World Business Chicago is proud to be part of a multifaceted citywide movement that aims to provide Chicagoans ages 14-24 with a pathway to a career by and through a collaborative ecosystem across all levels of city government, the private sector and the local business community.

As a convenor, we are here to be of support, consult, and connect you to resources that will help your company connect young talent to paid meaningful career exploration opportunities, workforce development programs and effective career pathway that enhance their employability, financial independence, promote personal growth and ignite ambition to pursue a fulfilling future.

“As the workforce of the future, empowering our youth is paramount. Studies consistently demonstrate that active engagement, including providing employment opportunities for at-risk youth, not only benefits them individually but also yields positive outcomes for our entire community. It’s imperative that our corporate community actively participate in overcoming the barriers to hiring youth. I urge everyone to connect with our resident expert, Tana Francellno, and join us in this crucial endeavor.”

– Phil Clement, President & CEO, World Business Chicago.

We are asking business partners to engage in any of the following ways:

• Engage with our workforce expert, Tana Francellno, to best understand a path forward. Connect here.
• Hire more youth by expanding an already existing preparation or development program.
• Start a new youth employment program.
• Host a career preparation experience to help youth gain additional job readiness skills, which many of you have experienced as a barrier.
• Invest corporate and philanthropic funds into the initiative.

“Thank you for hosting the roundtable on youth job empowerment. The event was incredibly informative, and it provided invaluable insights into the critical issue of youth employment in Chicago. The meaningful discussions and collaboration among stakeholders from various sectors showed that we are all united in our shared goal of empowering young people to succeed in the workforce. I look forward to continuing to work together to drive positive change in our community.”

– Christopher Larsen, Talent Acquisition Specialist, The Will Group