Youth Engagement Services, formally known as the Mayor's Youth Academy, is the youth serving unit of the Office of Community Wealth Building. This unit is comprised of dedicated, authentic, and innovative professionals committed to the development of the future workforce. With a growth mindset, we strive to eliminate barriers that may lead to poverty. We believe in fostering flexibility and being resourceful in our approach. Youth Engagement Services provides a safe space for youth 14-24 to explore diverse career paths, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to grow and thrive.

Bridging The Gap In Virginia - Reentry Services provider; to include workforce development, Solar Industry Certification Training

GroundworkRVA - Groundwork RVA programs work with youth to occupy a hands-on role in creating positive changes to enhance green spaces in Richmond communities. In afterschool and summer settings, we encourage youth to think innovatively about mending community. Teens address new opportunities to connect residents by increasing access to local and National Parks, improving school campuses, and creating neighborhood assets from blighted or contaminated sites.

Truetimber Arborists - Various landscaping/property management assignments throughout 20 acre facility

Emerge Construction Group - Emerge Construction Group (ECG) is an award-winning Richmond, Virginia-based boutique firm with more than twenty-five years of construction management experience. ECG focuses on niche projects that create destinations when constructed to their “highest and best” use.

Freemans Pressure Washing & Lawn Care - Ground maintenance- Mowing , trimming , blowing of grass clippings , leaves , mulching, loading wheel barrel, planting

Public Art Program - The Public Art Program's mission is to increase the availability, accessibility, and quality of public art throughout the City. The program is guided by the Public Art Commission and is supported by Percent for Art funding.

Visual Arts Center of Richmond - The Visual Arts Center of Richmond (VisArts) has helped adults and children explore their creativity and make art since 1963. Each year, the organization touches the lives of more than 50,000 people through its classes, exhibitions, community programs, camps, and special events. VisArts offers more than 1,500 visual and creative arts classes in clay, wood, fiber, painting, photography, printmaking, glass, metal, drawing, writing, decorative arts, and other visual media. More than 220 instructors teach for the organization."

City of Richmond: Dept of Parks & Rec - Artsplosion - Artsplosion is a creative camp for children in the City of Richmond.

Rising Refs - Rising Refs educates, trains and guides youth and young adults in all things gameday management giving them tangible skills to work in sports.

Synod of the Mid-Atlantic - We are a not-for-profit organization that provides governance, direction, and support to 14 Presbyteries within the Mid-Atlantic region.

The Beet Box - The Beet Box is a vibrant, Black-owned juice bar dedicated to serving fresh, flavorful, and nutritious beverages and meals. We believe in making healthy options accessible and delicious, offering a menu filled with bold flavors, locally sourced ingredients, and innovative blends. More than just a juice bar, The Beet Box is a community hub that fosters wellness, sustainability, and inclusivity, ensuring that every sip and bite nourish both the body and the soul.

Mending Fences, LLC. - Mending Fences Counseling Services provides a safe environment where clients can share their thoughts and feelings while being nurtured to obtain the highest academic and creative potential. The company and its staff creates a learning environment where all clients are provided comprehensive services to assist and incorporate learning and development in defining and accomplishing personal and social goals. Mending Fences operates with the philosophy that clients are challenged and motivated to excel in an atmosphere where they are accepted, valued and expected to succeed.

Birth in Color - Birth in Color is a reproductive justice nonprofit organization dedicated to improving maternal and infant health outcomes, particularly for Black communities. Through advocacy, education, and culturally competent care, Birth in Color provides doula services, policy engagement, and community programs that empower families and ensure equitable access to respectful and inclusive healthcare. The organization works to address racial disparities in birth experiences by supporting parents, training birth workers, and advancing legislation that protects birthing rights.

Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia - Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia

Black Top Kings & Queens inc - BTKQ Inc. is a dedicated organization committed to violence reduction and prevention efforts. Our mission is to create safer communities by addressing the root causes of violence through education, advocacy, and intervention programs. We work with individuals, families, and community leaders to implement effective strategies that promote peace, empowerment, and social justice.

Heaven Sent Child Care KLC - Childcare facility

KR Scholars - KR Scholars is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering current and future HBCU scholars by providing college readiness, financial literacy education, and workforce readiness programs. Our mission is to increase college retention and completion rates by equipping students with the resources and support needed to succeed beyond graduation. Through strategic partnerships, mentorship, and hands-on learning experiences, KR Scholars fosters a strong network of scholars prepared to excel in their academic and professional journeys. Our programs are designed to bridge the gap between education and career success, ensuring that scholars are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities needed to thrive in their chosen fields.

