Job training for 17 at-risk girls in San Francisco

Summary

Provide job training and support for 17 at-risk young women in San Francisco who have been exposed to the foster care and juvenile justice system.

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

Young women, particularly young women of color, are the fastest growing population in the juvenile justice system. They are disproportionately poor and over 75% have experienced physical and/or sexual abuse. The lack of gainful and meaningful employment is the primary obstacle facing young women struggling to stay out of the criminal justice system and stabilize their lives. With limited education and the stigma of a criminal record, job prospects for these young people are dim.

How will this project solve this problem?

Paid internships incorporate skills development, political education, community organizing and preparation for reintegration. The training prepares these young women for higher education and careers as consultants for public youth serving systems.

Potential Long Term Impact

The project creates new opportunities for 40 at-risk women looking for meaningful employment and support to heal from trauma. They successfully keeps young women out of the criminal justice system and offer jobs needed to support their families.

Project Message

"Being in the parenting classes has helped me not feel so alone. I also now have a job and I'm able to support my son."
- Terry Thomas, Program Participant

Additional Documentation

This project has provided additional documentation in a Microsoft Word file (projdoc.doc).

Resources