.
• Have the desire to gain educational qualifications that meet their individual career goals.
• Provide eligibility documentation: including birth certificate, social security card, proof of income, proof of address, etc.
  

Case Management Services provided

We offer eligible youth assessment of their strengths and barriers to being successful in the workplace. In addition, we will help students develop a plan for after graduation; assist students apply and find financial aid for higher education, enter the military or begin their work career.

Each youth will complete an Individual Service Plan, and may access any of the following services: Paid Work Experience, Limited Internship, Life Skill Work Shops, GED, Job Search/Job Club, Counseling, Tutoring, Alternative School Services, Support Services, Job Shadowing, Occupational Skill Training, Mentoring, Leadership Development and Follow Up.

How do know if I am low income?

Phone (360) 943-0780 and speak with any of the CareerTREK case managers, at extensions, 157, 153, 168 or 189. They will discuss your individual financial situation to determine if your income eligibility.

Application Packet Process

• Phone the CareerTREK program and speak to a case manager about your financial eligibility. See phone numbers above
• Complete the CareerTREK Assessment sheet and submit to CareerTREK program, 711 State Ave NE, Olympia, WA 98503
• Schedule an interview with CareerTREK staff
• Bring all required documentation on Eligibility form to the interview appointment .
• Note: Acceptance into the CareerTREK program depends on your needs; meeting required eligibility, submitting required documentation; available funding and your motivation to participate in the program.

Funding Source

The CareerTREK scholarship is program of Community Youth Services, funded through the federal Workforce Investment Act. Funds are made available through the Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Relay Service number 1 (800) 833-6388. CYS is an EEO.