Mary and Frances Youth Center - We are a youth center on the Monroe Park Campus at VCU. We offer 7 weeks of summer camp as well as a number of training sessions for adults who work with youth.

Maymont Foundation - Maymont is a 100-acre green space in the heart of Richmond, Virginia. We welcome everyone to explore our spectacular Gilded Age mansion, beautiful curated gardens, immersive nature center, interactive farm and rescued animal habitats—and to find moments of wonder while you wander our rolling hills.

R.E.A.L Girlz - Our mission is to provide a safe and supportive environment where girls can embrace their individuality, build meaningful relationships, and cultivate essential life skills through opportunities and resources.

Through a variety of programs and services, including mentorship programs, leadership development, and our SumHer Experience, we strive to equip girls with the confidence, resilience, and skills needed to navigate life's challenges and pursue their dreams.

Servant Partners - At Servant Partners, we teach and mentor boys and young men in the East End of Richmond. Our Summer Program will entail character development, knowledge acquisition, skill building, and life experiences. Our youth will work in areas such as lawn care, car detailing, and community service.

Street Smartz Over Safety, LLC - "Street Smartz Over Safety, LLC is a multifaceted community development organization that was formed in August of 2021 but started working in the community as of January 2022, with a three-pronged approach: afterschool enrichment, life-saving training, and mentorship. Our mission is to empower youth, young adults, and the broader community through an innovative curriculum that integrates forensic science, team building, career readiness, and social-emotional learning. By fostering confidence, self-worth, and leadership skills, we prepare participants for lifelong success. Our programs go beyond traditional education by incorporating hands-on practical experiences such as CPR and REVIVE training, wellness workshops, and violence prevention initiatives. Through seminars, conferences, and interactive activities, we promote not only academic and career development but also physical and mental well-being."

City of Richmond: Virginia Cooperative Extension - VA Cooperative Extension provides resources to youth, adults, families, and seniors to include youth and adult financial education, housing education, food and nutrition education, youth development and leadership skills . We also offer agriculture experiences, master gardening and soil sample kits.

VOWS Foundation - VOWS is committed to being a bridge for under-resourced veterans & minority communities we aim to help them take charge of their lives through proper tools to unlock the power within themselves through mental-awareness

Iron Village Preparatory Academy - Iron Village Preparatory Academy is an academic enrichment program for 1st through 8th graders that launched September 2020. The 501c3 designated program, which is officially incorporated with the Commonwealth of Virginia, plans to grow into a full-fledged pre K-8 school.

Exotic Creatures Foundation - Exotic Creatures Foundation is an organization focused on educating children and adults about exotic animals and conservation threw live shows and internet engagement

Richmond Adult Technical Center - Educational Facility - Technical Center

East End Renaissance Council - We offer alternative program for out of school youth

5C's Carpentry - Vocational Trade School

Blacker The Berry Juice Bar LLC - We are a Health and wellness organization. We juice fresh juice from local fruits and vegetables to get the best nutrients. To show that the right foods can help with physical and mental health.

Founders Mark - Founders Mark is an impact organization whose goal is to close the skills gap for learners with the future of work. Our mission is to empower youth around the globe to become owners in all aspects of their lives. We use entrepreneurship and social impact as the platforms for learning critical skills for a successful future, regardless of career path. Founders Mark is a fun new way to build the skills needed for the jobs of the future, no matter what they may be. Engineer, Executive, Designer, Freelancer, or Founder...every job of the future will benefit from the entrepreneurial mindset (EM). We are here to help teens unleash fearlessness, develop an entrepreneurial mindset, and learn to apply it to all aspects of their lives."

FruitBowl Foundation - Through innovation, entrepreneurship, and community-focused programs, we cultivate the fruits of the soul—building stronger minds, healthier bodies, and a more unified spirit. Together, we create sustainable solutions that nourish individuals and transform communities.

The JWC Foundation - The JWC Foundation is a nonprofit entrepreneurial support organization that supports current and aspiring adult Black entrepreneurs in the Richmond, Virginia area. We have 2 focus areas: building sustainable operations and expanding your social capital (business network).

