Faces of Chicago Youth Works this summer
Axios
Last updated: July 22, 2026
This summer, young people in Chicago are engaging in a diverse range of work experiences through the Chicago Youth Works program. These opportunities span various industries, providing valuable real-world exposure and skill development. The initiative highlights the breadth of activities available to youth, from professional fields to hands-on practical skills.
- The Chicago Youth Works program has placed young individuals in summer jobs across a wide spectrum of sectors. These include roles in real estate, offering insights into property markets and transactions. Political internships are also available, allowing youth to understand the workings of government and civic engagement.
- Beyond professional and political fields, participants are gaining practical experience in areas such as cooking, where they learn culinary arts and kitchen management. Gardening opportunities focus on urban agriculture, sustainability, and food production. Additionally, some youth are gaining exposure to the healthcare sector, contributing to patient care and administrative tasks within medical settings.
- These varied experiences aim to provide Chicago's youth with exposure to different career paths and develop essential soft skills. The program underscores the importance of providing young people with structured summer employment that can contribute to their future academic and professional trajectories.
