YouthWorks is more than just a training program—it’s a high school course, a paid internship, and a pathway to professional success. As the only year-long high school internship program in Central Iowa, YouthWorks provides students with hands-on experience, mentorship, and career training that equips them for life beyond graduation.

YouthWorks is all about real-world experience, and that’s where our business partners come in. Local companies open their doors to our interns, providing not just a job but a place to learn, grow, and explore career paths. Each student is paired with a mentor who guides them through the daily ins and outs of the workplace, offering advice, support, and encouragement along the way. Programs like YouthWorks don’t just benefit students with hand-on skills and connections—they strengthen businesses, boost the local economy, and create a more prepared workforce for the future.

A WORK-BASED LEARNING PROGRAM TO SERVE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AND BUSINESSES

 

A PARTNERSHIP WITH:

 
 
 
 

WHO WE ARE

A research-backed, 9-month high school internship program. The first of its kind in Des Moines.

 

WHAT WE DO

Recruit and train high school seniors and match them with professional work experiences.

 
 

 WHY YOU’LL LOVE YOUTHWORKS

YOUNG LOCAL TALENT PIPELINES

ROBUST, ONGOING JOB TRAINING

MENTORING AND POST-HS SUPPORT

9-MONTH PAID INTERNSHIP

 
 

MORE BENEFITS

  1. Get your foot in the door in the professional world

  2. Build your skills at one of Des Moines’ best companies

  3. Gain professional connections and mentors for life

  4. Earn over $7,000 (depending on performance)

  5. Graduate high school with a strong plan for your future!

 

WHY COMPANIES ARE CHOOSING YOUTHWORKS:

  • Interns work up to 650 hours Nov-Aug

  • 60 hours of workforce readiness training prior to placement and weekly throughout the program

  • YouthWorks staff builds a relationship with job partners and interns and facilitates regular communication

  • Project IOWA/YouthWorks is the employer of record, handling admin associated with payroll and providing liability insurance.

  • Build an inclusive work environment and nurture the next generation of talent