This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.

View Privacy Policy

Got it

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.

View Privacy Policy

Got it

Apply now

Fill out this form, and we will forward your information to the hiring manager!

Cover letter*
You've successfully applied for this job!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Apply now

Fill out this form, and we will forward your information to the hiring manager!

Cover letter*
You've successfully applied for this job!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Santa Barbara County Summer Youth Empowerment and Employment Program

Dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals seeking youth-focused community work experience.
See Jobs

Santa Barbara County Summer Youth Empowerment
and Employment Program

Dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals seeking youth-focused community work experience.
See Jobs
"Breaking Barriers isn't just a program; it's a lifeline. I was grappling with doubts and uncertainties until I found this incredible opportunity. Now, I'm not just working; I'm thriving. The support, training, and mentorship have been invaluable. It's not only about the paycheck—it's about breaking through barriers and realizing the boundless possibilities ahead. Grateful for this transformative journey!"

Noah, 20
See Jobs

Brought to you by:

Brought to you by:

About This Program

In the Breaking Barriers Program, our mission is simple yet powerful: to be your go-to support system, providing the services and guidance needed to kickstart your journey into the workforce. Together with the Santa Barbara County Workforce Development Board (SBCWDB) and Managed Career Solutions (MCS), we're making big dreams a reality. If you are 16-24 years old and ready to work this is your chance to gain hands-on work experience, earn some cash, build your resume, and kickstart your career journey. Our vision is simple: let's break down barriers and help you gain real-world experience in the workforce. After all, when you set up a generation of young adults to succeed, an entire community thrives!

Program Benefits

Young Adult Participants
(16-24 yr olds)

  • Gain hands-on work experience in a field or setting that is a work interest
  • Earn wages ($17.05) while completing paid work experience to build out your resume
  • Build relationships in the community and gain new connections
  • Complete empowerment training and learn valuable life skills
  • Receive mentoring and navigation for program services
  • Access support services, such as transportation assistance while enrolled in the program.

Employers

  • Once established and approved as a program worksite, employers can host one or more youth workers to complete eligible work tasks
  • Assign work schedules around shifts that are best for your company.
  • Youth can be assigned for up to 300 hours based on your needs
  • Save money on payroll while allowing the youth to gain work experience before considering hiring workers without grant subsidies

Job Openings

Are you 16-24 years old and looking for work experience? Explore our job openings and click APPLY to fill out a contact form for the position.  If these jobs aren't the right fit, scroll down to Looking For A Job and send us your contact information to be notified about other local opportunities.

Business Analyst

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

React JS

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

IT

TestTest description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

Cashier

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

Business Analyst

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

React JS

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

IT

TestTest description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

Cashier

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

Business Analyst

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

React JS

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

IT

TestTest description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

Cashier

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

Business Analyst

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

React JS

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

IT

TestTest description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

Cashier

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

Business Analyst

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

React JS

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

IT

TestTest description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

Cashier

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

Business Analyst

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

React JS

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

IT

TestTest description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

Cashier

Test description
Location: 
Test description
Apply Now

Looking for Work Experience?

Click here to complete your information and reach out to us today to kickstart your work experience journey!
Start here

Employers, Need to Post a Job?

Enter information about the job you wish to post and a team member will contact you before publishing live in our Job Board in the next 3-5 business days.
Submit Job

Testimonials

"I felt stuck and worried about the future, but this program helped me not just gain work experience but also the confidence to believe in my potential. Now I'm earning money AND building skills and experience for my resume. I’m so grateful!"
Emily, 19
"The Breaking Barriers team connected me with a great worksite and I’m learning so much! I’ve had training and now have a mentor and a whole support system. It's not just about a paycheck,  it's about breaking free from limitations and realizing I have a choice over my future."
Javier, 17
"Before enrolling in the Breaking Barriers program, I was uncertain about my direction. This program became my compass, leading me to understand a career pathway that aligns with my passion. It's not just about earning; it's about discovering my potential. The confidence I've gained and the skills I've developed are shaping a future I'm excited about. Thank you, Breaking Barriers team, for illuminating the path to my dreams!"
Mia, 18
Why is the program called Summer Youth Employment Program if it’s not summer right now?

The grant funded  program was originally designed to take place from May-August, to align with the summer months and school break, however the program is available now until grant funding concludes.  

How do I qualify for this program? What are the requirements?

Be a youth resident aged 16-24 (at the time of enrollment) of Santa Barbara County that is disconnected from the education system or employment. Eligible youth may also be at risk of disconnection, have previous or current justice involvement and or may have a disability.

What is Paid Work Experience? 

It is very similar to a paid internship. Eligible youth participants will work closely with their assigned case manager for individualized placement with a local employer for a set number of hours. Eligible participants earn an hourly wage for all hours worked. 

