Philly mayor, councilman urge employers to offer youth summer jobs

With the end of the school year approaching quickly, Philadelphia’s mayor is trying to recruit more businesses to hire a teen for the summer.

A year ago, 18,000 kids applied for the Philadelphia summer youth employment program — but there were fewer than 8,000 jobs available.  

Mayor Michael Nutter and other city officials reached out to employers asking them to hire one or more teens this summer.

“The call here is to ask every employer in Philadelphia to hire at least one young person this summer, give a person an opportunity … show them what you do at your job, your office, your business,” Nutter said.  “Give them a chance to get some life skills, get some work skills, make a little money this summer.”

Councilman Bobby Henon recalled working at a gas station during the summer break form school.

“This is an opportunity to provide our youth and our kids the real life experience as they enter into the workforce,” he said. “They can see what it means to be responsible in going to work  and making them a productive citizen in the city of Philadelphia.”

The program costs employers about $1,700, but Nutter said it brings a wealth of experience to those who participate.