$117,920 grant funds Hartford Public Library’s youth employment program

The major contribution from Capital Workforce Partners will facilitate the Opportunity Youth Employment & Learning Program. CTDOL is also giving its support.

HARTFORD, Conn. — The Hartford Public Library is the recipient of another sizable grant, its team announced Thursday.

HPL has been awarded $117,920 in funding from Capital Workforce Partners. The money will facilitate the Opportunity Youth Employment & Learning Program, or OYELP.

In addition to Capital Workforce Partners, the program is being supported by the Connecticut Department of Labor.

According to an HPL release, OYELP looks to identify and connect teens and young adults who are disconnected from work or school to career pathways through paid work-based learning experiences made to create a talent pipeline that meets the needs of employers.

HPL President and CEO Bridget Quinn said that the city’s library personnel are committed to empowering young people with the skills and experience they need to bring about long-term success.

“Through this program, we are not only supporting local youth but also helping to build a strong, diverse workforce that meets the needs of employers in our community,” Quinn added.

From January to June of this year, OYELP is offering career competency development to individuals ages 16-24. This entails work readiness training and real-world experiences that line up with the interests of participants.

Those participating in the program gain hands-on, paid experience that strengthens their academic learning and transferable skills while preparing them for different careers. This process is accomplished through work-based learning.

By providing workplace exposure and mentorship, the program’s developers aim to offer young people opportunities to grow key professional skills necessary for success in the workforce.

Alex Johnson, president and CEO of Capital Workforce Partners, spoke on the importance of the collaborative and inclusive program.

“This partnership reflects our continued shared commitment to uplifting the next generation and ensuring that every young person has a pathway to success,” Johnson said.

Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dzbierski@FOX61.com.

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$117,920 grant funds Hartford Public Library’s youth employment program

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