Connecting Workforce Pell to Afterschool and Older Youth

Workforce Pell significantly impacts afterschool and out-of-school time programs, especially those catering to older youth. These programs are crucial for career exploration, skill development, and preparing students for life after high school. They assist young people in acquiring foundational and employability skills, linking learning to real-world scenarios, and increasing awareness of career pathways.

With Pell expanding to short-term credential programs, afterschool initiatives are ideally positioned to bridge the gap between early exposure and formal training. For high school students and young adults, particularly those who may not follow a traditional four-year degree path, afterschool programs can act as a gateway to workforce pathways that Workforce Pell would support. By integrating career-connected learning, including opportunities to earn credentials, college credits, and engage in registered apprenticeships, these programs can lead youth toward 21st-century careers. To read more about how this impacts afterschool: