Businesses can request summer interns as TeensWork Alachua starts fifth year

Press release from Children’s Trust of Alachua County

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – This summer, teens around Alachua County will have the opportunity to cut their teeth in the working world, and businesses will benefit, triple-fold. 

Five years ago, a new program hit Alachua County with a bang. Summer and fall work opportunities became centralized and available for area youth. Businesses signed up for “interns,” The Children’s Trust funded the payroll, and Goodwill North FL coordinated the effort.

Through these partnerships, a thriving summer work program took off. Youth from 14-18 who are enrolled in Alachua County schools –- public, charter, private, virtual, or GED-equivalent — can sign up and be placed with a participating business, at no cost to the business. They’re paid through the program. Interns make $14 an hour and work up to 17 hours a week. Businesses impart skills to them, like job readiness, financial literacy, communication skills, and emotional intelligence, while receiving support in recruitment, payment, HR, and career training.

“TeensWork Alachua (TWA) isn’t just a summer internship, it’s a launching pad,” said Marsha Kiner, executive director of CTAC. “Teens gain practical skills, confidence, and connections that prepare them for who they’re becoming in the world. By helping young people think critically as they enter the workforce, this program invests in strong, engaged citizens and in our community’s future.”

Last year, 270 teenagers worked for 125 business partners. For half of those teens, it was their first job ever. Many opened bank accounts for the first time, with help from the program. Over the summer, each student logged an average of 133 hours at their TWA jobs.

The program runs over the summer, and businesses can request an intern up to April 30.

It’s a big investment from the community. The Children’s Trust funds TeensWork Alachua to the tune of almost $1 million. But the benefits are clear, and the numbers speak for themselves. By strengthening our youth, we strengthen our community. From first job to adult career, these experiences give children a solid place from which to start their journey. 

Businesses can request an intern from now until April 30 by filling out this simple form today.