DETROIT, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — Over 8,600 Detroit youths will gain valuable work experience this summer through the Grow Detroit’s Young Talent (GDYT) program, which offers employment opportunities in public service, tech, and hospitality. 

Celebrating its 10th year, the program has added 100 new jobs and secured an unprecedented $14 million in funding from major contributors such as the DTE Foundation, Ballmer Group, Rocket Community Fund, Apple, and President Joe Biden’s American Rescue Plan Act. The program was officially launched at Wayne State University on July 9.

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GDYT provides a tiered approach to career readiness, tailored to the varying levels of work experience among participants:

  • Tier 1: “Career Exploration” – Designed for younger participants (typically 14-16 years old) with little to no previous work experience. This tier introduces them to “first-time work and career opportunities through community service, team projects, and job shadowing.”
  • Tier 2: “Ready for Work” – Aimed at those with some prior work experience (typically 16-24 years old), this tier “places youth with a host employer or in vocational training experience, while continuing to build career readiness skills.”
  • Tier 3: “Career Pathway Internships” – For older youth (17-24 years old) with “previous work experience and a desire to focus on a specific career pathway.” This competitive tier offers internships with host employers, providing targeted career development. 

Deputy Mayor Todd Bettison spoke about the significance of the program for Detroit’s youth with the Detroit Free Press.

“The GDYT program gives our youth an opportunity to develop the skill sets they need and inspires them to get ready for the workforce,” Bettison said. “It gives them an opportunity to make money when they’re out of school and also to keep them off the streets.”

The program is not just about temporary employment. Each participant undergoes a six-week trial, working approximately 120 hours, earning $12 to $15 per hour depending on their age. Beyond this, the program encourages employers to offer long-term employment opportunities. 

Recognizing the multifaceted needs of its participants, GDYT has expanded its support services. This year, in partnership with the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network, the program is offering mental health services, post-secondary education information, and financial counseling. 

As GDYT continues to grow and attract thousands of applicants annually, Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield told the Detroit Free Press that she is advocating for increased funding to expand the program.

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For those interested in supporting or joining the program, whether as donors, employers, or participants, information is available at gdyt.org. The application window for the 2025 program opens in early February.