How to snag a summer gig through the Wilmington Youth Career Development Program

Attention, young readers (and readers with young people in their lives): If you’re aged 14-21, live in Wilmington and are ready to write a compelling 150 word essay about why you want a summer job, you’re eligible to apply for one of 100 jobs and internships within Wilmington City government as well as in the business and community sectors.

This year, the Youth Career Development program offers a two-track path to employment through competitive internships and the workforce track. Participants will be assigned a career mentor during the six- to eight-week program, and after successful completion they will receive a letter of recommendation from their employer.

Some of the participating businesses and agencies include the City of Wilmington, Blue Diamond Dental, R.E. Page and Associates, Southbridge Neighborhood House, Girls Inc., the YMCA, Shop Rite, the Riverfront Development Corporation, Summer Collab, United Way, Interfaith Housing,  Freedom School, Green Jobs, Howard HS Delaware Pathways, and Christiana Care.

To be considered, you’ll need to follow these steps:

1. Download, complete and print the application (found here)
2. Photocopy your State ID/Drivers License, Social Security card, birth certificate, proof of address and proof of parent/guardian income
3. Write a 150-200 word essay titled “Why I want a summer job”
4. Complete a work permit, if under 18
5. Complete a direct deposit form
6. Bring all paperwork to an intake session at the the Parks and Recreation offices at 500 Wilmington Road on  Tuesday, April 30 anytime between 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Note that you must attend the intake session to be considered for a position, where they will be awarded after review on a first-come-first-served basis. All jobs will be located in the City of Wilmington; employees will be responsible for transportation.

If you want to get involved with this City program, contact youthjobs@WilmingtonDE.go.