The Bergen One-Stop Career Center can help you develop your career plan, improve your occupational, math or literacy skills, or obtain your high school diploma (G.E.D.). Youth Services for low-income and at-risk individuals include improvement of educational competencies, connections to employers, mentoring, training, supportive services, and opportunities related to leadership, decision making, citizenship, and community service.
At-Risk Youth: The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) funds support programs at local facilities for youth between the ages of 14 and 21 who are economically disadvantaged or displaced or who have other special needs. Staff members work with the guidance counselors and support staff from area high schools and local community organizations to identify needy students. Programs are available for in-school and out-of-school youth. Through an extensive Request for Proposal (RFP) process, the Bergen One-Stop Career Center sponsors a number of job training programs for at-risk youth and recipients of public assistance through local schools and community groups. Learn more about the program and the timeline for submitting proposals.
Out-of-School Youth: The Bergen County Community Action Partnership, Inc. (BCCAP) offers Project ACES (Access to Careers, Education and Support), a collaborative program for out-of-school youth, ages 16-21. The program includes GED prep, vocational training in food service, weatherization, and customer service; counseling; and job placement. You can take advantage of job shadowing and mentoring for paid and unpaid work experience, gain the skills needed to move beyond entry-level jobs, and develop the tools to move toward self-sufficiency. Choose from several convenient locations: Cliffside Park, Hackensack, Englewood, North Arlington, and Westwood. All services are free if you qualify. For further information, call (201) 968-0200.
Additional Resources for Youth
Bergen County Division of Family Guidance
New Jersey Career Assistance Navigator (NJCAN)
New Jersey Next Stop…Your Career
New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development: Choose a Career
Peterson’s: Your Comprehensive Guide to College Information
USA Jobs for Students and Recent Grads
U.S. Department of Labor: Free Online Resources for Youth
One True Zone: This is a career coaching tool that empowers high school and college students to find a passion early in life and apply it to a career.
O*NET OnLine: O*NET OnLine has detailed descriptions of the world of work for use by job seekers, workforce development and HR professionals, students, researchers, and more.