A youth employment program introduced last summer in Tacoma has been awarded a $4,000 grant from the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

Established as a pilot program last June, SummerJobs253 enrolled 50 students attending public high schools in Tacoma. The students worked a total of 160 paid hours each, with the opportunity to earn academic credit. They also participated in the National Endowment for Financial Education High School Financial Planning program. The program, backed by Columbia Bank, included lessons on money management, borrowing, investing, and other relevant topics.

“I am delighted that Tacoma has been recognized for its efforts to create a well-rounded summer employment program that helps prepare local youth for the responsibilities of adulthood,” said Tacoma Mayor Marilyn Strickland. “I look forward to expanding the program this summer and giving more of Tacoma’s youth a chance to participate.”

Recruitment for SummerJobs253 this year will begin in the spring. For more information on how to participate as a financial donor or host employer, contact City of Tacoma Contract and Program Auditor Chris Wright at (253) 591-5075.