Supported Employment
Program

Empowering Transitional Age Youth to Build Careers, Independence, and Purpose

Serving Prince George’s County Youth Ages 16–25

Our Mission

The YCR Supported Employment Program empowers young adults to identify career goals, develop workforce skills, secure competitive employment, and maintain long-term success through individualized support, coaching, and community partnerships.

We believe employment is more than a paycheck—it is a pathway to recovery, self-confidence, independence, and community inclusion.

Who We Serve

Our program serves youth and young adults ages 16–25 who may be experiencing:

Mental health challenges
Behavioral health concerns
Substance use recovery
Housing instability
Foster care involvement
Juvenile justice involvement
School disengagement
Lack of work experience
Difficulty obtaining or maintaining employment
Transitioning from residential, crisis, or treatment programs

No previous employment experience is required.

Job Search & Placement Assistance

Our Employment Specialists help participants identify and secure meaningful employment opportunities.

Support includes:

Job searches
Online applications
Employer connections
Interview scheduling
Transportation planning
Employment referrals

Program Services

Career Exploration & Planning

Discover your interests, strengths, and career goals through individualized vocational assessments and career planning.

Services include:

Career interest assessments
Vocational evaluations
Goal setting
Educational planning
Career pathway development

Supported Employment Services

Once employed, participants continue receiving support to help maintain employment success.

Services may include:

Job coaching
Workplace adjustment support
Problem-solving assistance
Employer coordination
Benefits counseling
Career advancement planning

Job Readiness Training

Learn the skills needed to become workforce-ready.

Topics include:

Resume development
Interview preparation
Professional communication
Workplace expectations
Time management
Conflict resolution
Financial literacy
Professional etiquette

Education & Training Support

For youth pursuing educational goals, we provide assistance with:

High school completion
GED preparation
College enrollment
Trade schools
Apprenticeship programs
Workforce certification programs

Housing & Community Resource Navigation

Employment success often requires additional supports. We connect participants to:

Housing resources
Transportation assistance
Behavioral health services
Medical care
Financial assistance programs
Community support services

Our Approach

YCR utilizes evidence-based Supported Employment principles that focus on:

Person-Centered Services

Your goals drive the process.

Strength-Based Planning

We focus on your abilities, talents, and interests.

Community Integration

We support participation in competitive, integrated employment settings.

Ongoing Support

Services continue as long as needed to help achieve success.

Recovery-Oriented Care

Employment is viewed as an important component of wellness and recovery.

Benefits of Participation

Participants may:

✔ Gain valuable work experience

✔ Increase self-confidence

✔ Develop independent living skills

✔ Improve financial stability

✔ Build professional networks

✔ Strengthen communication skills

✔ Explore career opportunities

✔ Achieve educational and employment goals

✔ Increase long-term self-sufficiency

Community Partnerships

YCR partners with:

Prince George’s County employers
Workforce development agencies
Educational institutions
Vocational training programs
Behavioral health providers
Community organizations
Apprenticeship programs
Government workforce initiatives

Together, we create pathways to employment and career advancement for youth throughout Prince George’s County.

Referral Information

Who Can Refer?

Referrals are accepted from:

Self-referrals
Parents and caregivers
Schools
Behavioral health providers
Social service agencies
Juvenile justice agencies
Foster care programs
Community organizations

Eligibility

Participants must:

Be between ages 16–25
Reside in Prince George’s County or surrounding areas
Demonstrate a desire to obtain employment, training, or educational advancement
Be willing to participate in individualized planning and support services

Start Your Journey Today

Your future starts with one opportunity.

Whether you are looking for your first job, exploring career options, returning to school, or building a path toward independence, YCR's Supported Employment Program is here to help.

"Building Futures. Creating Opportunities. Empowering Success."