Looking to build real experience while getting paid? ASCENDtials’ Youth Workforce Development Program gives you 12 weeks of hands-on training in entrepreneurship, creative business, and community leadership — with a paycheck, a mentor network, and a professional portfolio to show for it by the end.
You’ll work through a Creative Income curriculum covering everything from personal branding and storytelling to visual design and knowing your numbers — the real building blocks of starting something of your own. Every week, you’ll also hear directly from a working entrepreneur or creative professional connected to that week’s topic, so you’re not just learning concepts — you’re building a network of people already doing the work.
Program Structure
- 2 mandatory workshops/week (Tue & Thu, 5–7PM)
- 1 onsite work day/week, chosen from ASCENDtials community events (markets, environmental programming, food distribution, tree planting)
- 3 remote work days/week — paid, $16/hour
Available Roles (interns select one at onboarding)
- Program Team Intern Lead
- Market Operations Intern
- Communications & Content Intern
- Partnership & Outreach Intern
- Data & Evaluation Intern
Responsibilities (vary by role, generally include:)
- Completing weekly workshop assignments and building a professional portfolio
- Supporting your assigned role’s day-to-day tasks (e.g., outreach and partner communication, market/event operations, content creation, or program data tracking)
- Attending your chosen weekly onsite event and one weekly team check-in
- Communicating regularly via Slack and tracking your own work in Asana
Minimum Requirements
- Ages 16–24
- Able to commit to the full 12-week program (schedule specifics shared at intake)
- Reliable access to a computer/internet for remote workdays
- Comfortable with basic tools like Google Workspace, Slack, and Canva (or willing to learn — training provided)
- Able to attend at least 75% of scheduled sessions to remain eligible for stipend payments
Skills We’re Looking For
- Communication and teamwork
- Interest in creative work, community engagement, or business/entrepreneurship (specific interest depends on role)
- Self-motivation for remote/independent work
- Willingness to learn and take initiative
