To address this need, a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators introduced the Youth Workforce Readiness Act (S. 454) to increase access and opportunities for youth to receive education and training through after-school programs focused on preparing them to enter and thrive in the workforce. 

This critical investment in our nation's youth supports the mission and goals of Big Brothers Big Sisters Of America (BBBS). Specifically, the bill would establish a competitive grant program for national out-of-school time organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters, to fund a variety of workforce readiness and development activities, including: essential-skills development, leadership development, adult mentoring, job training, entrepreneurial skills building, and financial literacy education.

Please reach out to your Senators to urge them to co-sponsor the Youth Workforce Readiness Act, so that youth of all ages can gain the skills needed to enter and thrive in whatever profession they choose.