Passport to Work
The Department of Employment Services (DOES) Office of Youth Programs (OYP) provides a variety of training opportunities to District of Columbia youth (ages 14 to 24) to equip them with the necessary skills to successfully compete in the labor market. These training opportunities are available through the OYP umbrella program known as the “Passport-to-Work Program.”
The Passport-to-Work Program is an innovative year-round program that focuses on enhancing the lives of youth to become and continue to be productive District residents as well as citizens in this country. The services are geared toward enhancing the educational, vocational, and basic skill levels of youth via academic enrichment, employability and occupational skills training, leadership development, life skills training, career awareness, and paid and non-paid work experience. The Passport-to-Work Program provides a variety of training opportunities and supportive services via the 1) In-School Youth Program; 2) Out-of-School Youth Program; 3) Summer Youth Employment Program; 4) Mayor’s Youth Leadership Institute; and 5) Federal/Private Sector Initiative.
Youth Services
In-School Program
The In-School Program provides academic enrichment activities, work-readiness skills, project based learning, life skills and leadership development. The goal of the program is to help prepare District youth to successfully transition from high school into post-secondary education, advanced training, unsubsidized employment, or a career in the military. During the school year, youth ages 14 to 18 will have the opportunity to participate in the In-School Program. To be eligible, youth must be a District resident and in grades 9 through 12. In-School Program participants will remain in this program until graduating from high school and will receive follow up services.
The application process includes submitting all required eligibility documents and completing the CASAS assessment.
Out-of-School Program
The Out-of-School Program provides skills workshops, career awareness and work readiness modules, basic education, GED preparation and basic computer training, as well as vocational skills training. Training is provided in the following areas: Construction Trades, Emergency Medical Technology, Hospitality, Education, and Information Technology, including Website Development. This is a year round program that serves young adults, ages 16 to 24, who are no longer attending secondary or post-secondary school. It is a training vehicle that assists youth in achieving short and long term educational and employability goals through relevant occupational skills training and guidance.
2009 Summer Youth Program
The Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) provides an array of summer enrichment experiences that consists of Arts, Design and Media, Building and Grounds Maintenance, Community and Social Services, Construction Trades, Education, Training and Library Science, Health Care Support, Hospitality and Tourism, Office and Administration Support and Sports and Physical Education. This short term employment and training program allows thousands of District youth ages 14 to 21 an opportunity to gain practical experience while being paid the federal minimum wage.
Mayor's Youth Leadership Institute (MYLI)
The Mayor’s Youth Leadership Institute (MYLI) is a four-level competitive youth leadership training and development program for District youth ages 14 to19. The MYLI training model emphasizes practical experiences in developing leaders of the 21st century. The MYLI is structured into four levels:
- The Alpha level focuses on personal growth and development skills.
- The Beta level focuses on community development.
- The Delta level focuses on work readiness skills, life skills, and career exploration.
- The Omega level places Youth Leaders in internships
Recruitment for the MYLI Summer Training Program occurs annually in the spring. Applicants undergo a rigorous screening process prior to being selected. The MYLI Summer Training Program is based at a local college campus and offers young leaders the opportunity to attend training seminars and workshops, participate in youth government elections, cultural events, and issues forums where they serve as guest speakers.
The MYLI In-School component focuses on helping the youth leader utilize the skills acquired during the summer, as well as providing activities that will enhance their basic education and career awareness. Such activities include internships, community service projects, civic meetings and youth-related forums.
Private Sector Initiative Program (PSIP)
Private Sector Initiative Program (PSIP) is a year-round program servicing DC Residents (18-24, during the year) and (16-21, during the summer component) During the summer, youth must register first with the Passport to work summer program and then have receipt and updated resume to apply for a position though the private sector. For those interested in year-round positions, please bring a current resume, cover letter and photo ID to 625 H Street NE, Washington DC and ask to see a PSIP Team member. Please be advised that positions through the PSIP are competitive and not guaranteed.
DC Department of Employment Services
Office of Youth Programs
625 H Street, NE
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 698-3492 or (202) 698-5242
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