Earn+Learn
The Issue
Summer employment programs have become critical pipelines to engage youth and put them on a path for career longevity or further education.
Our Impact
Every summer, 150 youth work at more than 50 businesses and non-profit organizations to learn critical employment skills. A first job often means so much more than a paycheck. It can mean a connection to a lifelong mentor, the ability to envision a career path, a boost in self-confidence, an appreciation for the value of education, an off-ramp from a life on the streets, a belief that you can be something.
Overview
GECAC's Earn+Learn program provides job readiness training, career exploration, and employment opportunities for youth living in Erie County. The program aims to expose youth and young adults to local industries and businesses that can absorb them as full-time employees.
Earn+Learn is a collaborative effort between the Erie County Government, Erie County Gaming and Revenue Authority, GECAC, and other supportive individuals and organizations that have recognized the need to address employability issues for our disconnected youth population aged 14-21.
Job Placement/Matching: Youth are matched with employers based on employer specifications, geographic proximity, and availability of reliable transportation for youth.
Staff Support: GECAC staff works directly with youth and employers to provide communication, linkage, and job placements, as well as to troubleshoot and problem-solve any challenges that arise during the summer.
Program Timeline:
April 10 or 11 Employer Virtual Information Session
May 16 Youth Applications Due
May 22 or 23 Employer Orientation
May 30 Employer Applications Due
June 9 or 10 Youth Orientation
July 14 Earned It Training: Corry, Union City, Wattsburg
July 15 Earned It Training: Erie
August 4 Summer Program Ends
August 7 Earned It: Awards Celebration
Youth Participant (Employee)
How To Apply
- Reside in Erie County
- Aged 14-21
- The family income is within 250% of federal poverty guidelines
To become an Earn+Learn youth participant, please complete the online application by May 16th.
At the end of the application, you can schedule an appointment with the Earn+Learn staff to complete the rest of your application.
At your appointment, please bring the following mandatory documents:
- birth certificate
- social security card
- work permit
- photo ID or school ID card
- bank account information owned by the applicant (ex: voided check, direct deposit form from bank)
*If under 18, a parent or guardian is required to accompany you.
Orientation
Interested youth will be invited to an orientation to learn about available jobs, locations, placement potential, and required paperwork.
Erie
Date: June 9
Location: TBD
Registration: 8 - 8:30 AM
Orientation: 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Erie
Date: June 10
Location: TBD
Registration: 8 - 8:30 AM
Orientation: 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Corry, Union City, Wattsburg
Date: June 10
Location: TBD
Registration: 2:30 PM - 3 PM
Orientation: 3 - 5 PM
Youth Pay
Tier 1:
- Typically, ages 14-17 with little or no job experience.
- $10/hour (180 hours total)
- Focus on job readiness training, soft skills, and work experience.
Tier 2:
- Typically, ages 16-21 with previous job experience or career-oriented.
- $12/hour (180 hours total)
- Focus on existing career opportunities in Erie County.
Business/Organization Participant (Employer)
How To Apply
Please complete the Employer Application by May 30th.
Employer Virtual Informational Sessions
April 10, 3:30 - 4:00 PM
April 11, 3:30 - 4:00 PM
Orientation
Interested employers will be invited to an orientation to learn about procedures and required paperwork.
In-Person Session
May 22nd
9 - 11 AM
Location: GECAC, 18 West 9th Street, Erie PA
Virtual Session
May 23rd
4:30 - 5:30 PM
Link to be sent via email
Benefit to Employers
- GECAC screens and trains the youth participating in the program and matches their skills and interests to a local business.
- You help local youth learn valuable life skills and gain practical work experience.
- You'll have an opportunity to see what local talent can offer and to introduce youth to potential career paths.
- You'll be assigned a dedicated job site team advisor to ensure a successful experience for you and the youth worker.
Pay Tier 1:
- GECAC covers all wages, payroll taxes, and worker's compensation.
Pay Tier 2:
- GECAC covers all payroll taxes and worker's compensation.
- Employers contribute $2.00 for every hour worked per youth.
- Employers seeking returning participants will be placed in Tier 2.
Questions:
Jamilia Gates
Earn+Learn Director
Email: earnlearn@gecac.org
Phone: (814) 459-4581 ext.407
