Teen Job Outlook in Eastern NC, Employment Help Available

By: Arthur Mondale | WNCT
Published: June 25, 2010

WASHINGTON, NC - Unemployment is not only about adults. Young people between the ages of 16 and 19 are still feeling the effects of the economy...and proving to be a challenge.

In fact, nationwide only one in four teens has a “summer job”.

Here in eastern Carolina 9OYS has learned while for some landing their first gig came easy...for others it still hasn't come.

Which is why in tough times--teens can't be too “choosey”.

"It took me all day and everyday---running back and forth looking for a job--and I finally got a job here at McDonald's and I'm hanging on to my job,” said Jacob Jones.

But contrary to popular belief, even fast-food joints aren't 100% guaranteed.

That's where Youth@Work steps in. It’s a statewide program under JobLink that finds employment for jobseekers 16 to 21. And the best part is, teens won't have to compete with older more qualified and experienced workers.

Youth@Work requires teens to start from scratch. Requiring them to attend weekly classes on job preparation courses. The overall goal is to actually chose careers they never thought could be possible.

And in careers that will still be available---even after the “summer”.

You can find more information about it on our website, use the key words: Teen Job Pool.