PRESS RELEASE

Long Beach, CA – The City of Long Beach Economic Development Department (Department) is seeking businesses and nonprofits throughout Long Beach and Signal Hill to help support the next generation of workers by partnering with its work experience programs for young people. These programs empower youth to gain real-world work experience and contribute to a stronger, more resilient economy and provide opportunities for all. Businesses selected to become a participating worksite will support Long Beach youth through jobs, mentorship and training—all at no cost to their business.

"By investing in our young people today, we are cultivating the workforce that will drive our city forward tomorrow,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “Long Beach is committed to nurturing the talent we have right here at home, providing career pathways and opportunities for practical work experiences that empower youth to unlock their full potential and see their dreams become a reality.”

Facilitated by the Department’s Long Beach Workforce Innovation Network (LBWIN) Youth Career Services Center, formerly known as Future LB, youth work programs are available for young people ages 14 to 30. Youth can be placed in diverse roles and industry sectors, such as healthcare, information technology, hospitality and public service. Youth participants are compensated an hourly wage for work experience, personal enrichment training and professional development activities. Wages and workers’ compensation insurance are paid through the programs so there is no cost to participating businesses. Businesses are required to meet certain insurance and safety requirements. Local businesses are encouraged to sign up to become a worksite for youth by completing an online Worksite Interest Form.

“Here in Long Beach, we’re developing homegrown talent and ensuring that all young people have access to meaningful opportunities,” said Economic Development Director Bo Martinez. “Now more than ever, we’re encouraging our local businesses to open their doors and embrace the next generation of Long Beach workers.”

The work experience programs for youth are made possible through the support of several key funding sources, including the City’s General Fund allocation, Los Angeles County’s Youth@Work Program, California Volunteers, Office of the Governor #CaliforniansForAII Youth Jobs Corps initiative, Hilton Foundation and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. Together, these partners are investing in the future of young people by providing meaningful work experience, career exploration opportunities and skill development that prepares youth for success in the workforce.

Over the past year, the Department has provided more than 876 youth with paid work experience opportunities, including internships and work-based learning activities through initiatives such as the Long Beach Public Service Corps Program and Space Beach Camp.

For additional information about youth employment services, those interested may visit the Department’s website at longbeach.gov/youthservices or contact the LBWIN Youth Career Services Center at 562.570.4700.

About the City of Long Beach
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture, and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, the award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach.

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. For more information about the Long Beach Economic Development Department, visit longbeach.gov/ed, follow on Facebook, X and Instagram. Stay up to date on business news by signing up for the City’s Business Brief.