Youth Opportunity Center

Youth who have dropped out of school can feel free to drop in to the friendly Youth Opportunity Centers which also serve high school graduates. Addressing the needs of this segment of the workforce having the highest rate of unemployment, youth counselors encourage enrollment in basic skills tutoring leading to GED equivalency diplomas, as well as career training programs in vocational and technical fields leading to higher degrees.

All student expenses for classes, books, materials, tools, and uniforms are offset by individual training accounts (ITA's) which are issued based on need. Career exploration is promoted so youth can be matched with good jobs based on their interests and aptitudes, prospects for industry growth, and earnings potential.

YCI provides 11 services to youth in South Florida. The program provides out-of-school youth with comprehensive assessment and guidance through the decision-making process of weighing all of their available options. Tutoring and other academic supports youth may need to gain access to the paths they select are also provided. Each one of these elements is available to participants and is offered in accordance with his/her Individualized Success Strategy (ISS).

Over 1,000 youth, ages 16-21, are served during each program year. Approximately 75% of those who complete the program enter employment and 25% enroll in post-secondary education and advanced training.

Locations

YCI also Provides the Following

Youth Programs & Services

Stay-in-School Program A nationally-acclaimed drop-out prevention program to assist at-risk students.	Refugee Youth & Family Program Helps students with acculturation, social skills, and grades.
After-School Tutoring Elementary, middle and high school students benefit from our tutoring programs.	Crime Prevention Programs teach positive decision-making skills to promising youth with risk factors.