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The History of the Youth Job Center

Youth Job Center has been a leading provider of employment-related services for disadvantaged and at-risk youth in Evanston and Chicago, serving more than 20,000 young people during our 25-year history. YJC was founded on the belief that this population is an undeveloped community asset—a valuable, untapped source of energy, talent and productivity.

For 25 years, YJC has prepared youth ages 14 to 25 for success in the workplace by providing job-readiness, placement and employment support in partnership with employers. Each year, we provide services to approximately 1,400 youth, helping them:

Clients served by YJC

Obtain and maintain employment
Increase income potential
Gain meaningful work experience
Develop professional skills and behaviors
Enhance feelings of independence, confidence and self-worth

Highlights of our 25 years of shaping futures and enriching lives:

1983		Youth Job Center founded by Ann Jennett to provide job placement services to community youth.
1986		YJC is cited by United Way as “one of the most important and relevant agencies in Evanston.”
1991		YJC expands funding opportunities to include a wide range of services.
1995		Summer Tutors program begins in collaboration with Evanston School District 65.
1998		YJC launches the SCA (Strategic Corporate Alliances) Job Training Program as a pilot to assist young adults with making the transition from public assistance to work.
1999		YJC Satellite office opens at Evanston Township High School to provide onsite job placement services to high school students. The “Outpost” continues to thrive today.
2001		Founder Ann Jennett retires but continues to play an active role on the Board of Directors.
2003		YJC receives workforce development funding to provide services to Out of School Youth in Evanston.
2006		YJC launches new multi-year Strategic Plan, revises Mission Statement and Core Values and improves service delivery model.
2007		YJC introduces community outreach and community impact initiatives.
2008		YJC celebrates its 25th anniversary.
2009		YJC receives state funding to retrofit its Church Street facility to be more environmentally-friendly and energy-efficient. The project will be a community example of sustainability and will directly provide jobs for Evanston youth.

Looking for something specific?

Upcoming Events

Thu, Mar 11th, 2010, @1:00pm - 04:00PM
YJC Spring Job Fair!

Thu, Mar 11th, 2010, @3:45pm - 05:15PM
Learn to Earn Workshop

Tue, Mar 16th, 2010, @11:30am - 01:00PM
Orientation

Tue, Mar 16th, 2010, @1:00pm - 02:00PM
Employer Expectations Workshop

Thu, Mar 18th, 2010, @3:45pm - 05:15PM
Learn to Earn Workshop

Thu, Mar 25th, 2010, @3:45pm - 05:15PM
Learn to Earn Workshop

Thu, Apr 1st, 2010, @3:45pm - 05:15PM
Learn to Earn Workshop

Tue, Apr 6th, 2010, @11:30am - 01:00PM
Orientation

Tue, Apr 6th, 2010, @1:00pm - 02:00PM
Employer Expectations Workshop

Wed, Apr 7th, 2010, @10:00am - 03:00PM
SCA April Training Session Begins