Philadelphia Job Corps collaborates with Youth Service America (YSA) in a networking initiative to engage, share and provide on-going quality service to young adults.  Philadelphia Job Corps students and staff were in rare form today preparing a “show and tell” of sharing for their special visitors.   “…Are they here yet?” echoed in the school corridors from students while engaged in setting up their career trade stations for the just right visual; adjusting a chair, table, equipment or trade materials for the perfect display.  Culinary Arts student treats filled the air with irresistible appetizing aromas of cooking chocolate; assorted hot baked goods; mini-sandwich delights; Nursing Assistant students were ready to check a willing volunteer Blood Pressure; Facility Maintenance students had the light units timed intermittent on/off. EMT students demonstrated a rescue with a volunteer. Also, center staff presentations were energized, detailed and interactive. The student produced award winning informational video provided a skillful snapshot of all trades, handouts were just enough to share about Job Corps program offerings.  YSA supports a global culture of engaged youth committed to a lifetime of service, learning, leadership, and achievement, held their eighth annual Youth Service Institute (YSI) event in Philadelphia.

YSI participants on behalf of Youth Service America come together to be inspired and network with others in the youth engagement field, share best practices and great ideas, and learn how to implement high quality service and service-learning programs. 

Eagerly, YSI participants observed with interest to learn more about Job Corps, the longest running residential training program. Lots of questions were asked from enrollment screening, drug testing, background checks, credentialing to job placement and follow up etc.  The Philadelphia Job Corps students proudly explained step by step their training interest, internship and learning experience, answering questions especially how Job Corps has helped guide them through what often appears to be a maze of decisions toward a career and success. 

“Everyone in our group agreed that Philadelphia Job Corp is one CLASS ACT: Every member of our team left with enthusiasm to return home and engage their local Job Corps site”.
   -Karen L. Daniel, Vice President, Engagement, Youth Service America

YSI participants were represented by teachers, volunteer coordinators, nonprofit leaders, and corporate representatives who together, engage hundreds of thousands of children and youth across the U.S. in service and service-learning initiatives.