Browns Lawn In Order - Lawn care company 

A.G. Reese & Associates, PC - Full service accounting firm

RVA Financial - RVA Financial formerly New Generations FCU is a full-service, community-chartered credit union. We began in 1950 by serving the needs of City of Richmond employees. While Richmond employees have remained a core membership group for us even today, over the years we have also welcomed the employees of over 700 Richmond-area businesses into our fold as members. As RVA Financial has grown in size, we’ve also expanded membership eligibility so that anyone who lives, works, worships, or goes to school in Richmond, Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, and Henrico can join. RVA Financial currently has approximately 14,000 members, $64 million+ in total assets, and operates a branch Contact Center Branch, Online Banking Branch, in addition to two City offices.

City of Richmond: Office of Sustainability - We are seeking a passionate and energetic student to engage in community outreach and perform meaningful data analysis using online tools. You will work directly with sustainability experts on a variety of different projects and programs focusing on championing RVAgreen 2050, the City of Richmond’s equity-centered climate action and resilience planning initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 45% by 2030, and help the community adapt to Richmond’s climate impacts of extreme heat, precipitation, and flooding.

Richmond & Henrico Health Districts: Resource Centers - Resource Centers located in low income and public housing communities in Richmond, Virginia.  Our resource centers provide community health worker navigation services, community events, and some clinical services.

City of Richmond: 5th District City Council - Assisting with phone calls and emails from residents, researching and drafting legislation, attending meetings, organizing events, etc.

City of Richmond: Victim Witness Services Program - Our organization works with victims of crime and participates in the court process.

City of Richmond: Office of Immigration and Refugee Services - To improve the quality of life of immigrants and refugees by increasing their access to City and community based services/resources, promoting education and civic participation.

City Council Office: Richmond Budget Office - Richmond VA's Participatory Budgeting is a process that allows residents to have a say in how a part of the city’s budget is spent. Giving you a chance to brainstorm ideas, develop proposals, vote on projects, and make a difference in our community.

VCU Health/VCU - Emerging Leaders is a prevention-focused program, which serves youth ages 14-24. Emerging Leaders aims to proactively address factors contributing to violence by equipping young people with skills, mentorship, and community support that steer them away from risky behaviors. Through partnerships with VCU Health System and community organizations the program provides participants with educational resources, career readiness training, and positive role models. By fostering leadership and resilience among Richmond’s youth, Emerging Leaders plays a vital role in BTG’s overarching mission to reduce violence and build safer communities for future generations.

HCA Capital Division - Volunteers provide support, encouragement and a fresh perspective to patients and the hospital. In return, volunteers become part of our family and they join the team of physicians, nurses, staff members and others who make our patients feel at home.

RVA Paddlesports - RVA Paddlesports is a whitewater rafting company and tourism outfitter for the James river in Richmond, Virginia. We offer a variety of water related activities for participants of all ability levels

Rich Nail Lounge LLC - Luxurious beauty salon offering nail care, hair care, and waxing services.

City of Richmond: Annie Giles Community Center - 

Belmont Community Resource Services - Belmont Community Resource Services is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit located on the Southside of Richmond dedicated to supporting the food and resource needs of food and housing insecure neighbors. The Belmont Food Pantry and The Closet at Belmont have been serving the southside of Richmond since 2004.

CARITAS Works - CARITAS Works is a six-week, eight-hour a day (160+ hours), job-readiness, and life skills development program. The program encompasses character building, career development, life skills, and computer training.

Dana's Habitat Inc./Unique Lessons Learning Adult Day Support - Adult Day Support for intellectually disabled adults

Second Chance At Renewing Self (S.C.A.R.S.) - Second Chance At Renewing Self (S.C.A.R.S.) is a domestic violence awareness organization and healing community for survivors of intimate partner violence. We advocate for those affected by abuse, and offer programs and services which provide pathways to recovery and healing for survivors.

Sol Locs & Wellness - Sol | Locs and Wellness is a holistic wellness and natural hair care studio dedicated to fostering self-love, empowerment, and healing. We offer services such as loc maintenance, yoga, reiki, and ear acupuncture to support our clients’ physical and spiritual well-being. Our mission is to create a space where individuals feel seen, heard, and safe while embracing their natural beauty and inner balance.

City of Richmond: Homeless Services - Community Resource and Training Center

Carol Adams Foundation - The Carol Adams Foundation is a 501c3 organization that provides services to families who have been impacted by domestic violence. We provide housing, furniture, food and educational opportunities to families in crisis. We also provide out of school programs for youth, that includes workforce preparation, summer camp, weekend Leadership programs.

