FLINT, Mich. — With youth disconnection on the rise, a population that’s getting older and has less formal education, Youth Solutions stands on the forefront to combat the issues facing Michigan through their leading program, Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates
(JMG).
After a record-breaking year serving 5,041 youth throughout Michigan, Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates, greatly exceeded national goal standards set by Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG). This milestone reflects JMG’s dedication to helping young people stay engaged and identify a pathway for postsecondary success while overcoming individual barriers.
Youth Solutions, a nonprofit organization operating at the intersection of education and workforce development, recently announced their local JMG programs in the GST Michigan Works! region achieved remarkable outcomes. The JMG programs at Family Literacy Center, GST Michigan Works! Flint Service Center, Hamady High School, Southwestern Classical Academy, and Vassar High School exceeded these metrics, serving 480+ youth and averaging a remarkable 100% graduation rate among program completers, with 81% securing employment and 70% enrolling in post-secondary education.
“These outcomes are particularly significant given Michigan’s current youth disconnection rate, which stands at 16.9% for the 12 months ending in July 2024—the highest rate since January 2022 and above the national average,” said Roger Curtis, executive director of Youth Solutions. “By equipping youth with the skills and
opportunities they need, JMG programs are playing a critical role in keeping youth engaged in education and employment and addressing the labor force challenges in our communities.”
“We can’t say enough about the great work going on in our community through the JMG programs! Students are engaged and working hard to create successful futures for themselves and their families,” said Jody Kerbyson, chief executive officer at GST Michigan Works!
Youth Solutions, the state-based affiliate of the national JAG organization, is aimed at providing Michigan’s youth with the support and experiences that prepare them for their futures. Youth Solutions strives to ensure every youth in Michigan has access to career-focused education and graduates with a plan for postsecondary success. Since 2008, Youth Solutions has impacted youth, ages 11-24, across Michigan. For more information about Youth Solutions, Inc. or to become a partner, visit www.ouryouthsolutions.org, follow them on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter or “like” them on Facebook at @JobsforMichigansGraduates & @YouthSolutions.
