To address this need, Representatives Harder (D-CA) and Fitzpatrick (R-PA) have re-introduced the Youth Workforce Readiness Act (H.R. 2910) to increase access and opportunities for youth ages 6-18 to receive education and training through after-school programs focused on preparing them to enter and thrive in the workforce. The bill was re-introduced in the House last Spring, but has not been re-introduced in the Senate yet. 

This critical investment in our nation's youth supports the mentoring and workforce development goals of BBBS. Specifically, the bill would establish a competitive grant program for national out-of-school time organizations like BBBS to fund a variety of workforce readiness and development activities, including: essential-skills development, leadership development, adult mentoring, job training, entrepreneurial skills building, and financial literacy education.

Please reach out to your U.S. Representative to urge him/her to co-sponsor the Youth Workforce Readiness Act so that youth of all ages can gain the skills needed to enter and thrive in whatever profession they choose.