MANSFIELD – Catalyst Life Services, in partnership with Richland County Job and Family Services (RCJFS) and the Richland County Youth and Family Council, is excited to announce the 2026 Summer Youth Program.
This initiative is designed to provide local youth with valuable work experience while earning a competitive wage and receiving essential job training. Applications for the program will open on May 19. The program will run through Sept. 30.
The Summer Youth Program will offer participants the opportunity to earn $13 per hour, with a maximum of 20 hours of work per week over an 8-week period. Youth participants will have the opportunity to work in a wide range of fields, including groundskeeping, pet care, maintenance, recreation, office support, retail, food service, barber shops, and more.
The program is open to youth ages 14 to 18 who are enrolled in secondary school, are TANF-eligible, or are part of the foster care system.
While the program primarily serves low-income youth, all interested applicants are encouraged to apply, as additional funding may allow for the inclusion of youth who exceed income guidelines. Priority will be given to 14- and 15-year-old applicants.
To be considered, participants must complete a PRC application and provide required documentation, including verification of income, birth certificates for both the youth and parent/guardian, and Social Security numbers for all individuals residing in the household.
Stephanie Jakubick, Assistant Director of Vocational Services at Catalyst Life Services, emphasized the importance of acting quickly during the application process.
“We have a very short window to determine eligibility, complete orientations, and place youth at job sites by June 1st,” Jakubick said.
“It is critical that parents and guardians complete applications as soon as possible and respond promptly to all requests for documentation.”
Jakubick also highlighted the urgency of securing required items for participation.
“For youth ages 14 and 15, obtaining a work permit should begin immediately,” she added.
Participants cannot complete orientation without a valid work permit, and delays can prevent placement in the program. Youth must also have their own bank account established prior to participation.”
The program will provide work attire and transportation assistance to ensure all participants have the resources they need to succeed. Electronic applications are currently available on the Richland County Job and Family Services website, https://www.rcjfs.net
Once applications are approved through Richland County Job and Family Services, Catalyst Life Services will begin scheduling orientations. For questions, please contact Catalyst Life Services at 419-774-2248.