Am I eligible if I am still in school? 

You may be eligible if you meet other eligibility criteria. Please contact us for eligibility verification. 

Do I need to be a US citizen or permanent resident?  

You may be eligible if you meet other eligibility criteria. Please contact us for eligibility verification. 

How is my information shared?

It is only collected for grant purposes, including eligibility determination. Information is stored securely and never shared outside of grant purposes. If you are interested in being featured as a success story your first name and photo may be shared with grant funders only with your written permission.

What is Empowerment Training?

The Program consists of inclusive socio-cultural, mental health trauma informed supportive programming for youth to participate. It is a required training and youth are paid for their time in participation.

Are there any additional resources?

Yes, you may be eligible for additional services if you meet other eligibility criteria. Please contact us for more information.

Where do I have to live to join this program?

While SYEEP will serve all of Santa Barbara County it was intentionally designed to prioritize service to North SBC communities (Santa Maria, Guadalupe, Lompoc and Buellton).

What is Empowerment Week?

Training Program before PWEX, youth participants can help begin the healing process from

trauma and stress related to racial, ethnic and socio-economic adverse experiences and provide

tools for better managing and navigating life challenges. A significant amount of time will be spent throughout the participant’s experience to develop and strengthen self-esteem and self-worth so that meaningful life changes made during the program by the participant can be sustained, including the continuation to unsubsidized employment.

About the Grant

The Breaking Barriers Program is also called locally the Summer Youth Employment Empowerment Program (SYEEP) The Breaking Barriers grant funding is made possible by The Foundation for California Community Colleges in collaboration with the California Workforce Development Board. The funding originates from AB628, the Breaking Barriers to Employment Initiative, with a mission to ensure individuals from specific target populations receive essential supplemental, supportive, remedial, and wraparound services. These services pave the way for successful entry, participation, and completion of workforce and education programs, leading to retention and advancement in the labor market.

The Breaking Barriers to Employment Initiative, locally called SYEEP, takes a groundbreaking approach, combining innovative strategies with proven practices to tackle racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in the labor market. It is specifically tailored for the youth in North Santa Barbara County who are at risk of disconnection or are currently disconnected from the education system or employment. The aim is to redefine opportunities and provide comprehensive support to empower young individuals in their journey towards a successful and fulfilling future.
This initiative takes a groundbreaking approach, combining innovative strategies with proven practices to tackle racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in the labor market. It is specifically tailored for the youth in North Santa Barbara County who are at risk of disconnection or currently disconnected from the education system or employment. The aim is to redefine opportunities and provide comprehensive support to empower these young individuals in their journey towards a successful and fulfilling future.

More About Us

The Santa Barbara County Workforce Development Board (SBCWDB) and Managed Career Solutions (MCS) have partnered to lead the Breaking Barriers Initiative, SYEEP, united by the mission to "break barriers" and create opportunities for youth in Santa Barbara County. SBCWDB, a public/private partnership formed under the Federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), is committed to closing the unemployment gap by aligning job seekers' skills with the demands of employers. With a focus on training and resources for youth, adults, and dislocated workers, SBCWDB plays a pivotal role in empowering the local community. In collaboration, MCS, a privately held Social Purpose Corporation, brings its expertise in Workforce Development Services to the table, operating the America's Job Centers of California, in partnership with SBCWDB in both Santa Maria and Santa Barbara.Led by SBCWDB, the project strategically augments existing programs like WIOA Youth and Adult/Dislocated Worker initiatives without duplication. At its core, the SYEEP is tailored to meet the diverse needs of disconnected youth across Santa Barbara County while concurrently offering vital support to local businesses and employers. Geographically, the initiative places emphasis on serving North Santa Barbara County communities like Santa Maria, Guadalupe, Lompoc, and Buellton. However, its scope is inclusive, enrolling eligible youth residents county-wide and welcoming employers from across the County. This collaborative effort exemplifies a comprehensive approach to breaking barriers and fostering economic growth.

Led by SBCWDB, the project strategically augments existing programs like WIOA Youth and Adult/Dislocated Worker initiatives without duplication. At its core is the Summer Youth Empowerment and Employment Program (SYEEP), tailored to meet the diverse needs of disconnected youth across Santa Barbara County while concurrently offering vital support to local businesses and employers. Geographically, the initiative places emphasis on serving North Santa Barbara County communities like Santa Maria, Guadalupe, Lompoc, and Buellton. However, its scope is inclusive, enrolling eligible youth residents county-wide and welcoming employers from across the County. This collaborative effort exemplifies a comprehensive approach to breaking barriers and fostering economic growth.