Youth

Vision: To work in partnership to ensure that all youth have access to the services they need to become self-sufficient adults.

Mission: To guide the coordination of services that fully develop the employment potential of youth in Southwest Minnesota.

The SW MN PIC is committed to helping disadvantaged youth ages 14-21 prepare for the workforce. Through work experiences, career exploration, post-secondary tuition assistance, and job seeking/retention assistance, our team works one-on-one to increase the skills of our region’s youth so they might become self-sufficient. With state, federal and private sector funding, the SW MN PIC offers youth the ability to earn wages, receive academic credit, and gain leadership skills that transcend into adulthood.

Available Services

• Paid work experience at no cost to employers
• Job Keeping and Seeking Assistance
• Career Exploration and Assistance
• Post-Secondary Education Assistance

Eligibility Guidelines

Any student in our residing in our fourteen county service area that is 14-21 years old who meets established guidelines may be considered for services. Eligibility is determined by gross family income, UNLESS an applicant falls into one or more of the following categories:

• Recovering Chemically Dependent
• In Foster Care
• Emotionally or Physically Challenged
• Current IEP on File with School
• Eligible for/or receiving Food Stamps
• MFIP Recipient (family)
• Receiving Social Services and/or Group Home Services
• Attending Alternative School
• Currently on Probation
• Pregnant or Parenting Youth
• Limited English Speaking
• Runaway Youth
• Homeless Youth

Applications are available for download on this page and from local school counselors, teachers, county family service agencies, probation officers, or by contacting your local WorkForce Center.