Employment Connection is a nonprofit St. Louis community asset that breaks down barriers to self-sufficiency for individuals with limited opportunities including the homeless, ex-offenders, U.S. veterans, high school dropouts, women on welfare, and at-risk youth. Offering more than just a job, Employment Connection provides valuable resources, training, and support to inspire and empower clients to change their circumstances and become employed

Young Adult Workforce Division contracts with the St. Louis area’s agencies that provide services to youth ages 16-21. Our partner agencies place youth in various industries including Construction, Green Technology, and Healthcare.

Registered Apprenticeship is a highly flexible “earn while you learn” training model for employment that pays more as a worker (apprentice) reaches higher productivity levels. In addition to rewarding performance, Registered Apprenticeship combines employer-driven job-related instruction with extensive on-the-job learning under the supervision of a trade professional. After completing a Registered Apprenticeship, the apprentice receives a nationally-recognized occupational credential that communicates the standards and high level of training that their employer provides.

The SkillUP program offers Food Stamp recipients in Missouri the opportunity to gain skills, training or work experience. Classes are offered that work around students’ schedules and can be finished in as little as a few weeks. Employers are waiting to hire students as soon as the training is finished.

SJL provides meaningful summer employment opportunities for qualifying youth. Their goal for the summer of 2019 was to provide 300 eligible youth with the opportunity to receive summer employment and financial literacy.