The Rock Project - We provide one on one and group mentoring sessions, guest speakers and college/career exploration. Life-skills development includes anger management, coping/cooperating skills, personal hygiene, financial literacy and setting personal goals for the future. We also offer During our nine week summer camp, we focus on entrepreneurship and teaching our youth how to be actively involved within their community. Each week we visit a local business or have an entrepreneur visit our location. Our youth get to experience various aspects of businesses such as restaurants, barbershops, real estate properties and so much more!

City of Richmond: Counselors in Training - The Counselor in Training (CIT) Program offers teens ages 14-16 an opportunity to develop professional skills and gain hands-on experience in a recreation setting. This program serves as a steppingstone for future employment while allowing teens to make a positive impact on their community.

Mt. Carmel Baptist - The Mount Carmel Baptist Church is located in Historic Church Hill on Richmond’s east end (right across the street from Chimborazo Park). We are a biblically-centered Baptist church where the word of God is preached and taught. We strive to live as the Word of God teaches. 

Kid Spirit, LLC - We are a Family Day Home located in Richmond

Born To Be Great II - Born To Be Great coordinates treatment, training, and transformation services designed to aid clients in navigating from addiction to making a full and final recovery.

City of Richmond: Human Services - The Human Services portfolio encompasses six city agencies dedicated to enriching the quality of life for all Richmond residents. The mission of the Human Services portfolio is to enhance economic stability and improve health outcomes and the overall wellbeing of Richmonders across all stages of life. 

Chosen 2 Lead LLC - Chosen2Lead is an innovative technology company that grows businesses.

City of Richmond: Richmond Public Library - The mission of the Richmond Public Library is to inform, enrich, and empower Richmond’s residents: to enrich lives and expand opportunities for all citizens by promoting reading and the active use of cultural, intellectual, and information resources through a dedication to excellence and professional service.

The Metropolitan Business League - A non-profit, membership-based business association that creates business connections in Central Virginia. For over 53 years we have fostered business development and expansion for small, women- and minority-owned businesses. We make every effort to promote economic prosperity in Virginia through education, advocacy, access to resources, and building relationships for small, women-owned, and minority-owned businesses.

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Adiva Naturals- Adiva Naturals mission is to provide natural, safe and effective personal care and lifestyle products to the consumer. Our goal is to educate and enhance the life of our consumers by offering handmade and healthy alternatives to the synthetic and potentially dangerous products on the market today. We use the highest quality ingredients without any compromise, to provide you with a total wellness experience!

City of Richmond: Department of Public Utilities- Drinking water treatment production plant.

Worthen Industries - Adhesive manufacturing plant. Our company is a private family owned company that has 5 plants in the U. S. We make adhesives in the Richmond Plant.

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City of Richmond: Department of Public Utilities - Gas, Water, Accounting, Engineering, Administration

Community Climate Collaborative - The Community Climate Collaborative (C3) catalyzes climate action at the community level through collaboration, programs, and advocacy to directly reduce climate pollution and elevate the climate leadership of Virginia communities. C3 places climate solutions directly in the hands of those with the most power to take immediate action. C3 achieves this by working closely with organizations and local governments to craft and promote sustainable solutions that enable a just transition to carbon neutrality.

City of Richmond: Department of Public Utilities (Plant Maintenance) - The City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities Water Treatment Division reliably provides clean drinking water and treats sanitary water for the City of Richmond and other Regional Partners.

Mechanics of Faith - Affordable automotive repair services for those in need

Department of Motor Vehicles- The Department of Motor Vehicles is responsible for providing Driver's License, Titles, Tags, birth certificates, fishing license and death certificates

Below, we have provided a list of comprehensive skills required for workplaces. Rate yourself for each skill on a scale of 1-5

• 1 being that you indentify as having little to no experience
• 5 being that you feel very experienced

Worksite Assignment Acknowledge 

  
Participants are not permitted to report to a work site which they are not assigned. All work site assignments are visible in the participant portal and designated by the City of Richmond Youth Engagement Services programs (Y.E.S.) only. A participant’s failure to report to the assigned work site will result in forfeiture of pay for days in attendance at the incorrect site.

By signing the box below, I certify that all information provided in this application is true and correct. I confirm that the email address used is soley owned by the applicant. I understand that this information is subject to verification. I further understand that providing any false information may result in my removal from a Youth Engagement Services program and may subject me to civil and/or criminal prosecution as applicable.

 
I have read the above statement and would like to submit my application to the Youth Engagement Services Program