ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) was joined by Governor J.B. Pritzker today to announce the expansion of the Illinois Department of Human Services’ COVID-19 Summer Youth Employment Program, creating additional employment opportunities for underserved youth in the Rockford area.

“This is an extremely important program. It gives these kids the opportunity to connect with each other and learn new working experience to prepare them for future careers,” Stadelman said. “This program can help level the playing field. It focuses on low-income kids in the community, giving them an opportunity they may have not otherwise had.”

The program will employ young adults between June and August 2020, helping them train for and find work despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. One hundred young adults in the Rockford area will be employed by the Rockford Park District.

“It’s great to see the impact our summer youth program is making here in Rockford,” Pritzker said. “Providing the start of careers and learning essential skills is a whole new level of impact for our youth.”

The Rockford Park District is placing youth employees in age, ability, and experience appropriate work-based learning opportunities, while offering career development. Available jobs incorporate nearly all areas of park district operations, including Lockwood Park, Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, and five public golf courses.

The Rockford Park District is one of 30 youth employment providers and will receive $500,000 to employ 100 area youth over the next three months.