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Chicago Youth Works

Youth Workforce Pathways

Connecting young people to meaningful work experiences, mentorship, and long-term career exposure.

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Official Site

Program Goals

Our Mission

Revitalized for 2026 and beyond, Chicago Youth Works — formerly One Summer Chicago — is the City of Chicago’s youth employment program. Its fresh name and new look meet our moment, honoring the tenacity and talent of our city’s youth as well as the significant expansion in youth employment opportunities under Mayor Brandon Johnson, an unwavering champion for Chicago’s young people.

This highly inclusive program is for youth and employers from all across the city. We connect tens of thousands of young people each year with enriching work opportunities. Youth participants gain valuable paid work experience, develop new tools for success, and make a difference in their communities.

Focus Areas

  • Paid summer employment

  • Resume and interview preparation

  • Workplace etiquette training

  • Career exploration

  • Leadership development

  • Financial literacy exposure

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employment

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development

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training

intended outcomes

  • Build workforce confidence

  • Reduce barriers to employment

  • Increase youth engagement and retention

  • Create pathways toward long-term opportunity

Contact

  • Program Coordinator

    KLEO Programs Team

  • Email

    info@thekleocenter.org

  • PHONE

    773.363.6941

Partners

Each year we have more applicants than job openings in Chicago Youth Works. We encourage you to keep looking and applying for other opportunities while you wait to hear about your application.

Inquiry Form