Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to frequently asked questions appear below. If you have another question, please email us or call 312-743-0208 .
- What are the requirements to apply for Youth Ready Chicago?
- How do I apply?
- How can I update my application if my information has changed?
- What organizations are offering opportunities?
- What opportunities are available?
- How will I know if I've been selected for an opportunity?
- How are applicants selected?
- What can I do if I am not selected?
Q: What are the requirements to apply for Youth Ready Chicago?
A: Each partner organization will have its own program requirements, but here are the most basic requirements:
- Be a resident of the City of Chicago
- Be age 14-21
- Have experience working within your school or community
- Apply using our online Application
- Have obtained parental / guardian signature if under the age of 18 at the time of application
Q: How do I apply?
A: Complete the online Youth Ready Chicago Application.
Q: How can I update my application if my information has changed?
A: You may revisit the Youth Ready Chicago web site and update your information on your application such as change of address and phone numbers.
Q: What organizations are offering opportunities?
A: Public agencies, such as the Chicago Public Schools, After School Matters, Chicago Park District, Chicago Housing Authority, and the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services.
Q: What opportunities are available?
A: Every summer, the young people who participate in Youth Ready Chicago assist in many different types of settings – in our city’s parks, public agencies, leading corporations, nonprofit organizations, TV stations and much more. They are lifeguards, tutors, childcare workers, administrative assistants, fast food team members, sales associates, special events coordinators, customer service personnel, painters, computer specialists, organizers, inventory specialists, receptionists, cashiers and more. On your application, you will be able to indicate the organization you are interested in working for and identify your skills and interests. While there are more applicants than there are opportunities available and it is best to keep your placement options open, you will be able to specify if you want to assist in a particular area of the city or for a particular type of organization or business. f you have been selected for a Youth Ready Chicago position, you will be notified by phone or email, so be sure to include a current phone number and email address on your Youth Ready Chicago application.
Q: How will I know if I've been selected for an opportunity?
A: Each Youth Ready Chicago partner agency will contact applicants directly by phone, email or mail for an interview or to fill a position. Be sure to include a current phone number and email address on your Youth Ready Chicago application.
Also, the demand for Youth Ready Chicago is tremendous, so we encourage you to keep looking and applying for other opportunities while you wait. This site has many Resources and tips to help you with your search!
Please refer to this letter from the Youth Ready Chicago Team for more information about the summer jobs program and application process.
Q: How are applicants selected?
A: Available jobs, internships and apprenticeships are determined and filled by each Youth Ready Chicago partner agency. Applicants are selected for interviews and placed in opportunities based on each partner agency’s criteria. Unfortunately, there are typically far fewer positions than applicants. We encourage you to visit the Resources section of this site for information and links to support you in your search. If you are not chosen to participate this year, by all means feel free to apply again next year.
Q: What can I do if I am not selected?
A: Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee employment. Please do not be discouraged if you do not secure an opportunity through Youth Ready Chicago. Visit the Resources section of this site for tips to support you in your search. We also encourage you to Volunteer for a local community organization or church and participate in educational and training opportunities to build even more skills while continuing to look for your next opportunity. These activities will benefit you in all of your future pursuits. We also encourage you to check back if you are still eligible and apply for Youth Ready Chicago in the future.
