Summer Works

About SummerWorks

Based on the successful KentuckianaWorks program of the same name, SummerWorks Southern Indiana allows teens and young adults to participate in a summer program that provides them with more than just a paycheck. They will have the opportunity to learn invaluable skills they can take into the workforce, and beyond with the goal of strengthening the long-term foundation of our economy, and our community.

Time & Location

For the upcoming 2024 program, Southern Indiana Works will offer SummerWorks at sites in Clark, Floyd, and Harrison counties to 40-50 youth.

Participant Pay

Participants will earn $15 per hour for 20 hours per week for 6 weeks, June 10th-July 19th. They will also be required to attend job readiness training during their employment.

Recruitment, Training & Employment

Recruit, train, and employ justice-impacted individuals and individuals in recovery preparing them for entry-level positions within the behavioral health field, such as Peer Recovery Coaches, Community Health Workers, and Behavioral Health Technicians.
Professional Development & Training

Enhance the skills and expertise of current behavioral healthcare workers by funding specialized certifications and credentials, including Cultural Competency for Service Providers, Medication Assisted Treatment (M.A.T.), and technical certificates in areas like Human Services, Mental Health Direct Support, and Addiction Studies.
Employer Awareness & Education

Create a more inclusive and supportive work environment by raising awareness among employers about fair chance employment opportunities and strategies to address substance misuse, addiction, and recovery in the workplace. Whether you’re an employer seeking top talent or an individual ready to take the next step in your career, SoInCares is your partner in workforce development. Together, we can build a stronger, more compassionate behavioral health community in Southern Indiana.

WHAT TO EXPECT

SummerWorks Southern Indiana is an opportunity for youth ages 16-21 to gain relevant job skills, while providing talent development opportunities for area employers. Participants receive paid work experience, including job readiness training.

This job readiness training includes:

Information about job opportunities that align with participant’s age, interests, and experience and access to career resources.
Tips, tools, and workshops on how to land a great job and be the kind of employee every boss wants.
Resume and interview skill assistance
Assistance learning about financial management

SUMMER WORKS 2023 RESULTS

In the pilot year, 17 youth in Floyd and Clark County worked 1,800 hours during the six-week program. Participants worked at various city departments throughout New Albany, Clarksville, and Charlestown. Participants were placed at worksites according tot heir interests and location.

The average age of SummerWorks Southern Indiana participants was 17.8, 25% of participants were female, 17% were BIPOC. SummerWorks was the first experience of employment for 30% of participants

Felt that they were better prepared for their next job because of the experience

0 %

Believed that they learned new skills during their work experience

0 %

Felt supported by the staff of their worksite

0 %

Would recommend their SummerWorks employer to another student or participant.

0 %

Participant employers were also surveyed and 100% of the surveyed supervisors would host another SummerWorks participant in 2024, and supervisors would recommend 93.3% of the participants for future employment.

Our Partners

What does it take to be a sponsor?

Full Sponsorship: $2,500
Covers one participant’s pay at $15 per hour, 20 hours a week, for 6 weeks.
But any donation amount is welcomed and appreciated.

Southern Indiana Works is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities. The TTD/TTY number is 1.800.743.3333. Eligibility requirements may apply.

All programs and services are available to individuals based on eligibility and funding available