Opportunity Youth are young people ages 16 to 24 who are not in school and not working, or do not have their high school diploma. About 1 in 4 young people in Hartford are Opportunity Youth.
While Opportunity Youth can face challenges to successful careers, the Hartford Opportunity Youth Collaborative is working to transform these challenges into opportunities. Opportunity Youth represent a solution for employers seeking the skilled workers of tomorrow. Hartford is strengthening and improving access to services and programs that support Opportunity Youth on their path to career success. Click here to view the Education-Career Pathway System diagram, which provides more information on career pathways phases and principles.
Hartford Opportunity Youth Collaborative is chaired by the Mayor of Hartford and made up of leaders in education, youth development, and workforce development committed to addressing the needs of Opportunity Youth. This collective impact effort will help these youth obtain their high school diploma, continue their education, and find employment. More information about the Hartford Opportunity Youth Collaborative can be found on their website http://youthreconnect.org/
For a Hartford Opportunity Youth Collaborative Training and Employment Navigation Tool and a link to a broader 211 portal resource link, visit the site here: 2-1-1 Connecticut (211ct.org)
The 2-1-1 website can also provide links to youth and young adults services offered statewide. Click here for more resources.
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PREPARED BY: 211/ch
CONTENT LAST REVIEWED: December2023