Going the Extra Mile
Q&A with Jennifer Hale, One Irvine Workforce Program Coordinator
In 2024, the City of Irvine received $1.678 million in grant funding from California Volunteers to establish the One Irvine Workforce Youth Service Corps program. The program is designed to employ and empower the next generation of public servants by providing valuable work experience and mentorship opportunities to underserved youth, while developing public service career pathways.
J Goal-setting and organization J Business communication and etiquette J Financial literacy and money management In November 2024, we initiated the full-time Adult Apprenticeship and placed a total of 10 apprentices in various City departments. Apprentices are currently supporting staff with some exciting projects such as the expansion of the Irvine City Council, the new citywide Enterprise Resource Planning software system, and other community initiatives related to affordable housing, sustainability, community services, and community development. We’re excited to see the impact these folks make throughout 2025! The Summer High School program is available for high school students, at least 16 years old, during summer break, and the Adult Apprentice program is a year-long program for ages 30 and younger. The programs are coordinated by Jennifer Hale, a Senior Management Analyst in the City’s Human Resources Department, who shared information about this valuable partnership that benefits both the City and individuals in the programs.
Last year was the first year Irvine offered the One Irvine Workforce Youth Service Corps programs. Can you tell us more about the different programs? Last summer, the Human Resources
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Department partnered with the Community Services Department to place local high school students in paid, part-time positions at various community parks. As Community Services Leaders, they received valuable on-the-job training, engaged with participants in summer camps and arts programs, supported special events, operations, and facility/field preparations. Additionally, they benefited from mentorship and skill- development opportunities such as: J Job search, interviewing, and career-readiness J Leadership and customer service
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Inside Irvine
Spring 2025
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