Empowering Oakland Youth Since 1973

Helping young people overcome barriers through job training, education, and real work experience.

Every year, YEP helps more than 600 youth gain skills, confidence, and stability on their path to independence.

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Job Training

Education

Work Experience

Real Impact

last year in wages and incentives earned by youth

trainees have received YEP's workforce training

of trainees placed in jobs or education

Job Training

YEP provides a range of job training opportunities for young people ages 14 to 24.

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Job Placement

YEP does more than simply place youth and young adults in jobs. We connect our clients to the future they want.

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Education

With each degree earned, employment opportunities multiply. That’s why all programs support educational attainment.

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Housing & Support

We offer transitional housing and comprehensive support services and referrals to help youth keep on a positive path.

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Thank you for a fantastic summer!

For most Oakland high school students, their first day at school was August 10. Participants in Oakland Summer Rising, Team Oakland, and Career Try-Out learned how to show up, on time, ready to contribute and engage. Thanks to new individual donors, the City of Oakland, Alameda County Supervisor Lena Tam, vocational trainers, and every worksite supervisor across the Town. Oakland youth are more than ready for this school year because of YOU. Thank you!

Our Mission

Our mission is to enhance the employment and educational opportunities of Oakland youth and young adults impacted by poverty, the foster care and criminal justice systems, school underachievement, and lack of work experience by providing job training, job placement, hands-on education, and comprehensive support services.

Read our 50th Anniversary Impact Report (PDF)

Support Oakland Youth - Donate Today

Education, combined with work experience and a career trajectory, provides the surest path out of poverty. A gift to YEP is an investment in the future of Oakland, and in our most promising youth and young adults.