Takia Clarke, a rising sophomore at Eastside High School, and Damadray Brunson, a recent graduate, spent five weeks this summer learning about the workforce as part of the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) In-School Youth Program. Working as aides at the Newton County Library gave them practical experience in interacting with the public and with co-workers.

Administered by the Northeast Georgia Regional Commission under the oversight of the Northeast Georgia Workforce Investment Board, the program is open to students in Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Greene, Jackson, Jasper, Madison, Morgan, Newton, Oconee, Oglethorpe and Walton counties. Participants must meet income eligibility requirements and have at least one other challenge, such as not being on schedule to graduate on time or being basic-skills deficient.

Throughout the 12-county area, some 172 young participants worked in local government, non-profit agencies and some private sector businesses this summer. Working for up to five weeks and up to 30 hours per week, they were paid minimum wage through the WIA.

The program, administered by Action, Inc., continues throughout the school year as students work with case managers who ensure they are on track with grades, attendance and behavior at school.

The students also attend workshops on money management, leadership, work skills and career pathways.

The WIA is accepting referrals for its fall program.

For more details, contact the Northeast Georgia Regional Commission’s Workforce Development division at (706) 369-5703.