Youth Works Application Overview - What You Should Know

Calendar of Events and Checklist

Youthworks Calendar and Checklist

The YouthWorks Summer Jobs program runs from:
June 29 – July 31, 2026

Application Period (January 2 - March 7, 2026)

January/February 2026

☐ Create an account to apply for Youthworks

☐ Complete the Thread Student Survey for YouthWorks placements. Ask your Thread team about opportunities to fill out the survey. 

☐ Create or update your resume (highlight school, volunteer work, interests). Young people can get resume support at threadHours. 

☐ Request two references (teachers, coaches, community mentors) who will be comfortable endorsing you.

☐ Register for Q&A sessions (virtual) and in person school visits to learn more about the program

☐ Open a bank account if you do not have one.  (recommended)

☐ Ensure you have the vital documents you will need to apply.

   ☐ Confirmation of Driver's License/Student ID

   ☐ Social Security Card or Birth Certificate

   ☐ Immigration Documentation (If Applicable)

   ☐ COVID Vaccination Card/Copy

   ☐ Parent Guardian forms signed

You can visit one of the Youthworks Verification Days where they will help you upload your documents or correct any issues in your application. In addition to the verification days, each school will have a specific day where people will be coming from YouthWorks to assist students. 

For more information on the documents you need, please visit the Youth Works website. 

If you/your young person needs help getting their vital documents please see the article How Can I Help Someone with Documentation Costs?

March 2026

☐ Finalize/ submit the YouthWorks application.

☐ Employment Verification - Check Your Email for a Verification from Youthworks. That verification email will determine whether or not you received a placement through YouthWorks. 

☐ Ensure all required documents are uploaded to complete the application. There is an additional form for Pratt Library applications

Youth Works Preparation/Staying Informed

April 2026

☐ Confirm your email address and phone number are current (so you’ll receive the placement notification).

☐ Prepare interview clothing (clean shirt/blouse, dress shoes or clean sneakers if dress code is casual).

☐ Practice interview questions with a friend or family member (e.g., “Why do you want this job?”, “What are your strengths?”).

☐ If applicable, complete any additional screening or paperwork required by your assigned worksite.

☐ Stay on top of your grades. 

May 2026

☐ Once you get job placement (likely in late April/May), schedule your first work‐day with your supervisor.

☐ Plan your commute: map out how you’ll travel to the worksite (bus route, walking, etc.).

☐ Set up a calendar/reminder for your work schedule (e.g., up to 25 hours/week). 

☐ Set goals for the summer job: what skills you want to learn (e.g., teamwork, communication, time management).

☐ Register for Summer School if Needed - Some credit recovery placements may be available as a YouthWorks worksite as well. 

YouthWorks Employment Period (June 29-July 31, 2026)

June 2026

☐ Confirm start date with your employer and verify your schedule (days/hours).

☐ Arrange transportation and lunch/snacks for the work‐week.

☐ Prepare a “first-day” checklist: notebook & pen, questions for your supervisor, comfortable attire.

☐ Relax, get good sleep, and mentally prepare for the start of work.

July 2026

Ways to reflect/grow in your role:

☐ First day of work. Show up early, introduce yourself, and ask for an overview of your role.

☐ In your second week, reflect on your first week—what went well, what you’d like to improve.

☐ Ask your supervisor about feedback or areas to develop.

☐ Keep track of your hours worked, pay stubs, any tasks/projects you complete (for future résumé material).

☐ Thank your supervisor for the opportunity; ask if you can use them as a reference for future jobs.